Thunderclouds are forming near the Library and Archives Canada building in downtown Ottawa, but these clouds bring a different kind of atmosphere – one of celebration and contemplation for a new national monument dedicated to the 2SLGBTQ+ community.
Dubbed Thunderhead, the monument stands as a towering white column with unique cloud-shaped openings, reaching approximately nine meters in height. Todd Ross, co-chair of the LGBT Purge Fund, described the design as featuring inverted clouds within the pillar, enhanced with mirrored tiles that give the impression of being inside a massive disco ball.
Situated close to Wellington Street and the Portage Bridge, Thunderhead serves as a poignant reminder of the discrimination faced by 2SLGBTQ+ individuals across Canada, particularly during the prolonged LGBT purge orchestrated by the government. Spanning from the 1950s to the mid-1990s, this campaign saw thousands of individuals expelled from the RCMP, Canadian Armed Forces, and federal public service due to their sexual orientation.
Ross, a former Canadian navy member discharged in 1990 for being homosexual, became involved in a class-action lawsuit against the government. The proceeds from this legal action were instrumental in funding the design and construction of the monument.
The concept and design of Thunderhead were crafted by a team based in Winnipeg, led by Liz Wreford from Architects Public City. Wreford explained that the thundercloud motif symbolizes both destruction and renewal, embodying a duality that resonates with the monument’s purpose.
Featuring openings and a skylight that allow sunlight to create a kaleidoscope effect within the mirrored interior, Thunderhead mimics the dynamic nature of a thunderstorm with flickering lights. The surrounding park complements the monument, shedding light on the history of anti-2SLGBTQ+ discrimination in Canada.
Designed to be a space for reflection and celebration, the park includes an interpretive wall detailing the historical injustices faced by the community, including the persecution of two-spirit individuals. A healing circle comprising thirteen stones selected by two-spirit elders from each province and territory forms a focal point nearby.
Michelle Douglas, executive director of the LGBT Purge Fund, emphasized the park as a place for diverse experiences and emotions, offering a beacon of hope for visitors. The site is envisioned to serve as a living monument, acknowledging past discrimination while looking ahead to a more inclusive future.
With additional spaces for performances and gatherings, Thunderhead and its surrounding park aim to be versatile venues for various events, including celebrations and protests. The official opening ceremony will be graced by Gov.-Gen. Louise Arbour, followed by the commencement of Capital Pride 2026 festivities the next day, running until Aug. 30.