The organisers of Wellington’s upcoming Rainbow Pride Community Honours say the event is about celebrating those who make our communities thrive. More than 30 people will be recognised at the gathering at Meow Bar on Tuesday 10 February. All are welcome to attend, with a door charge of $5-$10. The Honours are being hosted by the team running Out in the Park, a revamped and larger version of Out in the Square which is moving to Waitangi Park on Saturday 14 February. Out in the Park chair Virginia Parker-Bowles said an annual event celebrating people’s contribution is long overdue for Wellington rainbow communities. “We all want to acknowledge the people who make our communities thrive.” Out in the Park partnered with community groups to develop the idea for the Rainbow Pride Community Honours. About 15 groups responded to the invitation to name individuals they want to recognise for their outstanding contribution to the lives of people in the queer communities, including people who could be honoured posthumously. “Rainbow Pride will give us a platform to regularly celebrate people’s work, and our diversity and achievements with a depth that hasn’t been offered before,” Parker-Bowles says. “We want to shine a light on those who toil away in the background as well as the leaders at the forefront.” Parker-Bowles says Rainbow Pride also aim to inspire volunteering and participation across the city’s queer communities, as well as a better understanding of the role of various groups. “We expect Rainbow Pride to grow in both significance and glamour over the next few years in the lead up to future Out in the Park fairs.” Rainbow Pride is on Tuesday 10 February: Meow Bar, Edward Street, doors open at 6.30pm, event from 7 to 10pm. Tickets at the door: $5 un/low waged
Credit: GayNZ.com Daily News staff
First published: Monday, 12th January 2015 - 9:14am