October is LGBT2SQ+ History Month
RAINBOW CROSSWALK BURLINGTON DRIVE AT PINETREE WAY OUTSIDE COQUITLAM CITY HALL
Coquitlam’s history has many layers that intersect with the history of our province, country, and the world at large. One of the narratives in this history is the emergence of the voices of LGBT2SQ+ individuals locally and across Canada.
The story of LGBT2SQ+ history in our region is as diverse as the community itself and involves the forming of community groups, opening dialogue around important issues, raising awareness, and advocating for inclusive and safe spaces.
The first official Pride parade, meaning held with the support of Vancouver City Council with a parade permit, was held on August 1st, 1981. Fifteen hundred people marched despite harassment and hate speech from some community members. The bravery of these individuals should not be understated, considering that only 8 years before homosexuality had been removed from the official “disorder” list of the Diagnostics and Statistics Manual of Mental Disorders.
In 1989 a group of students at Douglas College founded The Lesbian, Gay & Bisexual Collective (later changed to Queer Pride Collective). Created as a support group, this student lead initiative also brought awareness to issues facing the LGBT2SQ+ community and raised funds for court battles around banned books in school districts. Today the Collective is known as the DSU Pride Collective and provides a safe and inclusive space for members of the LGBTQ2S+ community, including fun, safe and inclusive events, and advocacy for LGBTQ2S+ students at Douglas College and in the greater community.
COQUITLAM CITY HALL WITH RAINBOW COLOURED SCULPTURE PHOTO CREDIT BEST COAST BC
The Tri-Cities Pride Society (TCPS) was formed in September 2017 to advocate for and serve the LGBT2SQ+ communities in the cities of Port Moody, Coquitlam, and Port Coquitlam. In 2018 TCPS advocated for the rainbow crosswalk that is now installed on Burlington Drive at Pinetree Way outside Coquitlam City Hall. These crosswalks are believed to have started in Taipei Taiwan in 2008 when a campaign for promoting gender equality was organized by the National Taiwan Normal University. There are many instances of vandalism against these colourful symbols and so more education and outreach is needed to combat homophobia and transphobia in our communities.
Rainbow Crosswalks are based on the Rainbow/LGBT Pride flag that was designed by artist Gilbert Baker in 1978, it flew at the San Francisco Gay Freedom Day Parade celebration on June 25, 1978. The flag has gone through many versions and colour combinations and continues to be used as a symbol of freedom to raise consciousness.
When we learn about the many cultures and experiences that make Coquitlam a remarkable place to live, work and play in, it is especially important to learn from all our collective stories and celebrate the benchmarks that have led to a society that is more just and inclusive for all.
To learn more, visit these resources: