To the Editor,
Yes, there's been a change in leadership in Cumberland Pride (Amherst Daily News, Aug. 26). What exemplary leadership that has been.
Gerard Veldhoven cares about Canada. Not born here, he nonetheless works that Canada be a better, more equal, more inclusive country for all of us.
Gerard knows what it's like to be gay. He has personally faced opposition, many times. He knows the difficulties that gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgender, two spirit folk face. He understands the temptation to pass, to go along, not to confront. Gerard has blessedly not yielded to this temptation.
In his own life and witness, in his public wedding to Norman Carter, in his speaking and writing and advocating, Gerard continues to be a model and mentor to many in the community.
Finally, he has helped forge a community to sustain his efforts. Susan Reid is admirably suited to carry on the challenge.
Eldon Hay, Sackville
