Organizers for the Touch of Class gala evening in North Battleford went before city council seeking support for the organization.
Battlefords Pride executive member Janae Brownley made the request at Monday’s meeting. He was joined in the gallery by Kelly Waters and Bobbisue Thompson of the Battlefords Pride organization.
What the organization was seeking was a break on the rent for Don Ross Centre, where they are holding the event Saturday, Feb. 1.
The event was described as an opportunity for people to “come together and celebrate the reality of gay people in the community,” said Brownley.
Its purpose is to raise money for a safe location for those identifying as LGBTQ2+ and their allies, where they could gather on a regular basis for support.
“We need to take steps to help acceptance along in the community,” said Brownley. He also suggested returning to council at some point to have a full discussion of the realities facing LGBTQ people.
The event is open to everyone including both gay and straight people. According to correspondence to council, Lt.-Gov. Russ Mirasty is expected to attend as a special guest.
Earlier, the organization put in a funding application for a grant through Sask Lotteries. City Director of Leisure Services Cheryl DeNeire confirmed at Monday’s meeting that request has been approved.
However, no decision was made Monday on a rent reduction. The plan is for the issue to return to the next council meeting along with more information.
