Mural series celebrating 2SLGBTQ+ community unveiled in downtown Red Deer

“This means everything. This means we’ve come further, we’re progressing, and that we are so lucky because this is what freedom looks like; I think so anyway,” says Finlay, who has deep family connections to the 2SLGBTQ+ community.

Some of the 14 murals, including those which represent Vantage Community Services, Ubuntu Youth Council, RDP Pride on Campus, Youth HQ and Central Alberta Pride Society; situated at the corner of 51 Street and Little Gaetz Avenue. (rdnewsNOW/Josh Hall)

“Even though it’s not completely safe, we do live in a society where we can be us. All these people here can be themselves and feel safe. This art project is for the community, and now people can say they were a part of something.”

Corey King, secretary-treasurer with Central Alberta Pride Society (CAPS), agrees Red Deer has grown out of its shell a little, but there’s still some distance to go.

“We’re honoured to be a part of this and stand alongside the other 2SLGBTQ+ serving organizations to show that we are all working for the same goal in supporting this community,” said King.

“It’s everyone’s responsibility to learn and grow, and of course while our agencies have a goal to create the education which will help people learn, it’s also on the community and individuals to open up, listen and want to learn.”

Groups represented in the murals include:

TANAS
CAPS
Red Deer Native Friendship Society
Vantage Community Services
Ubuntu Youth Council
Youth HQ
Rocky Mountain House Pride
Innisfail Pride
Red Deer Queer Community Association
Turning Point Society
Red Deer polytechnic Pride on Campus
Notre Dame High School Gay-Straight Alliance
Lindsay Thurber High School Gay-Straight Alliance

Also in attendance at the unveiling was Red Deer Mayor Ken Johnston, who praised TANAS and the other agencies for their efforts.

“We talk about being welcoming and inclusive, and when an event like this occurs, I’m here to represent the whole community and say thanks to everyone here for being the community they are and contributing their voice,” said Johnston.

“We’re all on a continuum of learning that diversity and inclusion is possible for all. The more we celebrate in a great way like this, in a communal way, the more people understand that this is how we should get along, and it’s how we’re meant to get along. This is how social fabric is constructed. It’s a process, but we’re moving forward.”

Author’s note: 2SLGBTQ+ stands for Two-Spirited, Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender and Queer/Questioning. The + denotes the inclusion of others such as Intersex, Asexual, Pansexual and sometimes Ally.

by Josh Hall (Twitter: @Vancan19)

Mural series celebrating 2SLGBTQ+ community unveiled in downtown Red Deer

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