A look in from Monday's flag raising event in North Battleford. (Martin Martinson/battlefordsNOW Staff)

By Martin Martinson

Pride Week Underway

North Battleford kicks off Pride Week with flag raising ceremony

Jul 24, 2023 | 2:33 PM

The City of North Battleford held a flag raising ceremony Monday at City Hall, to signal the start of Pride Week in the community, July 24-30.

Featuring dignitaries from the city and members of Battlefords Pride, as well as those from the public on hand, the celebration included words from Mayor David Gillan who also read the city council’s proclamation, and spoke to the importance of making the city a welcoming place for all.

“It’s really important and it’s a privilege actually to be raising the flag today,” Gillan said. “We really do encourage diversity in our city and this is just proving we believe in diversity and inclusivity in our city and everyone belonging and feeling welcome and safe in our city.”

Public and intergovernmental relations coordinator with the city, Candace Toma, added that to see so many out showing their support for the event and upcoming pride festivities was also encouraging.

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“To have such a great turnout and have such a good community-minded group here to support it really makes all the difference in the world and helps us be as diverse and friendly and welcoming as possible,” she said.

There will be events Monday to Sunday to celebrate Pride Week, including: Free disc golf Monday night at Centennial Park, Karaoke Tuesday at the Downstairs Bar (Portabella Restaurant), Free swimming lessons Wednesday at the Battlefords Aquatic Centre, a 19+ drag show Thursday at the Playhouse Theatre in Battleford, and Drag Royalty Story Hour and Magic Show on Friday at the NB Public Library.

Saturday will feature Circus Fun in Kinsmen Park with face paint, food vendors and live entertainment. The event will conclude on Sunday with a walk/ride parade people can join on their bikes or on foot.

Secretary of Battlefords Pride Kelly Waters was on hand Monday to join the mayor in raising the pride flag, and spoke to the value of having the city’s support for their Pride festivities each year.

“It means a lot to see the community leaders stand up and support diversity in the community,” Waters said. “We’re just super excited to get so much support. It’s been our biggest year for getting financial support and with that, it makes it possible to offer all these free events and bigger splash events.”

For more information on these events and Battlefords Pride, visit the group’s Facebook page.

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Martin.Martinson@pattisonmedia.com

On Twitter: @MartyMartyPxP1