Elgin County Pride! by Peri Hayes Devon Church and Neil Hubert beam with joy while discussing Elgin County Pride. Devon, involved for over five years, and Neil having joined in 2023, detail the ways in which the St. Thomas- Elgin Rainbow Alliance brought Elgin County Pride to fruition alongside the formerly active and notably contributive Martin Withenshaw. Presently with four members in leadership, Neil describes, “We have a solid team, and we all want to own it. We are equals.” Neil’s participation was inspired by the non-profit organization’s Queer Prom. Their third execution of this event was recently celebrated and an evident success, with 65 students in attendance. Devon expresses, “These kids are going to remember this for the rest of their lives; some of them met their best friend that night.” Moreover, Mrs. Chastity Cage brought vibrancy into the venue with a captivating performance of “Pink Pony Club”. For their several years facilitating this event in partnership with YWCA St. Thomas-Elgin, the team has collaborated with core volunteers and powerful allies. “This is a safe space in a secure location,” Neil highlights. “I want to create an event for these kids that we can hand to them. For ages 14 to 19, everyone is welcome.” “Representation is huge,” Devon voices. “We both grew up here and didn’t have these resources. I really get excited about creating this space for our youth.” To this, Neil adds, “It’s about celebrating diversity and fostering connection; when people come together and be who they want to be. We are celebrating chosen family.” The Gender Equality Coalition of Ontario’s Rainbow Connections significantly contributes to the Queer Prom, as emphasized by Devon and Neil, along with Harvest Hands supplying their abundant door prizes. As well, Wellkin Child and Youth Mental Wellness beautifully curated their dedicated zone for zen in the yoga room. While reflecting on the incredible support, Neil shares with tears in his eyes, “There was a lot of positive energy in the space. The parking lot was filled with parents picking up their children.” The team is currently seeking a Social Media Manager, which will be a beneficial position for a student collecting high school volunteer hours. Furthermore, upcoming this July 26th is Pride in the Park. Queer community members and allies are welcome to email elgincountypride@gmail.com for oppor- tunities at this event involving food truck endeavours, per-
forming, volunteering, or participating as a vendor at Char- lie’s Market. Queer Club is held at the YWCA St. Thomas-Elgin every Tuesday, alternating between ages 12 to 18 and the adult group.. For information, visit the Elgin County Pride Facebook page and the elgincountypride.com website.
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Hometown St. Thomas • July-August 2025 • Page 3
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