Caledon Pride
What is Caledon Pride?
Caledon Pride is a grassroots 2SLGBTQ+ advocacy group dedicated to creating an inclusive community for all in Caledon, Ontario. We work with local organizations to bring meaningful programming to the community during Pride Month, and to promote 2SLGBTQ+ advocacy year-round.
In addition, Caledon Pride also helps in directing individuals to external 2SLGBTQ+ resources within the GTA, such as inclusive health and wellness services. We strive to serve as a central hub for Caledon residences on all things Pride in the region, and work to provide inclusivity education to local organizations.
We are accessible to anyone in Caledon and its neighbouring communities! Ultimately Caledon Pride exists to help combat the severe social isolation and loneliness that 2SLGBTQ+ individuals living in rural communities often report experiencing. Caledon Pride aims to bring the community together through an anti-racism, anti-oppression, and indigenous solidarity
framework.
Team Members
Julia Bertola
Founder/Communications Lead
“I started Caledon Pride to advocate for the 2SLGBTQ+ Community here in Caledon, and my goal is to create positive spaces for community members to connect with each other and feel supported. This is my community, and I want to support and encourage everyone to feel confident and safe as they learn to express themselves.”
Hailey Tsolakis
Project Coordinator
“I’m proud to be a part of the Peel region, and so grateful for the chance to participate in caledon pride. i think creating more opportunities for our community to connect and grow together is super important and i look forward to being a part of that.”
Pride Month Events
Start of the Peel Pride Fundraiser
One of Caledon Pride’s largest goals is to bring more accessible services to our community members. Times are tough, especially if you have no one to talk to, that’s why we’re raising funds and awareness to benefit an organization that we think more Caledon residents should know about.
During the whole month of Pride, we will be fundraising for LGBT Youth Line. LGBT Youth Line is a Queer, Trans, Two-Spirit youth-led organization that affirms and supports the experiences of youth (29 and under) across Ontario. Help us in giving back and supporting a local service that would greatly benefit Caledon’s youth.
Donate Here: https://gofund.me/c60c6e0b
Premiere of Caledon’s Virtual Pride Flag Raising
Join Caledon Pride, Youth Activists Inc. and Caledon Mayor Allan Thompson as we kickoff Pride Month 2021 with our virtual Pride Flag Raising and a very special announcement!
• 6-8PM
PRISM: Relationship Detox
Hosted by ECLYPSE Youth centre, PRISM is a 2SLGBTQ+ youth group for ages 14 to 20 that meets every Monday. In this group, you will meet new people, discuss issues that impact the 2SLGBTQ+ community, empower yourself, and educate others.
This week, join us for a relationship workshop to discuss relationship skill building, enforcing boundaries in relations, and so much more! With special guests from Queer and Connected (Family Service Toronto)
Email mbuchal@rapportyouth.com to register!
Bolton Pride Flag Raising
We are so happy to announce that for the first time ever, we have raised the Pride Flag in Bolton! 🏳️🌈
This was such a great accomplishment as for many of us, Downtown Bolton has always been a place where community members and their friends and family can spend time together.
Whether you’re grabbing a coffee at the Timmies or enjoying some ice cream from Happy Days, having such a visible sign of Pride shows that everyone should be welcomed and respected in our spaces. 🏳️⚧❤🏳️🌈
Not only was it the first Bolton Flag Raising, but it was done specifically by the youth of our community through Youth Activists Inc. and Caledon PRIDE!
• 6-8PM
PRISM: Gaymes Night
Hosted by ECLYPSE Youth centre, PRISM is a 2SLGBTQ+ youth group for ages 14 to 20 that meets every Monday. In this group, you will meet new people, discuss issues that impact the 2SLGBTQ+ community, empower yourself, and educate others.
We’re inviting you to hang out and play some gaymes! Live via Discord, we’ll be playing games from Jackbox Party Pack 2 & 3. Make sure you’re there for the chance to win a $50 steam gift card and other prizes!
Email mbuchal@rapportyouth.com to register!
• 7PM
Caledon Public Library: Virtual Pride Book Club
On June 17 at 7 pm, join us to discuss Butter Honey Pig Bread by Francesca Ekwuyasi. This Canada Reads selection deals with themes of faith, family, queerness, and belonging.
To read a copy of this book, please go to the library’s catalogue and place a hold (available on a first-come basis), or borrow it digitally on hoopla.
Please note this program is for participants aged 16+ due to mature themes.
Celebrate Pride Month with CPL and check out their free LGBTQ2S+ online programs/activities and browse our recommended reads throughout June 2021: https://caledon.library.on.ca/celebrate-pride/
• 6-8PM
PRISM: TEACH Workshop
Hosted by ECLYPSE Youth centre, PRISM is a 2SLGBTQ+ youth group for ages 14 to 20 that meets every Monday. In this group, you will meet new people, discuss issues that impact the 2SLGBTQ+ community, empower yourself, and educate others.
Via Zoom, join our TEACH program workshop with Planned Parenthood Toronto to discuss identities & terminology, stereotypes, intersecting forms of oppression and allyship.
Email mbuchal@rapportyouth.com to register! Registration deadline is June 7th
• 6-8PM
PRISM: Panel Discussion
Hosted by ECLYPSE Youth Centre, PRISM is a 2SLGBTQ+ youth group for young adults aged 13-19. This group aims to create a safe and supportive space for 2SLGBTQ+ folks and those looking to learn more about the 2SLGBTQ+ community. We get the chance to discuss various topics like; coming out, understanding gender and sexuality, relationships, and mental health.
Join our panel discussion, where guest speakers will discuss talk about living in Peel Region as a 2SLGBTQ+ youth navigating relationships and services. The night will include a Q&A and a debrief at the end of the event. Guest speakers include: Lzzie Leaton (she/they), Julia Bertola (she/her), and Sim (she/her)
Email mbuchal@rapportyouth.com to register!
