“Keep it in the bedroom.” “Keep it away from my kids.” “I just don’t understand why they need to shove it in our faces?!” “You’ll all go to hell.” “Groomers.”
These hurtful comments are far too frequently found in social media comment sections, and sadly thought by too many, in a society that is otherwise known for being tolerant of diversity, if not outright celebratory. In Canada, the right to freedom from discrimination on the basis of sexuality and gender identity has been enshrined in our Charter since 1995 - 30 years - and marriage equality became law ten years later, in 2005. But many old attitudes persist, buttressed by beliefs in “alternative facts” and perpetuated by institutions with something to gain from the oppression of queer people. Many still believe that sexual and gender diversity is a threat to the established social order, and they are right: queerness challenges patriarchy and the power that comes from social and sexual repression. Though the modern Pride movement began just over 50 years ago, we know that difference from the ‘norm’ of heterosexuality has always existed and that gender roles and identities have shifted throughout human history.
On Thursday, July 3rd, 2025, Annapolis Royal Pride invites our community - all members, including allies and those who do not understand what the Pride movement is about (but want to) - to gather and share stories and perspectives, in order to increase our understanding and break down the barriers that keep us divided and perpetuate hate. This event is an opportunity to reflect on the reasons why we continue to celebrate progress, resist attacks on our rights, and persist in our efforts to dream of a truly free and equal society, and to celebrate the magic and beauty of love and creativity in all its forms!
FREE / ALL AGES / CATERED RECEPTION TO FOLLOW
CONVERSATION STARTERS
We have invited a few individuals to share some thoughts and experiences with the room in order to get the conversation started.
Thomas Waugh (he/him) is Distinguished Professor Emeritus, School of Cinema, Concordia University, where he taught film studies, sexuality and queer studies for 41 years. Teacher, programmer, writer, critic, and activist, he has produced 14 books, including 5 volumes on queer porn (1996-2007). Founder of the Concordia AIDS Project/Community Lecture Series on HIV/AIDS (1993-2018), & Queer Media Database Canada Quebec (2006+), he is also co-editor of the ongoing Queer Film Classics books series, and spends every Tuesday night in Montreal's "Colonial" steambath with his chosen family.
Braden Alexander (he/him) is a poet, potions-maker, forager, and soul counsellor. He creates rituals, ceremonies, and sanctuary spaces for exploring the mysteries of queer love and pleasure. He is also the creator of Soft Gaze, a Substack publication where he explores the realms of sexuality, spirituality, and a sensual relationship to nature.
Sue Littleton (she/her) is the co-owner of the Bees Knees General Store and Bakery in Lawrencetown, NS.
The discussion will be moderated by Annapolis Royal Pride President Cameron Stiff.