This is Pride Month in Newfoundland and Labrador and having a place where members of the LGBTQ+ community feel safe is important – especially in turbulent political times.

Co-chair of St. John’s Pride, Eddie St. Coeur, says the Pride community is a safe and welcoming place regardless of the location.

He says when he and his partner travel, they seek out inclusive places where there is a sense of calm, and reassurance.

“And it’s something that we see in St. John’s,” says St. Coeur. “I mean last year we had the St. John’s Pride parade which had 3,000 to 5,000 people participating in Bannerman Park.” He says that’s important at a time where they’re seeing a lot of political hate.

“There was a targeted, Queer shooting yesterday in Texas, and we have Canadian provinces that are passing these kinds of regressive legislation across the country. It’s important now more than ever (to) ensure that we make these safe spaces where queer people can gather.”