While there won’t be a Pride Parade in Kamloops this summer, the President of Kamloops Pride is hoping that businesses will still decorate their storefronts during Pride Week, that gets underway today.

Speaking on NL Newsday, Nicole Stanchfield is encouraging people to get creative, as this year’s window display contest is going ahead as scheduled.

“Kamloops has been really wonderful, and having that support be visible can really make a difference in someone’s day. The excitement that folks have about Pride in Kamloops has been really quite affirming for me,” Stanchfield said, noting community support can go a long way.

“We may not be able to march through the streets this year, but seeing the community support and involvement can really put smiles on our faces.”

The Pride Parade – like many events this summer – was cancelled because of the COVID-19 pandemic.

“In addition to the window display contest, we will be hosting an online dance, a drag show, drag bingo, and a mini-version of the community summit that we hosted earlier this year,” Stanchfield added.

“These events will be offered for free, but we will be gratefully accepting donations.”

You’ll find a list of events taking place during Kamloops Pride Week between August 12 and 16 here.