Opinion: Why events like the Pride Wellbeing Festival are important to the wider South West community

As someone who identifies as queer and non-binary, I understand how isolating it can be to exist as an LGBTIQA+ person in a regional community, with homophobia a very reality I face.

I also know how events that are inclusive — like annual Pride events — can make the experience easier, be informative and welcoming for those trying to find their place in the world.

So when city of Busselton councillor Richard Beecroft stood up in council chambers and said funding for local Pride events should be abandoned, I was shocked.

That shock quickly turned to bewilderment when he said “the majority of people in the City of Busselton, quite frankly, are offended by the Pride movement”.

It felt like whiplash compared to the welcoming and inclusive nature in the Busselton community, with residents and travellers showing kindness and compassion since my move to the region.

Pride is not just about dressing up in rainbow colours and partying but an acknowledgement of the pain and fights queer and trans people had to go through in order be treated as equal, something they had to earn.

Cr Beecroft didn’t reference any facts or stats to back up his claim ratepayers find my existence offensive.

Where was his evidence to make such a claim? Had he done a thorough survey on the matter, or had he just spoken to a few disgruntled residents?

With the estimated economic impact of local Pride events being about $250,000 — and attended by more than 1500 people this year — there is no solid reason why the council shouldn’t endorse $6250 in funding.

If other arts, sports, and food and wine events are valid in receiving city support and ratepayer funding, then events like the Pride Wellbeing Festival should be too.

Thankfully, Cr Beecroft’s motion didn’t move forward.

Busselton Pride Alliance is hosting events for members of a community who just want to be accepted for who they are and include everyone in those celebrations.

It makes those wanting to visit and those who identify as a part of the LGBTIQA+ community know they are safe and supported, and their identity is considered valid among the Busselton community.

I know that’s how I have felt working in the city, meeting with locals and visitors.