Thunderclouds are gathering near the Library and Archives Canada building in downtown Ottawa, not for stormy weather, but to mark the unveiling of a new national monument celebrating the 2SLGBTQ+ community.
Known as Thunderhead, this 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 to create a disco-like atmosphere.
Situated at the junction of Wellington Street and the Portage Bridge, Thunderhead pays tribute to the hardships faced by the 2SLGBTQ+ community, particularly during the prolonged LGBT purge conducted by the Canadian government from the 1950s to the mid-1990s.
Ross, who was discharged from the Canadian navy in 1990 due to his sexuality, later participated in a lawsuit against the government. The funds from this legal action were channeled into the realization of the monument.
Designed by a team from Winnipeg led by Liz Wreford of Architects Public City, Thunderhead symbolizes both destruction and renewal through its depiction of thunderclouds. The monument’s skylight and openings allow sunlight to reflect off the mirrored interior, creating a colorful spectacle reminiscent of lightning.
The adjacent park provides insights into the history of anti-2SLGBTQ+ discrimination in Canada. A path leads to an interpretive wall detailing the community’s struggles, including the persecution of two-spirit individuals. Additionally, a healing circle composed of stones selected by two-spirit elders from each province and territory offers a space for reflection and healing.
Michelle Douglas, executive director of the LGBT Purge Fund, views the park as a beacon of hope, where visitors can engage in personal reflection and celebrate progress. The site also serves as a venue for performances and gatherings, emphasizing its role as a living monument to acknowledge past discrimination while fostering hope for the future.
The formal opening ceremony of Thunderhead will be attended by Gov.-Gen. Louise Arbour, coinciding with the commencement of Capital Pride 2026 the following day, running until August 30th.