Rural Nova Scotia radio station looks to amplify 2SLGBTQ+ voices
GoProud: Elevating 2SLGBTQ+ Voices in Rural Nova Scotia
Located in downtown Lunenburg, GoProud is a digital radio station that is making waves in the community by amplifying 2SLGBTQ+ voices in rural Nova Scotia. The station, which was launched earlier this month, operates out of space and equipment provided by local station 107.9 Go Rock.
Alison Clements, a bisexual woman and the community engagement lead with Go Rock, is the founder of GoProud. She noticed the prevalence of anti-2SLGBTQ+ rhetoric and wanted to combat it by spreading positivity and highlighting 2SLGBTQ+ artists and their allies, especially those from the local area.
Clements collaborated with Lunenburg Pride to establish a partnership. Lunenburg Pride helps in recommending artists and voices for the radio, bringing the community together in the face of discrimination locally and globally.
Kira Williston, a director with Lunenburg Pride, was thrilled to join forces with Clements in this initiative. She serves as the volunteer co-ordinator for the station and has already seen interest from volunteers, including a DJ and a podcaster.
The main goal of GoProud is to provide a platform for the 2SLGBTQ+ community to have a voice and to amplify their stories and experiences. The station has a website and app where listeners can enjoy a variety of music, with plans to expand programming to include punk rock by 2SLGBTQ+ artists and interviews with community elders.
Kai Skinner, vice-chair with Lunenburg Pride, emphasizes the importance of sharing stories from older members of the community to educate and inspire younger generations. In today’s political climate, it is crucial to honor the progress that has been made while acknowledging the work that still needs to be done.
GoProud is not just a radio station; it is a platform for empowerment, unity, and education within the 2SLGBTQ+ community. By providing a voice for marginalized groups and celebrating diversity, GoProud is paving the way for a more inclusive and accepting society.
