Press Release: Muskoka Pride Conference This Thursday in Gravenhurst

For Immediate Release

MUSKOKA PRIDE CONFERENCE THIS THURSDAY IN GRAVENHURST

GRAVENHURST, ONTARIO – November 3rd , 2015 – Muskoka Pride invites the community to attend the 3rd annual Muskoka Pride Conference on November 5th at the Gravenhurst Marriott.
With the theme of “Embracing Diversity” the conference looks at issues concerning the lesbian, gay, bisexual, trans, and queer (LGBTQ) community of Muskoka.

The 2015 Muskoka Pride Conference features presenters from the 519 in Toronto, York Region PFLAG, Halifax Pride, and Muskoka Pride. The conference reflects the supportive network of LGBTQ agencies and organizations across the province.

The conference begins with a session titled “Allyship – how not to be a clumsy ally” presented by the 519. Muskoka Pride’s own Lennox LePage will co-present a workshop with the 519 on building a trans-inclusive environment in any workplace or organization.

Marion Steele from Halifax Pride presents a workshop on heterosexual privilege. The conference concludes with a workshop with Marilyn Byers of York Region PFLAG titled “Cultivating a vibrant PFLAG community.”

For Heather Hay, Chairperson of Muskoka Pride, the conference fills an important need in the community. “This is an opportunity for service providers and members of the LGBTQ community to exchange ideas and information to build an inclusive community.”

Hay stressed the importance of visibility and the opportunity to discuss LGBTQ issues in Muskoka. “Many members of our community are isolated, LGBTQ youth face a higher risk of homelessness and suicide and seniors struggle with access to informed care providers. We particularly want members of the LGBTQ community to be present so that their voice and concerns can be heard.”

Interested community members can register for the conference online at the website: http://www.muskokapride.com/2015-conference.html The cost is $30, with scholarships available. Muskoka Pride wishes to thank Pay It Forward Muskoka and OPSEU Rainbow Alliance for their financial support.

Following the conference, Muskoka Pride will be holding its annual general meeting at 4:30pm. Refreshments will be provided.

For further information about all Muskoka Pride events, go to www.muskokapride.com or visit the Muskoka Pride Facebook Page www.facebook.com/muskokapride

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