COLD LAKE — Cold Lake’s celebration of inclusivity and acceptance was on full display during the Rainbow Run held June 12 at the Lions Park.
The event, organized by Cold Lake and District FCSS, invited residents to take part in a colourful 2km walk or run in honour of Pride Month.
Participants were encouraged to move however they wanted, walking, running, or dancing, all in the spirit of fun and unity.
"Fun casual. However they want to do it. If they want to walk, they can. If they want to run, if they want to dance, whatever they want to do, they can do it," said Brittany Yuzicapi-Langer, Community Partnerships Facilitator with Cold Lake and District FCSS.
This marks the fourth year of the Rainbow Run, which began in 2021. Yuzicapi-Langer noted the original intent was to create a space for the LGBTQ+ community to come together and celebrate Pride Month.
Though the event has become more low-key over the years, its spirit remains strong.
“There's still a lot of heart from the community because they continue to show up,” she said.
This year’s run included a stop along the path where the Defense Construction Cannada from 4 Wing Cold Lake handed out Pride-themed swag. Once the route was complete, attendees enjoyed a meal and took part in activities like bracelet making, glitter tattoos, and lawn games.
The newly formed Rise Cold Lake group also took part in the day.
Around 60 people participated in the run, with 30 registering online and more signing up on the spot.
“This just provides a safe spot for members of the LGBTQ community to come together, celebrate who they are, feel safe, and just feel like they have a place in Cold Lake,” said Yuzicapi-Langer.
“I think it shows that the community is here, that we're not going anywhere, and that we do deserve to be celebrated . . . there’s nothing to be afraid of, there's nothing to be ashamed of.”
