Campbell River holds fourth annual Walk Away from Homophobia on Monday, May 17.

Campbell River – The rainbow flag will be flying high in Campbell River on Monday May 17, as Campbell River Pride hosts its 4th Annual Walk Away from Homophobia.

The event is endorsed by Mayor Charlie Cornfield, who will be signing a proclamation designating May 17 as Walk Away from Homophobia Day in Campbell River. On the morning of Monday, May 17th, Mayor Cornfield will raise the rainbow flag at City Hall, to recognize the day to Walk Away from Homophobia, and to acknowledge that there are GLBT in every community and sport, making up an intricate but essential section of the diverse blanket of a healthy society.

With the theme “Speaking about Silence: Homophobia in the Sport’s World,” CR Pride, with the support of AIDS Vancouver Island, it’s partners and other organizations in Campbell River, are holding this walk to further the inclusion of homosexual persons in society, encourage understanding of sexual diversity and end discrimination based on sexual orientation.

This year’s walk will begin at 5 pm in the Spirit Square, located in the Tyee Plaza. All members of the community are invited to participate. This year’s headline performer is Vancouver's Kate Reid, musician and comedian, was a 2009 Canadian Folk Music Award Nominee who sings about love, identity and empowerment in a sometimes moving and always hilarious way that is relatable to anyone who has ever had fears about not “fitting in.”

“We’re thrilled to have Kate Reid join us on May 17 and look forward to hearing her sing while the rainbow flag flies high over City Hall,” said Mel Schwartz, a member of CR Pride.

The Walk Away from Homophobia was created by Campbell River’s gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgendered and queer (GLBTQ) Social/Support Group. With support from AIDS Vancouver Island, the group meets every 2nd and 4th Tuesday of the month at the John Howard Activity room in the Community Hall. The meetings are open to all GLBT, friends, family and supporters. More information is available from Leanne Cunningham, CR Pride Facilitator at (250) 204-2821.

Supporting partners of the event are the John Howard North Island Society, Youth 4 Diversity from the Campbell River Multicultural Society, the BCGEU, Splashes from the River Inc., the City of Campbell River, and many individuals.

Click here for poster.