Affirming congregation held vigil and offered support to 2SLGBTQIA+ community after vandalism of rainbow steps
On Saturday, November 16, about 40 members of the East Central Ontario Regional Council demonstrated an inclusive welcome by singing hymns on the rainbow steps of Trinity-St. Andrew’s United Church in Brighton, Ontario.
Those rainbow steps were vandalized. Again. On Sunday, November 24, individuals spray-painted the front doors and rainbow steps with grey paint.
“It makes me sad to think there is so much fear out there,” said Jeanette Cournoyer, chair of the Trinity-St. Andrew’s Affirm and Equity Committee. “It makes me realize that our work is not done, and we need to continue to offer a safe space to all people in the Brighton community.”
On Sunday, December 1, the congregation itself gathered to hold a candlelight vigil on those same rainbow steps. Over 40 people attended, including the Mayor of Brighton, several members of Council, the Chair of the Municipality’s Justice, Equity, Diversity and Inclusion Committee, and Rev. Eric Hebert-Daly, Executive Minister for East Central Ontario, Eastern Ontario Outaouais and Nakonha:ka regional councils.
The vandalism has reinforced the church’s presence as a hub of love and support for the LGBTQ+ community. As well as the inclusive hymn sing (pictured in this post) from the East Central Ontario Regional Council meeting, the congregation has offered space for a support group for family and friends of people who are 2SLGBTQIA+, and observed Transgender Day of Remembrance on November 20.
“The vandalism of our stairs is just a continuation of an issue that has been brewing in our community for some time. There is no official LGBTQ+ alliance/group in Brighton so our efforts to support LGBTQ+ people lack the coordination and clout that they would in larger, better organized areas,” says Cournoyer. “We greatly appreciate the fast response of our elected officials in denouncing this violence and in supporting the LGBTQ+ community,”
Trinity-St. Andrew’s United Church volunteers worked tirelessly on Tuesday, November 26, to clean up the paint.
“I am so grateful for the ministry of this church,” said Rev. Wanda Stride. “The rainbow steps represent God’s beloved diversity, and a promise of safe harbour for all people. I, too, am deeply saddened that people feel they need to deface and try to instill fear in people who are already feeling vulnerable.”
For more information on how to support the 2SLGBTQIA+ community in Brighton, please contact Trinity-St. Andrew’s United Church at 613-475-1311.