File Photo An expanded Dunedin Pride has been announced, with organisers underlining the importance of “big, bold and public” events to celebrate diversity. Dunedin Pride will be launched on Tuesday 11 November with an art exhibition opening in the Pioneer Woman’s Hall. Organiser Dr Lee Smith says it will feature a diverse range of art from mature and youthful queer artists as well as their supportive allies. The “combination of artists is not only representative of diversity in the queer community but also highlights the inclusive nature of Pride2014,” Dr Smith says. On Friday 14 November, a Dunedin Diversity Strategy will be released. Dunedin Pride spokesperson and OUSA Queer Support Coordinator Neill Ballantyne says it’s the result of a consultative hui held last year. “We took recommendations from a range of community groups and produced this strategy which sets a framework for creating the most inclusive and affirming city in New Zealand,” he says. “We already have major employers in Dunedin committing to the Charter principles and we look forward to having further input and suggestions for implementation.” On Saturday 15 November the Camp Carnival will return to the Octagon. It will feature food vendors, information stalls, live music, dance performances, and other family-friendly activities. “We are hoping for a beautiful, sunny Dunedin summer’s day so the Octagon will be packed with people enjoying the atmosphere,” Ballantyne says. “This is a great way for people to come and show their support as well as have a great time.” Pride will close with the Pride2014 Dance Party at Fever Club that night, which is expected to be another sell-out. “We were completely sold out before the event and had big lines waiting to get in last year, so we know it’s going to be another great finale,” Ballantyne says. When underscoring the importance of Pride, he points to studies, such as the Youth ’07 report, showing times are still tough for LGBT young people as they come to terms with their identity in sometimes hostile environments. “It is unacceptable that same-sex attracted youth are statistically more likely to experience significant mental health concerns, such as suicidality and depression during adolescence than their opposite sex attracted counterparts,” he says. “This is why it is important to have big, bold and public events which celebrate diversity in our communities.”
Credit: GayNZ.com Daily News staff
First published: Tuesday, 14th October 2014 - 1:45pm