SHERBROOKE — Despite setbacks that forced a scaled-down launch last summer, Sherbrooke Pride is back this year with renewed energy, bolstered by community support, strong partnerships and sheer determination.
“This year’s event has really come together,” said event organizer and local entrepreneur Tammie Vautour.
Vautour said the organizers’ decision to move forward independently – and away from municipal administration after last year’s challenges – was “pivotal” and “has made all the difference.... Last year, we hit some pretty frustrating roadblocks.”
Although planning began last year with strong support from the municipal administration, Vautour said things quickly unravelled after a staffing change. “Communication broke down, and earlier promises weren’t kept — leading to a delayed event and scaled-back programming,” she said.
This year, organizers decided early on to keep Sherbrooke Pride independent from the municipal administration, leaving greater flexibility and fewer bureaucratic hurdles for potential navigation. “That choice gave us a lot more freedom,” said Vautour.
Municipality of the District of St. Mary’s Warden James Fuller confirmed the municipality is not involved in the planning or operation of the community-driven and organized event, but noted they are supportive of the endeavour.
“The organizers approach council for funding directly through district discretionary funds,” said Fuller in an email interview with The Journal, noting most councillors donated not only through those available funds, but also from their own pockets.
Vautour said support received from community members, businesses and several members of the elected council “has been incredible.”
Noting that Fuller, Deputy Warden Beulah Malloy and councillors Emma Tibbo and Scott Beaver donated from their discretionary funds, made personal donations, and offered hands-on help and volunteered their time, Vautour said their leadership has shown what real community support looks like and “we’re proud to stand with them.”
Fuller confirmed the Pride flag will be flown for the entire month of June, explaining a misunderstanding resulted in the flag not being displayed last year, while assuring the issue has been remedied through policy by the municipality.
With planning now complete, Sherbrooke Pride 2025 will take place from June 6 to 8, and will feature a full weekend of events.
“It’s a fun, welcoming mix this year,” said Vautour. “We’ve packed a lot of joy, colour and connection into three days.”
The celebration will include everything from Drag Night at Beanie’s, to brunch, yoga in the park, and a community potluck, with a few exciting new events joining the line-up for this year’s celebration, including cocktails and karaoke, and a Youth Pride program in the park designed to give young people a safe and welcoming place to celebrate.
Vautour said organizers have had an incredible year working with sponsors and, thanks to their support, this year’s event has been designed to be accessible and joyful – and most importantly, free of charge.
“Every single event this year is free to attend for anyone who reserves a spot – a big change from last year,” she noted. “Making sure Pride is accessible to everyone really matters to us.”
She added: “We’ve built new friendships, stronger community ties, and found partners who genuinely care about making Sherbrooke Pride something special.”
As for decorations, Vautour said Sherbrooke Pride has taken things into their own hands and, through sponsorship funding, organizers have purchased Pride banners that will be going up along Main Street. “It’s important that the town looks like it’s celebrating Pride,” said Vautour, “and thanks to the community, it will.”
Said Fuller: “The municipality supports many community organization events and celebrations.” He offered assurances that they will continue to do so in the future.
Noting Sherbrooke Pride has been incredibly fortunate to have the support of many local businesses, organizations and everyday community members, Vautour said the outpouring of kindness has been amazing.
“From sponsorships and donations to people offering their time, their talents, or even just a kind word of encouragement, it’s clear that Pride in Sherbrooke matters to a lot of people, and that support is what makes it all possible,” she said.
“The municipality, through our council, is committed to providing a safe and welcoming atmosphere for all our residents and visitors,” Fuller said, adding: “The guiding foundation of our Accessibility (IDEAA) Committee is to ensure all barriers – physical and emotional – are removed now and in the future.”
Although many of the events will be hosted at Beanie’s Bistro, Vautour said “it’s the folks who show up to help, share ideas, hang decorations and spread the word” who are making it all happen.... It’s been planned with a lot of heart and even more helping hands.”
This year, she hopes people feel seen, celebrated and connected. “That’s the heart of it,” Vautour said, “creating a space where everyone feels welcome and proud to be exactly who they are.”
Despite a broad outpouring of support, Vautour admitted there are still challenges – “especially when it comes to public opinion.”
Negative comments and online criticism still show up, she said, “And, as much as we expect them, they can wear you down ... But we push through, because on the other side of that are all the messages of love, support and gratitude – and they remind us exactly why we keep doing this.”
Looking ahead, Vautour said she’d love to see Pride in Sherbrooke continue to grow, not just in size, but in spirit – with more partnerships, more youth involvement and more year-round visibility. And she hopes that a time comes when support from all levels is a given, and not a question.
“Pride isn’t just a weekend of fun,” said Vautour. “It’s a sign of who we are as a community, and how far we’re willing to go for each other.”
