First-ever pride march held in Moose Jaw

A little bit of history was made in Moose Jaw early Saturday afternoon.

About 100 people took part in the city’s first-ever pride march through Crescent Park. Many dressed in brightly-coloured shirts and some wore costumes as they marched on a windy day.
 
But the cool weather did nothing to stop the smiles and cheering. Dozens of people held signs showing support, while rainbow flags were waving high and proud as the group wound its way through the park.
 
“It’s beautiful. It’s absolutely beautiful,” said Joe Wickenhauser, chair of Moose Jaw Pride.
 
Wickenhauser says he believes there has always been support in the community – they just needed a venue.
 
“I think it was just a matter of letting people know that we’re here, we’re celebrating pride,” he explained. “And people are just joining us as they find out.”
 
This is the third year a pride week has been held in Moose Jaw, and it has expanded to include 14 different events. Wickenhauser said they’ve seen an incredible rise in support over the years.
 
That sentiment was echoed by another member of the organizing committee, Jenn New.
 
“I’m blown away, I’m so excited at the turnout,” she exclaimed. “It’s just incredible.”
 
She says people came from all over the province, including Regina, Saskatoon and even a couple from Montreal. Both New and Wickenhauser say this is a great first step, but note there’s still a lot of work to be done.
 
“There’s workplaces that need diversity training (and) gender markers on government-issued ID is still a big concern,” explained Wickenhauser.
 
He says other improvements can be made in health care and nursing homes, adding schools also need to have gay-straight alliances.
 
But it was still a jubilant crowd on Saturday, celebrating just how far they’ve come, and the small steps forward .
 
At the same time, New knows not everyone understands what they’re trying to do. But she says it’s all about coming together, promoting tolerance and acceptance.
 
“I have the same heart as you, you have the same heart as me,” she said. “Let’s join together in our similarities and work together with our differences.”
 
BKnight@rawlco.com
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