Brock University is preparing an array of events to take part in the global celebration of Pride Month.

Throughout the month of June, the Brock community is invited to participate in activities that will educate and entertain the University’s Two-Spirit, and lesbian, gay, bisexual, trans and queer (2SLGBTQ+) communities and their allies.

This year’s programming will begin Thursday, June 1 with the Speaking with Pride event hosted by Pride Niagara and Brock University Professional and Continuing Studies. The 1.5-hour event will provide an education session for 2SLGBTQ+ positive organizations who want to enhance and/or improve their equity, diversity, inclusion and belonging practices as well as individuals who want to inspire change in their workplace.

A ceremony for the raising of Brock’s all-inclusive flag will take place later that day, along with nearly a dozen events throughout the rest of the month.

Among the offerings will be a history of drag and makeup tutorial on Thursday, June 15 and the Pride House social and open mic night Wednesday, June 21.

While the University also hosts Pride Week in the Winter Term when many students are still on campus, Brock’s Pride Month Chair and Student Justice Education Co-ordinator Rabia Choudhary said the June celebrations allow for additional community connections and support.

“Celebrating during Pride Month and participating in community festivities is crucial as it embraces love, diversity and acceptance for all members of the 2SLGBTQ+ community,” she said. “By joyously uniting with others, we honour the rich 2SLGBTQ+ history, uplift marginalized voices, and create a vibrant space at Brock and in Niagara that fosters lasting community bonds, friendships and beautiful memories.”

Eve Nyambiya, Pride Committee Member and Brock’s Gender and Sexual Violence Education Co-ordinator, said the month is also a call to action for allies.

“Saying ‘love is love’ is simply not enough when members of the 2SLGBTQ+ community are facing social and political violence around the world, from violent protests at drag events to legislation banning gender-affirmative care,” she said. “We have to recognize that we all have a role to play in ensuring a safe and equitable society. This programming not only celebrates queer identity but also allows members of our community to hold themselves accountable.”

For a developing list of Pride Month events hosted by Brock, visit the HRE website.