Ellen Page attends Jamaican Pride celebrations

Out Hollywoood actor Ellen Page stepped out over the weekend in support of the inaugural Pride Jamaica, a weeklong LGBT event held in Kingston, the nation’s capital.

Posting a photograph to her Instagram account, Page took part in a flash mob event on Saturday, held outside of Emancipation Park, and was seen in Jamaica throughout the days leading up on a self-described “#gaycation”.

An image of Page also appeared on the Facebook page of J-FLAG, Jamaica’s leading LGBTI rights organisation.

Co-chair of Pride JA Latoya Nugent told Gay Star News that Page’s appearance at the event alongside 40 other participants was “magical and awe-inspiring”.

While Jamaica was identified by Attitude last year as one of the least gay-friendly holiday destinations, local LGBT support group J-FLAG are working to shift community attitudes.

But due to security fears, a flag raising opening ceremony was favoured over a pride march.

Kingston City Mayor Angela Brown-Burke who spoke at the event told the Washington Blade she had a “responsibility” to represent all of her city’s residents.

“There are individuals who are minorities who have been struggling in terms of their identity and finding their own space,” she said.

“It is important for us to provide safe spaces for them.”

Page, who rose to fame with roles in Juno and Inception, will star alongside Julianne Moore in the lesbian drama Freeheld, scheduled for release later this year – check out the trailer here.

Visit the J-FLAG Facebook page to view remaining Pride Jamaica events.

Words by TROY NANKERVIS.