Iqaluit Rainbow Rally calls for more support for 2SLGBTQ+ people
Approximately 30 people rallied in Iqaluit Thursday to call for more support for lesbian, gay, transgender, queer and two-spirit people.
The Rainbow Rally for Equality was one of several similar events taking place across Canada as part of a national week of action for 2SLGBTQ+ equality, led by the organization Society for Queer Momentum.
At Iqaluit’s Four Corners, speakers called on politicians in Nunavut and elsewhere to continue their support for these communities.
Among the speakers were organizers Del Drachenberg and Catherine Lightfoot, Nunavut MP Lori Idlout, former MP Jack Anawak and Nunavut Employees Union president Jason Rochon.
As the rally went on, staying on the side of the road so as not to block traffic, drivers passing by honked and waved in support.
Drachenberg said the rally was meant to ensure Nunavut continues to be a safe place for young people with diverse sexual and gender identities.
Drachenberg said coming out in Nunavut felt like a safe experience, thanks in part to support from the school system, and that it’s important for territorial leaders to follow suit.
“I would like to see [politicians] continue to enshrine the rights of transgender people and queer people; I really want them to make a statement that they’re going to continue to make sure that those rights are not tampered with,” Drachenberg said.
“I love everything about Iqaluit and I want it to be a place where my fellow trans and queer people can feel that love too.”
More Rainbow Rallies are taking place Friday at city halls and legislative buildings across Canada, in commemoration of the International Day Against Homophobia, Biphobia and Transphobia.
Drachenberg and Lightfoot said they also hope to help organize a Pride parade in June, which is Pride Month.
Jeff Pelletier, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter, Nunatsiaq News
