On July 22nd, 2023, artist and graphic novelist Lynette Richards hosted a presentation and community art making workshop to coincide with Pride week. Her recent young adult graphic novel, Call Me Bill, evokes the life of Bill, a sailor on the SS Atlantic who defied gender expectations and left home in search of adventure and a more authentic life.

Participants were also offered a tour of artifacts in the SS Atlantic Interpretation Centre and walked down to the mass grave to commemorate Bill with the pride flag signed by everyone there.

Collages created are based on inspiration from Lynette’s presentation, museum artifacts, and the variety of art materials she shared including copies of photos and newspaper articles from the past. In 2024 Lynette will collaborate with community members and organizations to create a zine inspired by these collages.