June marks Pride Month worldwide, a time dedicated to celebrating and recognizing the LGBTQ+ community. Charlotte County, despite its small size, annually joins in this global celebration with its own Pride Week, highlighting the importance of inclusivity and acceptance.

Charlotte County hosted a series of Pride activities and celebrations last week, bringing the community together. CHCO helped kick off the festivities with Pride TV Bingo on Tuesday night, featuring special guest host Lee Heenan.

The highlight of the week was the annual Charlotte County Pride Parade. Dozens of participants gathered at the WC O'Neill Arena in St. Andrews on Saturday, marching in solidarity and celebration down Harriet Street before making their way down downtown Water Street.

The parade concluded outside historic Sheriff Andrews House, where attendees enjoyed a Queer Market and BBQ.

"When you look at the diversity of our communities in St. Stephen and St. George and St. Andrews, Campobello and Grand Manan, we've got 2SLGBTQI+ people everywhere around the community," said Todd Ross, Chair of Charlotte County Pride. "And it's important to remember that we've got an LGBT community here. But also it's important to be an example for younger people that they see that this is a celebration. And once a year, we come out and we bring out some flags just to remind people that it's okay, and you have something to celebrate, and you've got a supportive community." 

"The people in Charlotte County are pretty accepting," said Tracey Matheson of Charlotte County Pride. "They just want everyone to be happy and live their life. And we have to model to people in other places that were just like everybody else. And because of our trials and the things that we've gone through, we're stronger, and it's taught us all a bit of empathy, compassion, and grace for other people." 

The week culminated with a show at the KIRA Amphitheatre, this year featuring an Elton John cover band, continuing a tradition of hosting a major Pride event at the venue. 

Saint Andrews Mayor Brad Henderson, who also serves as the marketing director for Kingsbrae Garden and KIRA Amphitheatre, emphasized the importance of this ongoing tradition. 

"We're an inclusive community, and you want members of your public to feel comfortable with who they are and be happy and love who they want to love," said Mayor Henderson. "And I think when you look at our community and you look at the flags that are hanging from the businesses, it's just a little bit of our culture and our DNA, where if you want to be someone that's involved in the community, community, be a positive individual and contribute and just be thankful for being a New Brunswicker, a resident of St. Andrews, this community is for everyone."

Pride events like these are crucial, especially in smaller communities, providing a sense of belonging and acceptance to those who need it most. Charlotte County's Pride Week is a testament to the power of community and the ongoing journey toward inclusivity and equality.