Discussions

I've pretty much chickened out of going yet again. But hope everyone has fun! :D

Why chickened out?! Pride is always a good time!

http://brandonpride.org  
 
Personally I'm interested in the games night and the parade but I'm also a bit of a chicken. Last year I went to the social with a trans friend of mine, and of course it was a lot of fun. This year, though, they're not in town and I much doubt anyone else in my world is interested in participating.

I'm not out, and it can be difficult. I don't really know anyone who would go with me anyway, and going alone makes it that much more difficult to do.

It's tough not being out. I'm also very much not out, which is just one more reason I would be going alone.  
However! Could be a great way to meet some people who are in the same boat. Good to know I'm not the only one.

I'm not a member of the LGBT community, but I think I can understand the hesitancy of those not yet out, when it comes to attending Pride events. However, are the activities only open to members of the LGBT community? My daughter isn't, but was very interested in attending to become more aware, show support and make connections with more people in Brandon.  
She, too, is concerned about going by herself, though.

Yes, DNick, your daughter would definitely be welcome to join in this week's activities! Sounds like she is in the "Ally" category, and allies form a much needed bridge between the LGBT and straight communities.

Yes, I can understand that it would be hard to attend if you aren't 'out'. Heartbeat and Jovial, maybe the two of you should go to one of the events together!  
I am an Ally, and have attended the social (with an Ally friend), and the lunch and learn a couple of years (I don't think there is one this year though). Nobody asked whether I was there as an Ally or a member of the LGBT community, or why I was there at all, LOL.

My wife and I attended events in the past and we might go again. We are Ally's and like previous poster mentioned no one cared why we were there. No one asked. We had a blast. Question though. Why don't they change the name to LGBTA. This would open the door to a lot of people who feel out of place. If you're not out or concerned at all you can always say you're an "A" for ally.

I have sometimes seen the above initials used, to include an A for Allies. Here's what SERC has to say about definitions/ initials (from: http://www.serc.mb.ca/lgbt/lgbttq-wordsdefinitions)  
 
"LGBTTQ* Initialism - You may be familiar with GLBT, LGBT*, LGBTTQ, LGBTTQQIA*, LGBTQQIP2SAA to represent Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Trans*, Two Spirit, Queer, Questioning, Intersex, and Asexual individuals, families, and communities. The placement and inclusion of letters is determined by the communities using the initialism. There is no universal or official initialism for LGBTTQ* communities."