Thunder Bay shows its Pride through flag raising and week of activities

The Thunder Pride and Rainbow flags were officially raised at City Hall Wednesday, marking the sixth annual Pride Week in Thunder Bay.

The flagraising gives those in the community a sense of belonging, saidDonnaNagy, chair of Thunder Pride 2016, in a press release.

"Thunder Bay is our home, where we can be ourselves in work, sport, play and in our personal lives," she said.

One of the featured speakers was this year's Mr. Thunder Pride.

J.J., also known as Jessy Bogacki,said the flag raising is a chance to celebrate diversity, and look towards the future.

But he stressed it also a day to reflect on thepast.

"It's a remembrance of all those who fought for our rights before us. It's a reminder to respect those, and thatnot everyone you see is exactly who you might portray them to be."

"It's aboutequality with our sexuality." he said, adding "things aren't perfect now, but at least we're safe."

Bogacki, born in Thunder Bay, said he spent a short time in Toronto, but eventually returned to his hometown.

Attitudes towards sexuality are changing in the northern Ontario city, he said.

"There are so many allies, and people who are now supporting us."

Pride Week events include an awareness breakfast, a literary evening, a film night and a drag show.Opening and closing ceremonies will be held June 11 and June 18 at Marina Park.

Details about the events planned forPride Week can be found here.www.thunderpride.ca