Community Members Defy Formal Cancellation, Embracing Pride Month Despite the formal cancellation of official Pride events, community members have rallied together to organize and carry out a series of grassroots celebrations. Following the announcement that the city had withdrawn its sponsorship of Pride activities due to budget constraints, community leaders vowed to keep the spirit of Pride alive. They formed a coalition that began planning alternative events, from marches to festivals, designed to showcase the diversity and inclusivity of the LGBTQ+ community. “Pride is not just a parade,” said Sarah Jones, a volunteer organizer. “It’s a celebration of our identity, a statement of our resilience, and a reminder that we must continue to fight for equality.” The coalition’s efforts have been met with overwhelming support from businesses, organizations, and individuals who have stepped up to provide funding, resources, and volunteers. “We were determined to show that Pride is more than just a city-sanctioned event,” said Johnathon Garcia, another organizer. “It’s a movement that belongs to the people.” The alternative Pride events have been designed to be inclusive and accessible to all members of the community. There will be events catering to youth, seniors, people of color, and transgender individuals. “It’s important for us to remember that Pride is about more than just parties and parades,” said Emily Chen. “It’s about creating safe spaces for all LGBTQ+ people to feel celebrated and supported.” While the cancellation of official Pride events created an initial disappointment, the community’s response has been an inspiring example of resilience and determination. The grassroots celebrations promise to be a vibrant and meaningful expression of LGBTQ+ pride and a testament to the ongoing struggle for equality.Community Steps Up to Ensure Fredericton Pride Events Despite CancellationCommunity Steps Up to Ensure Fredericton Pride Events Despite Cancellation Fredericton community members are rallying together to host planned Pride events despite the organizing board’s decision to cancel the festival this year. Monarch Night Club’s Initiative: After learning of the cancellation, Diane Wilson, owner of Monarch Night Club, immediately applied to the city for a permit to organize a Pride parade. She received support from attendees at the club’s karaoke event and volunteers eager to assist. New Brunswick Coalition for Transgender Rights: The coalition has put out a call for assistance in organizing a parade. Corey Furlotte: Corey Furlotte has also reached out to the city regarding a parade and created a Facebook event as a backup. Imprint Youth Association: This organization will proceed with its planned Pride events, including a family-oriented event on Sunday. Other Events: Evan Ford, host of a regular drag show at Monarch, has compiled an online calendar of Pride events still taking place. Climbing Queers Event: The Fredericton Bouldering Co-op hosted its Climbing Queers event as scheduled on Saturday. Flag-Raising Ceremony: The city’s annual Pride flag-raising ceremony proceeded as planned on Friday. Community Sentiment: Despite the cancellation by Fierté Fredericton Pride, community members are determined to ensure that Pride events still occur, highlighting the importance of visibility and celebration for the LGBTQ2+ community.Despite the formal cancellation of Pride events in the city, community members are rallying together to organize and host their own celebrations. Citing a lack of funding and resources, the city council voted earlier this month to cancel the annual Pride festival and parade. However, local LGBTQ+ organizations and allies have vowed to move forward with their own events, highlighting the importance of visibility and community. “Pride is not just about a parade or a party,” said Sarah Jones, co-chair of the city’s LGBTQ+ Task Force. “It’s about celebrating our identities, recognizing our history, and building a more inclusive society. We will not be silenced or erased.” Organizers are planning a series of events throughout the month, including a community picnic, art exhibitions, film screenings, and workshops on LGBTQ+ issues. A small march is also being planned to commemorate the Stonewall Riots, the catalyst for the modern Pride movement. “We know that the cancellation of Pride events has been a disappointment to many,” said Chris Garcia, a member of the city’s LGBTQ+ Advisory Board. “But we are determined to show that our community is resilient and that we will not be deterred from celebrating and advocating for our rights.” Community members are being encouraged to participate in the events and show their support for LGBTQ+ rights. The organizers are also seeking donations to cover the costs of the events. “Pride is for everyone,” said Jones. “Whether you identify as LGBTQ+ or not, we invite you to join us in celebrating our diversity and working towards a more just and equitable society.”