WE LIP Success Story | August 2024
On August 11th, 2024, the Windsor Essex Local Immigration Partnership (WE LIP) collaborated with the Queer & Trans Migrant Advocacy Alliance (QTMAA) to participate in the Windsor Essex Pride Fest Parade. This significant event marked a momentous occasion in the region’s ongoing efforts to foster inclusivity and celebrate diversity.
Here are the Highlights of the Event:
- The parade, which commenced at 11:00 AM from the corner of Ottawa Street and Argyle, made its way through the vibrant streets of Windsor, concluding at Lanspeary Park, the heart of the weekend-long Pride Festival. The participation of WE LIP in this event was a testament to the organization’s commitment to supporting the 2SLGBTQIA+ community, particularly queer and trans newcomers.
- In preparation for the event, WE LIP proactively engaged with its network by launching an online registration form, encouraging participation from a broad spectrum of community members. This outreach was strategically promoted through social media platforms, the WE LIP newsletter, and during the virtual SPICE PLC session held on July 25th, 2024. The call to participate was extended to newcomers, immigrants, migrant workers, refugees, international students, settlement workers, organizational staff, and allies, ensuring a diverse and inclusive representation in the parade. The Queer & Trans Migrant Advocacy Alliance echoed this invitation within their own network, further amplifying the event’s reach. The group’s procession was notably led by the Metropolitan Community Church of Windsor, symbolizing the unity and support of faith communities for queer and trans migrants.
- On the day of the parade, over 90 individuals marched together, united under banners emblazoned with the powerful message, “WE Belong”. This message of solidarity was further reinforced by volunteers who distributed pride flags, candy, and nearly one thousand #WEBelongstickers to the onlookers who lined the parade route. The atmosphere was electric, with participants dressed in vibrant colours, dancing with joy, and filling the air with music, creating adynamic and celebratory environment.
The Windsor Essex Pride Fest Parade 2024 stands as a significant milestone in the ongoing efforts to promote equity and inclusion within the community. Through the active participation of WE LIP and its partners, the parade highlighted the importance of creating a welcoming and supportive environment for all, particularly for those who are often marginalized. This event will be remembered not only for its vibrant celebration of diversity but also for the meaningful connections and solidarity it fostered within the Windsor-Essex community.
Download a PDF copy of this Success Story here:
