Jennifer McPhee
Northern News Services

Iqaluit (June 24/02) - There were no bared breasts, dancing in the streets, or wild costumes at Iqaluit's Gay Pride Day festivities on June 16.

But the low-key atmosphere didn't dampen the fun at what was likely Canada's most northerly pride fest.

"What you have is community," said Maureen Doherty. "And I think that's great."

For the second consecutive year, Iqaluit's gay community -- along with friends, family and supporters -- gathered at Sylvia Grinnell Territorial Park for a pride day picnic.

Allison Brewer, who organized the event, said the group erred on the side of discretion when publicizing pride day last year. As a result, just 12 people attended last year's picnic.

"It's hard to know how to approach people," she said. "You don't want to go up to someone and say, 'You look gay, why don't you come?'"

But they spread the word more freely this year and put up posters. Attendance tripled.

However, Brewer reminded the crowd during a short speech that there is no human rights legislation in Nunavut that protects people from discrimination based on sexual orientation.

She added some are still scared to openly celebrate their sexual orientation because they risk losing family and friends.

"The people who aren't here are the ones we have to think about," she said.

According to Brewer, some straight residents also won't offer support by attending the picnic because "they are afraid to be tarred with the same brush." On the other hand, lots of straight folks did show up.

"I look around and I don't know who is straight, lesbian or gay," she said. "It's just folk, just people. And it's nice to see kids here."

The gay community relies on those like Allison Brewer with the courage to speak up. And, as a minority group, the community also relies on others to educate people and ensure there isn't discrimination. "You can't legislate human rights but what you can do is educate people. And I can't educate people by being in the closet," Brewer said.

She added the she hopes the picnic will become an annual event.