Fort Rouge School Student Named 2024 Winnipeg Pride Parade Youth Ambassador
May 29, 2024
Kristin Pruden, a 12-year-old student at Fort Rouge School, has been chosen as the 2024 Youth Ambassador for the Winnipeg Pride Parade.
Kristin, who proudly identifies as neurodivergent and Two-Spirit, embodies the spirit of inclusivity that the parade celebrates. Her journey of self-discovery has blossomed through the vibrant tradition of Pow Wow dance.
The Pride Winnipeg’s special feature on their website mentions, “Kristin’s journey into dance began in January 2023, inspired by her auntie Gayle Pruden, a respected Two-Spirit jingle dress dancer. Determined to assert her identity within the powwow community, Kristin’s participation in the 2-spirit powwow at Manito Ahbee marked a significant milestone.
Her mission extends beyond personal fulfilment; she actively encourages other youth, especially those wrestling with uncertainty or fear, to join her on the dance floor. Kristin’s message resonates: powwows are spaces of acceptance and learning, welcoming all who are eager to participate and understand Indigenous cultures.”
Kristin has been attending Fort Rouge since Kindergarten and has really found her place as a Pow Wow dancer,” says Principal Stacie Edgar. “Her parents are incredibly supportive of her new passion, and it’s been wonderful to see her confidence grow both on and off the dance floor.”
Through her participation, Kristin aims to dismantle misconceptions and spread the message of acceptance that lies at the heart of Pow Wow celebrations.
“I love to dance because I want to show that it is okay to be who you are,” Kristin explains. “Be proud of who you are, and don't be afraid of what other people think about you; just be yourself. I am beautiful the way I am, and I am proud of myself.”
Winnipeg School Division congratulates Kristin on this prestigious honour and applauds her dedication to promoting inclusivity and celebrating diversity.
WSD students, staff and school community members are welcome to join the WSD Inclusion Across the Rainbow group at the annual Pride March on Sunday, June 2, 2024, by Pride Winnipeg.
Together, we will march in a celebration of diversity and inclusion. For more details, visit here.