October 31, 2025 | Port Dover, ON – Lighthouse Festival is proud to announce that it has been named a finalist for the Canadian Queer Chamber of Commerce’s (CQCC) 2025 Business Awards, specifically for the inaugural Rainbow Registered PRISM Award.
The new award recognizes businesses that go above and beyond Rainbow Registered accreditation to become visible champions of 2SLGBTQI+ inclusion in their industry and community. Recipients exemplify leadership in embedding diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) across all areas of their organization, including:
- Workplace culture: Creating a safe, welcoming environment where 2SLGBTQI+ employees can thrive.
- Client experience: Ensuring every patron and visitor feels respected, represented, and included.
- Community engagement: Actively supporting and participating in 2SLGBTQI+ initiatives across the region.
- Operational practices: Upholding progressive, non-discriminatory policies that celebrate all identities.
This is the first year the PRISM Award will be presented, marking a major milestone in recognizing Canadian organizations that are leading the way in inclusive business practices. The 2025 CQCC Business Leadership Awards will take place on Friday, November 14, at The CARLU in Toronto.
“Being recognized as a finalist for the PRISM Award is deeply meaningful to everyone at Lighthouse Festival,” said Don Kearney-Bourque, Marketing & Communications Manager. “Our goal has always been to be a beacon for equality and to ensure our theatres are spaces where all people feel safe, celebrated, and seen. We’re proud to stand alongside other leaders who share that vision, and we’ll continue to be a voice for those who sometimes feel marginalized.”
Lighthouse Festival is honoured to represent Norfolk County and the Niagara Region on the national stage, shining a light on how rural arts organizations can drive meaningful change through inclusion and visibility.
For a full list of nominees or to find out more about the CQCC’s 2025 Business Awards, please visit https://queerchamber.ca/event/10th-annual-black-white-gala/.
About Lighthouse Festival
Lighthouse Festival is a charitable organization devoted to the development and production of new and existing Canadian plays. Lighthouse Festival strives to be artistically excellent, support and encourage local and regional artists, and be a source of enjoyment and pride in local communities while promoting local tourism. Located in two beautiful towns on Lake Erie, our theatres operate on a central policy of hospitality, inclusivity, accessibility, and affordability for all.
Media Contact
For media inquiries, interview requests, or further information, please contact:
Don Kearney-Bourque
Marketing & Communications Manager
Lighthouse Festival Theatre Corporation
[email protected]
Direct: (226) 290-0070
Cell: (289)541-7410
