Embracing identity and community in Cold Lake
“I moved here six years ago,” recalls Pheonix, who was born in Whitecourt. Since moving to Cold Lake, Pheonix says they’ve been welcomed into the community.
Phoenix identifies as non-binary and gay. “I am gay (lesbian) and also non-binary, so I go by they-them,” they explain, emphasizing the importance of pronouns.
Living with Dissociative Identity Disorder (DID), Phoenix has navigated unique challenges.
“I have a mental disorder called Dissociative Identity Disorder (DID), so I'm an alter as well. Basically, I have multiple personalities. I have other individuals inside my brain. I am not the original person, but if I do sift through some memories, since we were a kid, we never really fit into the ‘I'm straight’ idea.”
Their journey has been filled with complexities.
“It was a bumpy road, with canyons.”
Phoenix's mother, Jennifer Craig, has been a steadfast supporter.
“It started when they were about 12,” Jennifer shares. “They went through a period where they thought they might be transgender, went through a period where they might be bisexual, went through a period where they pretty much tried everything on, until they found the one that actually fits.”
Phoenix’s mother says she was not surprised by the journey.
“It wasn’t a surprise. It was pretty obvious. There was no closet. There were just rainbows.”
Jennifer says she appreciates the inclusive atmosphere that exists in Cold Lake.
“It's pretty good actually. It’s nice. Way better than... other places I’ve seen.”
Jennifer adds, “Here, you guys have things at the marina. And then we have the drag show, which is super cool. And there’s a Rainbow Run, and you do stuff.”
Phoenix and their mother agree that the community of Cold Lake brings more awareness to LGBTQ+ issues. Phoenix finds joy in the acceptance they have found, and they have a message for others: “Don't give up who you are, no matter who hates you. There’s always going to be someone there to support you. You just have to look.”
Phoenix encourages others to connect with support groups such as the Cold Lake Pride group.
Pride Month, which takes place every June, holds special significance for Phoenix.
“It’s a month where I can really wear rainbows everywhere without having to think of an excuse, and I can support others who might not be as confident as I am.”
For those struggling with self-acceptance, Phoenix offers some creative advice.
“If you're having trouble accepting who you are - something I did when I wasn’t accepting who I was at first - I actually made who I thought I might be into a Dungeons and Dragons (D&D) character, or into characters in stories to relate to.”
Pride Season
In Canada, Pride Season takes place during the summer months, from June through to September, according to the Government of Canada.
Pride Season encompasses a wide range of Pride events, including Pride Month, which is celebrated in June. Public Service Pride Week is celebrated during the third week of August, and Pride events are celebrated all summer across Canada.
In Cold Lake, the second annual Rainbow Run is scheduled to take place on June 23 at the Lions Park, Cold Lake South at Centre Avenue and 60th Street.
The run will start at 10 a.m. and the Pride Celebration in the Park will go on until 1 p.m.
“Everyone is welcome,” according to information from the City of Cold Lake.
The Rainbow Run is a 2 km walk or run and is a family-friendly celebration.
The cost to participate in the run and attend the event is $5 for individuals or $20 for a family. Registration closes on June 21. Registration is done through the City of Cold Lake.
Chantel Downes, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter, Lakeland This Week
