Thunderclouds are gathering near the Library and Archives Canada building in downtown Ottawa, not for a storm, but to mark the unveiling of a new national monument celebrating the 2SLGBTQ+ community.
Named Thunderhead, the monument stands as a nine-meter tall white column adorned with cloud-shaped openings. Todd Ross, co-chair of the LGBT Purge Fund, described the unique design featuring inverted clouds within the pillar, embellished with mirrored tiles for a disco ball effect.
Situated at the junction of Wellington Street and the Portage Bridge, Thunderhead pays tribute to the hardships faced by the 2SLGBTQ+ community in Canada, notably during the prolonged LGBT purge conducted by the government. From the 1950s to the mid-1990s, thousands of individuals were investigated and dismissed from positions within the RCMP, Canadian Armed Forces, and federal public service due to their sexual orientation.
Todd Ross, who was discharged from the Canadian navy in 1990 based on his sexuality, later joined a class-action lawsuit against the government. The proceeds from this legal action were utilized to fund the design and construction of the Thunderhead monument.
Designed by a team led by Liz Wreford of Architects Public City in Winnipeg, Thunderhead symbolizes both destruction and renewal through its representation of thunderclouds. The column’s skylight and openings allow sunlight to illuminate the mirrored interior, creating a vibrant display of colors akin to a kaleidoscope. The flickering lights within the structure mimic lightning flashes during a storm.
The park surrounding the monument serves as an educational space shedding light on the history of discrimination against the 2SLGBTQ+ community in Canada. An interpretive wall narrates this history, including the mistreatment of two-spirit individuals by the government. Additionally, a healing circle composed of thirteen stones selected by two-spirit elders from each province and territory forms a central feature.
Michelle Douglas, executive director of the LGBT Purge Fund, envisions the park as a place for diverse experiences and emotions, offering reflection and hope. The site aims to serve as a living monument, acknowledging past discrimination while looking towards a more inclusive future.
With facilities for performances and gatherings, the monument and its park are designed to be spaces for both celebration and activism. Todd Ross emphasized the versatility of the location, intending for it to be utilized for various purposes, including protests during challenging times.
The official opening ceremony of Thunderhead will be attended by Gov.-Gen. Louise Arbour, with Capital Pride 2026 commencing the following day and running until August 30th.
