By Pam Wright
Local Journalism Initiative Reporter
Long-time CK Pride president Marianne Willson is passing the torch after nearly 25 “impactful” years of service with the organization.
The change will see vice-president Nathanial Dawthorne take the helm, with Bryan Edds moving into the vice-president’s chair.
According to a media release from the agency, Willson was instrumental in founding of the Chatham-Kent Gay Pride Association in 2001 after first volunteering with the original Brothers and Sisters LGBT group in 1998.
“Marianne’s commitment to the 2SLGBTQIA+ has been crucial in driving the organization’s growth and promoting a welcoming environment in Chatham-Kent,” the release stated, noting that under her guidance, CK Pride has enhanced its outreach and support services.
Those accomplishments include the establishment of an annual Pride Parade and Family Festival each August, and the creation of Bill’s Place community hub in Chatham, named after Bill Brokenshire, a former C-K resident who bequeathed a trust fund to the organization in his will. Bill’s Place currently offers a range of programs from drop-on sessions, community meals, a gender affirming clothing program, and support groups.
Also of note during Willson’s leadership was her response to a controversial “no to homosexuality” billboard in Chatham-Kent in 2018, in which she emphasized the community’s diversity and inclusiveness. She highlighted the negative impact of divisive messages on local youth, advocating for love and support. This prompted community action to remove the billboard under the #Signs of Love Campaign.
According to the media statement, “Marianne’s mantra has been that we are one community; we are all Chatham-Kent. You can’t see a rainbow if you don’t dance in the rain.”
Beyond her role working with board of directors to foster partnerships that promote allyship, diversity and inclusion, Willson has served as a director on the board of Linck Child and Youth Family Supports and co-chairs the 2SLGBTQIA+ subcommittee task force of the C-K Ontario Health Team diversity equity working group. She also co-chairs the affirming committee of St. Paul’s Victoria Avenue United Church and participates in the stewards committee.
The organization stated that CK Pride is excited to build on the strong foundation Willson has established.
