Canadian pride festivals are feeling the impact of the rollback of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI) programs, with Toronto Pride and Vancouver Pride both facing significant funding cuts this year.

Toronto Pride has lost a staggering $900,000 in support this year, a direct result of the rollback of DEI programs in the United States. This loss of funding has forced the organization to make difficult decisions and cut back on programming and events.

Similarly, Vancouver Pride has also been hit hard by the rollback of DEI programs, losing approximately 50% of their sponsorship. This loss of financial support has put a strain on the organization and has impacted their ability to deliver a full and inclusive Pride festival.

Despite these challenges, both Toronto Pride and Vancouver Pride remain committed to their mission of celebrating and advocating for the LGBTQ+ community. They are actively seeking alternative sources of funding and support to ensure that their festivals continue to be a safe and welcoming space for all.

It is imperative that we recognize the importance of DEI programs and the impact they have on organizations like pride festivals. By supporting these programs, we can help ensure that events like Toronto Pride and Vancouver Pride continue to thrive and serve as beacons of inclusion and acceptance in our communities.