(Drag Queen Storytime. Credit: Wortley Pride Website)
Wortley Pride is a volunteer-run, family-friendly celebration for 2SLGBTQIA+ communities and their allies in the heart of Wortley Village in London, Ontario held on the second Saturday in June.
During last year´s festival, everything was fine until protesters showed up angry because Drag Queen Storytime was taking place; a space that consisted of reading stories to children about self-love and acceptance. To maintain it and avoid interruptions by the activists, the community formed a human chain around the performance area while the children sat on the grass and listened.
“In 2023 we faced some more hate rhetoric. It was an individual protest very loudly. We drove around the square and tried to offset the event and because we were there to celebrate love in our authentic selves, it didn’t impact the overall festival. It was a fantastic day,” says Kathy Bell, Wortley Pride Founder and President.
(Credit: Wortley Pride)
Organizers are aware that there may be people planning to protest the event again, but they want to make sure they address it in the best way so that the celebration is carried out peacefully for everybody.
“My main priority is that everyone who attends this year feels safe and protected. We have partnered with the London Police Services and they will be on-site. We also have additional people who will be on-site and will support any needs should arise,” Bell adds.
(Credit: Wortley Pride)
This year, over 80 vendors and local entrepreneurs will be present and ready for business booths at 10:00 a.m. The main stage events start at 11:00 a.m. and run till 5:00 p.m. “We are hosting a drag story time. Different drag performers will be on stage.”
“What’s new for 2024 with Wortley Pride is we are making sure that we cater everything to all ages. Anyone of any age can come and attend this event and feel included and valued as a member of the 2SLGBTQIA+ community. This is a safe, authentic space for everyone, and it’s important that we have these safe spaces that are all alcohol-free so that anyone can attend,“ she says.
(Credit: Wartley Pride)
“Visibility matters and people need to know that education matters too. If we’re not out and visible and present and breaking down myths and barriers that people and misconceptions that people believe are influencing the 2SLGBTQIA+ community, then we’re not doing our job. A lot of the hate is based on misinformation and a misunderstanding about what the 2SLGBTQIA+ community is all about.”
