Ottawa shows its pride

Photo credit: Aaron Hemens

The year of 2019 marks two 50-year milestones within the pride movement both globally and Canada-wide. This year’s Capital Pride has expressed its focus on progression and development, building from the social and cultural remembrances that these anniversaries provide.

It has been 50 years since the Stonewall riots of June 28^th, 1969, or, otherwise known as, the birth of pride itself. The Stonewall riots demonstrated acts seeking liberation against U.S. laws which created barriers for gender diverse communities. Along with this, 50-years has passed since the Canadian government’s movement to partially decriminalize homosexuality. These moments within the pride movement have been labelled as integral to growth. Each a stepping stone fueled by conscious reflection.

Observing these milestones through the lens of this weeks’ Capital Pride festival shows the community’s diversity, directing the spotlight on local individuals and organizations that make conscious efforts in building inclusivity and intersectionality for all.

2019 Capital Pride officially runs from now until the 25^th of August. All events are organized thoughtfully, moving to educate and celebrate respecting the 2SLGBTQ+ Ottawa region community. Some of their signature events include:

Youth Art Showcase: Taking place on Wednesday August 21 at 5:00PM, the Youth Art Showcase is an evening of art in many forms created by queer youth. The show will include live music and performance, photography, and painting. Free food and non-alcoholic drinks will be provided. 

Pride Pageant with Brooke Lynn Hytes: On Thursday August 22, the best local drag performers will compete for the titles of Mx. Capital Pride, Mr. Capital Pride and Ms. Capital Pride at the Delta City Centre Hotel. Guests can also look forward to a special performance by Queen of the North, Brooke Lynne Hytes. Host Kiki Coe and DJ Ash Gauthier will keep things moving! 

Nature Nocture – Bursting with Pride: Get ready to heat things up and celebrate diversity as Nature Nocturne bursts out in full colour. Kick off the night under the rainbow arches, explore the galleries after hours, enjoy drag performances, DJ’s, and dance the night away. Tickets are required so be sure to find yours here.

And of course, the…

Capital Pride Parade: Grab your friends and family on Sunday August 25 and join over 150 groups including community groups, sports teams, embassies and local businesses as they parade through downtown loud and proud! There will be marching contingents, floats, live music, kings and queens, and more. The parade starts at 1:30pm at Bank and Gladstone, heads north on Kent before returning to Bank Street ending at Bank and Somerset St. 

For a full list of events, visit their website and make sure to keep up with your local businesses, organizations, individuals, etc. via social media as many have pride events of their own (for example, Happy Goat Coffee is hosting an extensive list of pride events from the 21^st-25^th).