About Peterborough-Nogojiwanong Pride

Peterborough-Nogojiwanong Pride is a non-profit organization based in Peterborough, Ontario.

In 2003, a group of bold and courageous individuals organized Peterborough’s 1st Gay Pride parade and Mayor Sylvia Sutherland officially proclaimed September 13th as Gay Pride Day. On that occasion, over 300 people participated in the parade. The proclamation was a strong statement endorsing the importance of diversity in our community. 

In 2005, Peterborough Pride participants celebrated the passing of Bill C-38 (the equal marriage bill) when Parliament spoke clearly and loudly in proclaiming that all couples, regardless of gender, are equal in value and equal in law in every province and territory of our country. Ongoing efforts to gain full equal rights for all members of our community continued to be given profile during Pride events.

Since 2003, the Pride Committee, made up of representatives of community organizations along with community volunteers, with support from post-secondary institutions, individuals, community service agencies and business people in Peterborough, have made Pride an annual celebration.

Celebrations have expanded with more events, a bigger parade, park event, performances, workshops and dances. Although called Pride Week, events now cover more than a week and the celebration is a cornerstone opportunity for the community to gather and express itself publicly.

In 2011 for the first time, the Pride proclamation was read by the Mayor at the flag raising and this has continued.

In 2022 it was decided that Peterborough Pride would be changed to Peterborough-Nogojiwanong Pride to be more inclusive of 2-Spirit members of the community and reflect the fact that we are on the treaty and traditional territory of the Michi Saagiig Anishinaabeg.

We continue to work to build an enduring organization that is more inclusive and provides greater opportunities for all to participate in the work of building a better community. We will continue to take a stand for the rights of all LGBTTQI2-S folks in all aspects of their lives.

Peterborough-Nogojiwanong Pride continues to be organized and delivered by volunteers. If you would like to help make Pride happen please visit the Volunteer Webpage to find out about the opportunities.

If you have any questions please contact us at participate@peterboroughpride.ca