Residents and visitors were not deterred by the smoky weather Saturday, as they walked in the annual Pride March at Stuart Park.
The march was led by Anas Qartoumeh, a gay Syrian refugee who gave an impactful speech and was met with applause during the event.
“I want to ask my community in the Middle East —do you think I’m gay? Yes, I am,” he said. “I am me now and I will never go back to not being me.”
Qartoumeh said two more Syrian refugee men will join in next year’s march after they arrive in Canada.
He shed a few tears while waving the colourful Pride flag, and marching towards Waterfront Park.
Activities for the Pride Festival will continue until 7 p.m. at the park.
@carliberry_
carli.berry@kelownacapnews.com
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