Quick Escape 
June is Pride Month!
Started in 1970 as a commemoration for the Stonewall Riots that happened in New York City on June 28th, 1969, Pride marches have honoured the advocacy and legacy of Two-Spirit LGBTQIA+ folks who fought against discrimination.
With time, Pride has evolved into a month or summer-long period of advocacy for and celebration of Two-Spirit LGBTQIA+ people around the world. While celebrating Pride is important, equally important is to fund and support programming and opportunities for and by Two-Spirit LGBTQIA+ people all year.
is a youth-founded and youth-focused skill-sharing and community building program for Two-Spirit and LGBTQIA+ people in Hamilton. speqtrum provides online one-on-one support through weekly check-ins offering non-judgmental ear and emotional support; positive problem-solving, self-care, and coping strategies; and connection to relevant, gender-affirming local resources.
Speqtrum also provides safe spaces and community connections. Not all mainstream youth spaces feel safe or welcoming for 2SLGBTQIA+ young people. To address this need, speqtrum offers activities such as sports, games, and recreation; creativity and self-expression; skill-building; and cultural celebrations.
Over the last year, speqtrum has supported 480 youth and facilitated 79 community events for Two-Spirit and LGBTQIA+ youth. Donations to support ensure there is a safe space for queer and trans youth, where they were able to learn, play, connect, create, and just be their authentic selves. If you’d like to support this work during Pride month, please make a gift online to sustain speqtrum’s impact in our community.
We are proud to highlight these local businesses who have committed to fundraising on behalf of speqtrum throughout the month of June. From Pride totes to cookies and candles, there is something for everyone to check out!
Donut Monster (246 Locke St S)
Democracy* on Locke (202 Locke Street S)
Meg’s Boutique (pop up at Democracy*)
Mrktbox (346 Dundurn St S)
Lulu & Lavigne (228 Locke St. S.)
Cinny’s Sweet Treats
Chaton (Stall #34 within the lower level of the Hamilton Farmers’ Market)
speqtrum, is also hosting ‘Splash of Pride’ – an opportunity to get messy with paint and pride and literally celebrate all our colours on Thursday, June 26th from 5:30 PM to 8:00 PM at Gage Park Children’s Garden Project, 1000 Main St East!
Join us, speqtrum, and so many local businesses this Pride, and beyond, in supporting Two-Spirit LGBTQIA+ members of our community!