Flag recognizes Prince Albert’s transgender people

The theme this year is “Unity,” which is especially meaningful for people like Araveen Ethier who have struggled with gender identity and decided to be open about being transgender.

Ethier attended the flag raising, and was one of many who helped hoist the rainbow flag, along with a second flag.

She’s lived in Prince Albert for more than 17 years, but didn’t come out until later in life.

“I met a lot of people and made a whole lot more friends,” Ethier said of that experience.

She acknowledges the transgender community in Prince Albert is not as open as in other cities.

“It feels like there’s not enough people who are more out, and more willing to feel that freedom like I have felt.”

But Ethier said she can empathize with those who are more shielded.

“I can understand the fear of having people stare at you, and talk about you behind your back. And you know, yell, and say, you know, really hurtful things. And the thought of even leaving the house or getting hurt in any way, it’s sort of scary to come out.”

She said she hasn’t had anything of that nature happen in recent months, which is encouraging.

Events like Monday’s flag raising makes Ethier “feel like I’m a part of something,” she said.

On Tuesday, the Q-Network will host a potluck and sharing circle in which aboriginal two-spirited people will share their stories.

A discussion circle is set for Wednesday, a mini film festival on Thursday, and a parade and festival on Saturday.

For a full list of locations and times of the week’s events, check out their Facebook page.

claskowski@jpbg.ca

by Chelsea Laskowski

Flag recognizes Prince Albert’s transgender people

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