PRIDE IN ACTION: ENACTUS SLC’S PRIDE GALLERY
Pride month means many important things to so many people: history, work, culture, life, and most importantly, pride. As a club focused on making a positive impact in our community, Enactus SLC felt compelled to celebrate Pride in a meaningful way. Guided by members of our own LGBTQ+ community in planning this event. Our goal was to uplift local queer voices and educate the Kingston community while showcasing the vibrancy of LGBTQ+ culture.
An art gallery featuring local LGBTQ+ artists, alongside historical pieces about the LGBTQ+ rights movement, seemed like a perfect fit. Rielly Keeler Enactus SLC Admin, and a proud member of Kingston's LGBTQ+ community, spearheaded the project. Planning and executing the Pride Gallery in just two weeks through incredible support from the community.
The Innovation Hub provided a high-traffic location for the exhibit, ensuring maximum exposure. Another key partner was Kingston Frameworks, whose expert framing services elevated the presentation of the artwork.
But the heart of the Pride Gallery belonged to the artists themselves. LGBTQ+ artists from Kingston and even Ottawa generously shared their beautiful pieces. Each work explored a different aspect of the queer experience, showcasing not only exceptional talent but also the unique perspectives of each artist. Enactus extends its deepest gratitude to Ali (Joy-Lily) McDonald from A.J.L.Y Artistry, Dylan Dowds and Kaden Bolten for their contributions.
The pieces explore the female form, aiming to desexualize it in today's hyper-sexual age. Another powerful piece featured sketches of a heart and a rainbow feather, symbolizing hope and perseverance in the face of adversity. A third artist presented a collection inspired by their identity as a queer person, aiming to transmit that same inspiration to viewers.
Over 100 people visited the gallery throughout the week, with nearly half following up on links we provided to learn more about the artists and the LGBTQ+ rights movement. The positive impact was undeniable. As we witnessed the art come together, it was truly moving to feel the weight of the LGBTQ+ movement's history. The artwork not only filled the Innovation Hub's entrance with a vibrant atmosphere but also served as a powerful reminder of the struggles for LGBTQ+ acceptance and the progress made. The Pride Gallery inspired Enactus to continue its mission as an inclusive force for good in Kingston.
We are proud to create initiatives that drive positive change in our community. At Enactus SLC, we believe in changing the world one project at a time. If you're interested in joining our team of changemakers, attend our monthly open meetings or reach out to learn more. We also welcome collaboration with local organizations that share our commitment to positive community impact. Get in touch, and let's make a difference together!
“There will not be a magic day when we wake up and it’s now okay to express ourselves publicly. We make that day by doing things publicly until it’s simply the way things are.”
