Pride Week in Grande Prairie just celebrated the long-standing tradition of repainting the rainbow crosswalk near Montrose Cultural Centre.
Grande Prairie Pride Society President Erica Fisher describes the day as one that the society looks forward to all year, as the painting marks an important reminder of inclusivity and celebration in Grande Prairie.
“This is done thanks to the help of so many volunteers, we have so many sponsors from the community who help sponsor the cost of the paint, we have volunteers who come by to roll the paint, and we have great city staff who help facilitate that for us,” she says.
This year is special as the Pride Society celebrates the eighth year of the tradition with a second rainbow crosswalk painting.
Fisher adds that the event is always well attended, which she describes as “wonderful to see” when so many residents come out to support pride in Grande Prairie.
“I actually don’t think I’ve painted at all over the past few years because everyone else does all the work, I just get to hang out and enjoy,” she says. “It’s really special to see so many people support the crosswalk.”
Additionally, Fisher says she sees the crosswalk as “more than just a rainbow,” as it acts as a symbol of inclusivity, diversity, and hope in Grande Prairie.
“It’s more than just a rainbow, it’s a symbol that our city is welcoming, inclusive, and diverse, everyone in our city matters,” she says. “It’s just a beautiful symbol here in our community.”
Last weekend marked the kickoff of Pride in Grande Prairie with two events- the Rainbow Bright Teen Dance, and the Party in White, and the festivities are scheduled throughout the rest of the week, finishing off with the Pride Family Carnival on June 8th at Eastlink Centre.
