The Pride flag was raised at Belleville’s Quinte Sports and Wellness Centre Wednesday, to mark a special occasion.
The month of May marks the 50th anniversary of the partial decriminalization of homosexuality.
It opened the door to improvements in the rights of the “two-spirit, lesbian, gay, bisexual, trans and queer” community.
Chair of Pride Quinte John-Ross Parks says marking the occasion is important.
Parks says his organization has about 400 members.
Mayor Mitch Panciuk also officiated at the flag raising.
Belleville resident Greg Parsons tells Quinte News, “There’s been a huge change over 50 years. We couldn’t be ourselves or admit to anyone we were gay. We’ve just moved back after 35 years in Toronto. Belleville is different now.”
Belleville flies the Pride flag, May 22, 2019 (Photo: Mary Thomas/Quinte News)
