After seven years, Pride Parade returns to the streets of Edmonton
After a seven-year hiatus, the Edmonton Pride Parade is making a triumphant return to the streets of the city. LGBTQ+ community members and allies are gearing up for the Saturday afternoon parade, which is considered part of the largest pride event in the prairies. The parade was canceled in 2019 due to protests and disagreements about the involvement of law enforcement, but organizers are thrilled to bring it back this year.
Trevor Watson, with the Edmonton Pridefest Association, expressed his excitement about the parade’s return. He mentioned that for many community members, this will be their first pride parade experience, especially for queer youth who have never had the opportunity to attend one before.
The renewed parade will be led by the first Edmonton Trans March for visibility and equality, organized by Raricanow, a non-profit advocating for LGBTQ+ refugees and newcomers. The march aims to protest against the continuous attacks on the trans community, particularly in light of recent legislation in Alberta that affects transgender individuals.
Three controversial bills were passed last year in Alberta, impacting transgender rights. One bill requires children under 16 to have permission to change their names or pronouns at school, while another prohibits transgender athletes from competing in female amateur sports. A third bill prevents doctors from providing gender-confirming care to individuals under 16. While the first two bills will take effect on September 1, a judicial order has temporarily halted the third.
Watson emphasized the importance of recognizing and elevating transgender individuals, stating that pride should be celebrated year-round. In addition to the parade, the Edmonton Pride Festival Association will host artisanal markets, food trucks, live performances, and meet-and-greets with prominent figures like singer Fefe Dobson, Youtuber Kelly, and Drag Queens Willam and Alaska. Attendees will also have the opportunity to meet American actor and transgender lawyer Angelica Ross.
The return of the Edmonton Pride Parade signifies a significant moment for the LGBTQ+ community in Edmonton, offering a platform for visibility, equality, and celebration. The event promises to be a vibrant and inclusive gathering that celebrates diversity and unity within the community.
