Written By David Gomez, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter
STRATHROY — Under a bright July 5th sky, members of the Strathroy-Caradoc community gathered on the steps of town hall to raise the Pride flag in a ceremony that marked the beginning of the municipality’s sixth annual Pride celebration.
Hosted by Strathroy Pride, the event drew dozens of residents, allies, and local leaders to recognize the importance of visibility, unity, and inclusion for the 2SLGBTQIA+ community—especially in rural Ontario.
“We gather not just to raise a flag, but to raise our voices, our hopes and our shared commitment to building a community where everyone is welcomed, respected and celebrated for who they are,” said Frank Emanuele, Director of Strathroy Pride, as he opened the ceremony from the lawn in front of town hall.
This year’s Pride programming included a wide variety of events—karaoke, bingo, drag brunches, and a biweekly youth group running from February to June. Emanuele noted that the group’s efforts have been met with “kindness, support and acceptance,” reinforcing Strathroy’s growing reputation as a place where inclusion is more than just an idea—it’s a practice.
“This pride flag may be made of fabric, but what it stands for is unbreakable: dignity, courage, diversity, and the power of being unapologetically yourself,” Emanuele said. “We’re saying clearly to the world that Strathroy stands against hate and discrimination and we stand proudly for inclusion and diversity.”
Mayor Colin Grantham also spoke at the event, praising the impact of local advocacy. “Frank spoke about community, and that word matters,” he said. “What I see, especially through my grandsons, is how change is happening—not just through what people do, but through what they no longer say. There’s a growing understanding and respect among the younger generation, and that’s in part thanks to how active and visible the Pride movement has become here in Strathroy.”
The Aeolian Pride Chorus was invited once again to perform, offering a rendition of John Lennon’s Imagine, followed by the raising of the Pride flag by three young guests—Luca, Kayla, and Annika.
After the ceremony, the celebration moved just a few blocks away to Alexandra Park for the sixth annual Pride in the Park event. Colourful booths lined the park pathways, showcasing local vendors, artists, advocacy groups, and small businesses. Families browsed handmade crafts and merch, while children enjoyed balloon animals, face painting, and a bouncy castle beneath the trees.
A large heart-shaped rainbow balloon arch greeted visitors near the entrance, while a vibrant inflatable rainbow banner stretched above the main walkway. At the centre of it all was a spirit of celebration—not only for Pride but for community itself.
“As the rainbow flag flies high above our town, let it be a symbol of unity, courage and love,” Emanuele said in closing. “Let it reflect the light of every person who lives here, and let it remind us that even in small towns, big change is possible when we stand together.”
