Pride Month is looking a bit different this year due to the COVID-19 pandemic with physical parades and festivals cancelled but Pride societies across the province are finding creative alternative ways to celebrate. Michael Chamberlain, the vice-president of the Nanaimo Pride Society, said the city kicked off the month with a livestream of the raising of the pride flag at city hall. Chamberlain said it is an especially weird time, given the COVID-19 pandemic and creating a sense of community, especially away from more populous centres, is especially important. "The Nanaimo Pride Society really becomes a connector or a joiner for the people in our community." His group is planning a number of virtual events as part of Pride month, including online dance parties, forums, and zoom chats.

Source: CBC News June 13, 2020 02:48 UTC