OTTAWA, ON, July 27, 2026 /CNW/ -- Members of the media are invited to attend the formal opening of Thunderhead, the 2SLGBTQI+ National Monument, on Friday, August 21, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. in Ottawa.

Called Thunderhead, the 2SLGBTQI+ National Monument, is a soaring, 11-metre structure and public space that recognizes historic discrimination faced by 2SLGBTQI+ communities in Canada, as well as the challenges that remain. The monument acknowledges the colonial roots of homophobia and transphobia and also honours victims of the historic LGBT Purge, when queer members of the Canadian Armed Forces, the RCMP, and the public service were systematically harassed and fired.

Nestled in a stunning park by the Ottawa River, Thunderhead will be a beacon of hope and inspire the change still needed for full 2SLGBTQI+inclusion. It celebrates all queer and trans communities and stories of pride, resilience and love.

Thunderhead was paid for entirely by the LGBT Purge Fund through a class action lawsuit won by LGBT Purge survivors. It has been developed by the Fund in collaboration with the Department of Canadian Heritage and the National Capital Commission.

The event will bring together community leaders, survivors of the LGBT Purge, representatives of the local First Nations, families, partners, allies and distinguished guests to mark this significant national moment. 

More about the monument and its origins is available at www.thunderheadmonument.ca

Event details

Speakers

Remarks will be delivered by:

• Michelle Douglas, Executive Director, LGBT Purge Fund
• Martine Roy C.M., Co-Chair of the Board of Directors, LGBT Purge Fund
• Todd Ross, Co-Chair of the Board of Directors, LGBT Purge Fund
• More to be announced at a later date

Media accreditation / RSVP

• Members of the media are invited to attend the event as media representatives and can reach out directly to the contact information below to register for accreditation by August 20th at 5:00 p.m. EST.
• Accredited media will receive confirmation and any additional attendance details in advance of the event.

Interview and coverage opportunities

Credentialed media may have access to:

• Opening ceremony visuals
• Remarks from event speakers
• Photo and b-roll opportunities
• Designated interview opportunities with approved spokespeople following the formal program

Additional details on interview availability, site access and technical arrangements will be provided to accredited media closer to the event.

SOURCE LGBT Purge Fund