This story is from Gordon Neighbourhood House community organizer and volunteer, Lindsay Sutton. In time for Vancouver Pride Week and written in her own words, Lindsay tells the story of community, diversity and joy!
In 2017 my friend and neighbour Kathryn Gibbons created Kids N’ Queens story time with local drag queen Mina Mercury (aka Jason Bradstock) which was funded by the Neighbourhood Small Grants Kids N’ Queens is a storytelling event hosted by members of the local drag community. It reflects the diversity of our community and inspires imagination in the kids who attend. Sadly, Kathryn passed away, and with her family’s blessing I stepped in and partnered with Jason to make the event happen again in 2019.
With only a few days before the event, Gordon House was informed that there were members of the public planning to protest our event. As a member of the Queer community, I was familiar with opposition, ignorance, and hatred. What I never expected was that a joyful, family-oriented event would be controversial.
We were devastated, but after reaching out to various community members, and the leadership at Gordon House, we decided to move forward with the event. The community had our back. West End families gathered at Gordon House to celebrate Pride together. The event was a huge success, because our community & Gordon House showed their support to ensure everyone was safe.
The experience encouraged me to engage more deeply with the neighbourhood by joining the Community Advisory Board. Thank you to Gordon House and my neighbours for providing a new way to serve the community that I love so much.
Thank you for sharing your Gordon House story Lindsay! To learn more, visit them online, or on Facebook or Instagram. And as always, if this story inspires, moves and excites you, please share it with your friends and neighbours!
