This June, Waterloo Brewing is excited to be serving the SPECTRUM Oat Helles Lager in the Waterloo Brewing Taphouse. This beer was brewed in collaboration with SPECTRUM, Waterloo Region’s Rainbow Community Space, and profits from the sale of this beer will go directly to the organization.
SPECTRUM is an organization that serves, affirms, and supports the well-being of 2SLGBTQ+ individuals in Waterloo Region and the broader community through peer support, community partnerships, education and training, resources, and events. Their vision is to create an inclusive community where all 2SLGBTQ+ individuals are welcomed, celebrated, and supported as their authentic selves.
“The reason SPECTRUM was founded in 2012 was because of the need for a physical space for 2SLGBTQ+ people, because at that time all the queer bars and queer coffee shops were closing. There was a need for a physical space,” said Scott Williams, executive director of SPECTRUM.
“Currently, we’re seeing a lot of transphobia in our community. This is especially an issue for young trans and non-binary people who are seeing that their community might not be safe for them.”
Queer people and youth, Williams explained, are much more likely to experience mental health challenges and homelessness – further proving the need for 2SLGBTQ+ safe spaces in Waterloo Region.
This June, SPECTRUM has numerous events to celebrate Pride Month. These events include a partnership with the Waterloo Public Library and Idea Exchange to host trivia nights, family craft events and more. Other events include movie nights at the Apollo Cinema, a cycling event with City of Kitchener and OK2BME, queer art and literature workshops and much more. On June 16, there will also be a fundraising gala held at the Walper Hotel in Kitchener.
While Pride Month is a great time to hold events and have a good time, Williams explained that this month is not just about celebrating; it’s about education, too.
“It’s not just a party, it’s very much a protest. The work is not done,” Williams said.
SPECTRUM’s events are not just exclusive to June. To learn more about events, make a donation, get involved, inquire about workplace training programs or volunteer, visit ourspectrum.com.
To try a pint of Waterloo Brewing’s new SPECTRUM Oat Helles Lager, come by the Waterloo Brewing Taphouse to get it on draft.