Moose Jaw TImes-Herald: Pride Week 2013: “Unexpected Neighbours, Unexpected Friends”

Focus is on integration of gay, lesbian and transgender people into the community


By Lisa Goudy

The theme of Pride Week 2013 in Moose Jaw is
Unexpected Neighbours, Unexpected Friends.
Times-Herald photo by Lisa Goudy

Coming out as gay, lesbian or transgender in Moose Jaw isn’t easy.

“I’ve never experienced violence, but you get strange looks, especially from parents with kids,” said Joe Wickenhauser, co-ordinator of Moose Jaw Pride Week this week. “I know there are some people who feel very comfortable walking down Main Street holding hands with their partner and others who are not comfortable.”

He said it’s “really difficult for gay people in Moose Jaw to come out.” The pride week events include a rainbow flag raising at 3 p.m. at the Moose Jaw Cultural Centre. That night two films will be screened. The Kids Are All Right will be at 6:30 p.m. and The Beginners will be at 8:30 p.m. Cost is $5 each or $7 for both. The films are rated 14+.

Wickenhauser said the events aren’t just for people who are gay, lesbian and transgender, but for everyone who supports gender and sexual diversity.

“We want to get the message out that we are part of the community. We’re neighbours and friends,” said Wickenhauser, adding the theme of pride week is Unexpected Neighbours, Unexpected Friends.

Read more