The Prairie Pride Guild brings awareness to equality and justice by cleaning litter in 2024. Courtesy/Prairie Pride Guild of Medicine Hat and District

By Jayk Sterkenburg

IN THE COMMUNITY

Medicine Hat pride group brings awareness to equality with litter clean-up

May 17, 2025 | 10:24 AM

This year’s theme of International Day Against Homophobia, Transphobia, and Biphobia on Saturday is “The Power of Communities”.

The theme reflects the strength and resilience within 2SLGBTQI+ communities.

The Prairie Pride Guild is hosting a second annual neighbourhood cleanup Saturday to recognize and bring awareness to the day that promotes equality and justice.

The PPG will meet at Scherer Manor at 2 p.m., and will clean up litter around Finlay Bridge and area until 3:30 p.m.

Courtesy/Prairie Pride Guild of Medicine Hat and District

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The PPG said in a statement that the cleanup not only serves to maintain the beauty of the city’s riverside, but also to stand in solidarity with the 2SLGBTQIA+ community.

It said it still faces challenges in the form of prejudice and discrimination.

IDAHOBIT, observed on May 17, marks the date in 1990 when the World Health Organization took a big step towards equality by declassifying homosexuality as a mental disorder.

“While substantial progress has been made since then, the recent rise in hate speech and discriminatory actions towards the 2SLGBTQIA+ community, both in Canada and globally, remains a stark reminder that there is still much work to be done,” the PPG told CHAT News Sunday.

“Regrettably, political rhetoric has often served to amplify these sentiments, contributing to a climate of fear and anxiety, particularly among our youth.”

The PPG said the Spring Cleanup is an expression of its gratitude to the people of Medicine Hat for fostering a community that embraces diversity and inclusivity.

“It is a testament to the fact that our city is, and will continue to be, a haven for everyone,” it said.

Tanya Fir, Alberta’s minister of arts, culture and status of women, said in a statement the province stands united in the shared vision of creating an Alberta where everyone feels safe and respected, as it works to eliminate all forms of discrimination.

“By standing with those affected by homophobia, transphobia and biphobia, we uphold the values of understanding, compassion and respect that define us as a province,” she said.

To ensure access to meaningful supports, Alberta’s government created the 2SLGBTQQIA+ Web Hub.

The hub is a centralized, accessible resource connecting Albertans to vital government programs and services tailored to the community.

“Alberta’s government is committed to supporting 2SLGBTQQIA+ Albertans and fostering a province where everyone can live without fear and thrive,” Fir said.

Rechie Valdez, Canada’s minister of women and gender equality, said in a statement that every Canadian deserves the freedom to live a safe and healthy life, regardless of who they are or who they love.

“[Today] we reiterate our commitment in working with 2SLGBTQI+ communities to combat the stigma, discrimination, and violence they experience,” she said Saturday.

Valdez said through the Federal 2SLGBTQI+ Action Plan, Canada supports those working to protect rights and advance equality for 2SLGBTQI+ communities.

She said Canada’s Action Plan on Combatting Hate will reduce the spread of hateful rhetoric and discrimination, helping to ensure that all marginalized communities are safer and more respected.

Through the Action Plan, 11 projects have received up to $8.4 million to combat hate toward 2SLGBTQI+ communities.

$3 million has been allocated from 2023 to 2025 to protect the safety of 2SLGBTQI+ people during Pride events.

“By harnessing the power of communities, we will achieve lasting change where everyone, regardless of gender identity or sexual orientation, is treated with dignity and respect,” Valdez said.