Thunderclouds are gathering near the Library and Archives Canada building in downtown Ottawa, but these clouds bring celebration and reflection for a new national monument dedicated to the 2SLGBTQ+ community.
Named Thunderhead, this monument stands approximately nine meters tall and features cloud-shaped openings within a white column. Todd Ross, co-chair of the LGBT Purge Fund, described the monument as having inverted clouds inside the pillar, lined with mirrored tiles to create a disco ball effect.
Situated near the intersection of Wellington Street and the Portage Bridge, Thunderhead is a symbol recognizing the discrimination faced by the 2SLGBTQ+ community in Canada, particularly during the government’s prolonged campaign known as the LGBT purge.
The monument’s design, led by Liz Wreford of Architects Public City in Winnipeg, uses thunderclouds as a metaphor for both destruction and renewal. The column’s skylight allows sunlight to illuminate the mirrored interior, creating a colorful kaleidoscope effect, while flickering lights inside mimic lightning during a storm.
The surrounding park complements the monument by shedding light on the history of anti-2SLGBTQ+ discrimination in Canada. It includes an interpretive wall detailing the community’s struggles and a healing circle formed by stones chosen by two-spirit elders from each province and territory.
Michelle Douglas, executive director of the LGBT Purge Fund, described the park as a place for various experiences and emotions, serving as a beacon of hope for visitors. The site aims to honor the past while also looking towards a more inclusive future.
The park also features spaces for performances and gatherings, offering a versatile environment for celebrations and protests. Todd Ross envisions the monument and park as a gathering place during difficult times, serving multiple purposes that the community can be proud of.
The official opening ceremony of Thunderhead will be attended by Gov.-Gen. Louise Arbour, with Capital Pride 2026 starting the next day and running until August 30.