Summer is almost over (sniff), but if you’re looking for something to do in these last couple of weeks, why not take part in Calgary Pride 2016? This year marks Calgary’s 26th annual festival, running from August 26th (today!) to September 5th.
This festival is presented by ATB, through an organization called Calgary Pride, a not-for-profit that promotes equality and celebrates diversity.
I’ve been a supporter of the LGBT movement for a while now, and while I definitely knew about the parades and rallies in places like New York, Chicago, Toronto, etc. but I never knew that Calgary held it’s own pride events until a few days ago, when the event popped up in my Facebook feed.
So why are events like these so important? Sure, part of it’s about paying respect to the past, and to the struggles and the pain that the LGBT community faced (and still faces in certain places of the world), but it’s also about belonging. Pride is not being excluded because of who you love, or who you are.
Pride is a celebration. A celebration of life, of our rights, and love. The idea that love is love, and that it cannot be killed or swept aside. And that’s something that’s always worth celebrating.
During the festival, there will be various events held throughout the city, like fundraiser bingos, parties, cabarets, screenings, concerts, and of course, a parade on the final day. To see a full list of events click here.
So if you find yourself with nothing to do these next 10 days, why not go out and support Calgary Pride?
