Yami Msosa, an organizer for Chez Nous, highlighted the necessity of representing diverse voices within local leadership structures.
"We don't often see folks that look like me in roles of leadership [in 2SLGBTQ+ organizations]," Msosa said.
Msosa noted that the festival centers Africanness amid growing safety concerns and deteriorating legal rights for 2SLGBTQ+ individuals in several African countries, including Ghana, Senegal, and Niger, which enacted stricter laws this year.
"It's reflective [of] a Pride movement where often racialized newcomers, Africans, folks from different diasporas often have to fight to be heard," Msosa said.
The festival organizer extended thoughts to those affected by the European tragedy.
"[When] violence ensues, it creates a moment of pause [to think] about what does it mean to truly be safe and what does it truly mean to celebrate who you are," Msosa said.
Community members attending local events expressed ongoing solidarity and determination following the violent events abroad.
"[There's been] a lot of progress," said Hiliya-Kin Robleh, attendee with the AIDS Committee of Ottawa.
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Robleh emphasized the ongoing necessity of advocacy efforts. "But it's never enough," Robleh said.
