HUMBOLDT — The Humboldt and Area Pride Network are selling pride flags that businesses can display in their windows as a way to fundraise during this year’s virtual Humboldt Pride Week.
“Last year we were able to do our fundraiser at Streetfest,” said Andrew Matheson, Humboldt and Area Pride Network's chair.
“With Streetfest not happening and restrictions on some of the hands-on bake sales and all that other stuff that we have done in the past, we recognized that there was a definite lack for us as a non-profit group that relies on either donations or fundraisers to support a year’s worth of events.”
After Moose Jaw Pride saw success with a similar fundraiser, Matheson said they decided this would be a good way to promote allyship in the city, gain some funds and reach out to more businesses.
“Those who want to support and show their support in a public manner in their business storefront can do so,” Matheson said.
“This could be an uplifting show to youth or anyone walking down the street and being like, ‘there is so much support for me during Pride Week.’ [That] would be a very empowering visual message for them.”
In addition to the flags being sold, the network is offering local businesses a small rainbow and transgender flag free of charge through the Humboldt Chamber of Commerce.
Some of the larger pride flags being sold include the progress pride flag, the standard pride flag, the Canadian pride flag and the transgender pride flag.
“After we pay our costs then whatever money is left over is donated to being able to provide events or education for youth or adults or people in the Humboldt and area.”
Additional small flags can also be bought.
Forms can be found through emailing humboldtandareapridenetwork@gmail.com.
Pride Week will be running from Aug. 10 to 16.
