Provincial Government to Mark Pride Week 2013

The Provincial Government is once again joining community groups in celebrating Pride Week in Newfoundland and Labrador from July 15 to 21.

“Each year, the number of events for Pride Week continues to increase as we all work together to help ensure equality for all members of our society,” said the Honourable Charlene Johnson, Minister Responsible for the Status of Women and lead minister for the Violence Prevention Initiative. “Our government remains committed to celebrating and embracing the diversity of all people in the province, including lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender individuals. We are pleased to mark another year of celebration within the LGBT community and join with our partners to wish everyone a safe and happy Pride Week.”

On behalf of Minister Johnson, the Honourable Tom Hedderson, Minister of Environment and Conservation will attend the flag-raising ceremony at St. John’s City Hall beginning at 1:00 p.m., Monday, July 15 to officially kick-off the week’s festivities. Other events happening during the week include an education day on campus at Memorial University, youth bowling, a discussion panel, and a bonfire. The annual Pride Parade is scheduled to get underway from Bannerman Park at 1:00 p.m., Saturday, July 20. For more information and a complete listing of events in St. John’s, please visit www.stjohnspride.org or follow them on twitter @StJohnsPrideNL .

"This year at St. John's Pride Inc., our theme is Community,” said Noah Davis-Power, President of St. John’s Pride Inc. “We are pleased to have the continued support of the Provincial Government, and are proud to say that we live in the most progressive province in Canada with respect to LGBT equality and diversity. Together we will continue to work towards creating a community of acceptance and understanding, and we thank the government for their commitment to diversity."

Pride Week activities in other areas of the province are run by similar groups, community organizations, student unions, not-for-profit groups, volunteer groups and local businesses.

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2013 07 12                           2:10 p.m.