Rural communities around Hamilton celebrate Pride Month

June is Pride Month and that means festivals and events to celebrate diversity will be taking place in communities all across the globe.

While big cities have been known to host pride events in the past, they are popping up in smaller communities including Binbrook.

The organizers of Binbrook Pride say while the weather did keep some people away, it was still important to show up and celebrate.

“There is a need in rural areas for more support, more acceptance,” said Cohen Glaw, the events founder.

“This will help educate people, bring acceptance, and give a place for those in the community to come and feel safe and enjoy themselves.”

Binbrook Pride started as a small get-together a few years back, but because of high demand, it turned into a full festival.

The first year of Binbrook Pride saw a group of 30 people. Last year that number grew to around 400. Unfortunately, this year’s turnout wasn’t as big due to the rainy weather.

“I’m also from a smaller town, I don’t even think we have a pride there,” Vanessa Medina, a community member, said.

“This is my community, it’s necessary, just to support the more rural community — I love it.”

READ MORE: Queer Gaming Hamilton Pride Event

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