A TOURING pride event that's heading to Wangaratta, Healing Together: A Pride Strength Tour, recently received $10,000 from the State Government as part of the Regional Activation Program of Victoria’s Pride, delivered by LGBTQIA+ arts and cultural organisation Midsumma.

Healing Together: A Pride Strength Tour is a touring exhibition held by What Were You Wearing (WWYW) that will travel through Wangaratta, Bendigo and Geelong.

Local organiser for the event, Shantelle van der Leeuw, said the exhibition aims to educate the community and allow for healing for LGBTQIA+ victims-survivors and their loved ones.

Ms van der Leeuw said the funding will support the event in many ways, including logistical support, access to resources, art supplies and materials, community outreach, inclusive programming and compensating facilitators and speakers.

“Funding will cover essential costs like venue rental, transportation for the three-city tour, and materials needed to set up the exhibition and healing days,” she said.

“State funding ensures that the event can be inclusive of all participants, allowing for tailored programs that are culturally sensitive and trauma-informed, particularly for Indigenous LGBTQIA+ victim-survivors.”

The touring exhibition is one of 12 regional pride events to receive this funding and Ms van der Leeuw said state funding for marginalised communities, including the LGBTQIA+ community is essential for education and reducing stigmas.

“State-backed initiatives help raise public awareness about critical issues affecting marginalised groups,” she said.

“By funding such programs, the government can support efforts to normalize discussions about these issues, reduce isolation, and encourage broader societal acceptance.

“Government funding empowers marginalised communities to lead their own initiatives, fostering a sense of belonging and resilience.

“It also signals that the government recognises and values their contributions, helping to build trust between these communities and state institutions.”

According to Ms van der Leeuw, the event will be split into three parts, the touring of the WWYW exhibition for four days in each city, one healing day per city and an information night to foster self-expression, resilience and community support.

“Our project underscores the message that pride is about living authentically, embracing diversity, and building a community where everyone can feel safe and valued,” she said.

“The healing groups provide a platform for victim-survivors to express their emotions and experiences through art therapy, journaling, mindfulness exercises, breathwork, and talk therapy.

“Our information night offers a crucial opportunity for loved ones and carers to learn how to support victim-survivors effectively.

“The exhibition highlights the personal journeys of healing and resilience and the opening night event, featuring a panel discussion and community gathering, encourages dialogue and solidarity.”

Currently there are no local dates and locations set in stone, however the exhibition is set to tour the three regional cities in January of next year.

For more information on Victoria’s Pride Regional Activation Program visit midsumma.org.au/regional-activations.