A Rainbow Bench is being unveiled today in honour of a co-founder of Pride Haldimand-Norfolk.
The event will take place today in the Dunnville Lions Park at 4 p.m. to remember Ken Hancock, who passed away in March, 2021.
Sue Wilkins, a member of The Rainbow Bench Team, explained the significance of the location chosen.
Hancock would have been able to see the bench from his window at the Maple Grove assisted living facility across the street from the park.
As a straight man in the 1970’s and 80’s, Hancock provided security at LGBTQIA+ events as he was not afraid to confront the hate and violence geared towards the community.
After hearing about the shooting at Pulse in Orlando, Florida, in 2016, he wanted to do something locally.
All of the money for the bench was raised by community donations, including $4,500 from an online fundraiser, and $2,200 from Dunnville Rotary.
Members of Pride Haldimand-Norfolk, members of the Two Spirit and LGBTQIA+ community, and allies are welcome to attend the event at 4 p.m. today in the Dunnville Lions Park.
Written by Ashley Taylor
