For our first-ever Pride Month, we’ve curated 33 days of dynamic programming, full of history-making partnerships and record-breaking firsts. A diverse team of talented curators collaborated with community and cultural partners to fill your calendar with sensational events from June 1 to July 3. This month of expanded programming wouldn’t be possible without the tremendous support of our friends and sponsors—a special thank you to all. This year, we commemorate the 35th anniversary of the infamous Bathhouse Raids and honour those who bravely took to the streets to put an end to police brutality and criminalization. This moment is widely recognized as the catalyst for the Pride movement in Toronto. Our theme, You Can Sit With Us, reflects Pride as an inclusive space where everyone is welcome to celebrate and be who they are. It also highlights our ongoing work to combat discrimination in our community along the intersections of race, gender identity and expression, ability and age. Pride will offer opportunities to have these important conversations and explore current human rights issues. We will host a series of panel discussions
that look at the struggles and triumphs of trans youth, the history of women’s activism, the queer Black experience, and the persecution of our community in Egypt. We will also extend a warm welcome to queer refugees and newcomers to Canada throughout the month, and especially during our final weekend Join us on July 3 as we make history when the Rt. Hon. Justin Trudeau becomes the first sitting Prime Minister to march in our annual parade. Ontario Premier Kathleen Wynne and her partner Jane Rounthewaite and Toronto Mayor John Tory will also proudly participate in this unforgettable event. This Pride Month you can sit with us, dance with us, think with us, march with us and celebrate the power and beauty of our diverse community. We can’t wait to see you—Happy Pride!
Aaron GlynWilliams Alica Hall Co-Chairs Mathieu Chantelois Executive Director
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A MESSAGE FROM OUR PRIME MINISTER Dear Friends: I am delighted to extend my warmest greetings to everyone taking part in Toronto’s first-ever Pride Month. With the theme “You Can Sit With Us,” this event celebrates the unique culture and spirit of our Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Trans, Queer and Two-Spirited community. Events like Pride Month allow Canadians to come together to celebrate the rich diversity that is at the heart of our national identity. Over the years, Canada has made significant progress in affording members of our LGBTQ2+ community respect, recognition and legal rights, but there remains much more to be done, both at home and abroad. It is important to remember that we must all continue in the fight against discrimination and support all those who have experienced it. I would like to commend the organizers for their commitment to promoting unity, inclusion and awareness of sexual and gender diversity. I would also like to thank the many volunteers whose enthusiasm and hard work are vital to the success of this outstanding month of activities. Please accept my best wishes for a memorable experience. Sincerely,
The Rt. Hon. Justin P.J. Trudeau, P.C., M.P. Prime Minister of Canada
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A MESSAGE FROM OUR PREMIER On behalf of the Government of Ontario, I am delighted to welcome everyone to Pride Toronto’s 2016 Pride Month. LGBTQ Pride events are, fundamentally, a celebration of love and of identity. They are a community’s way of expressing this powerful truth: that no matter who we love or how we identify, we have a right to be respected and treated equally. This year’s Pride Month theme, “You Can Sit With Us,” invites the whole Toronto community to celebrate the inclusive and welcoming society we are building together. During my lifetime, I have seen issues of gay rights march from the margins to the centre of Canada’s national discourse. Today, we lead in LGBTQ civil rights and equality. We have made much progress in terms of equality and empowerment, but there is still much work to be done. We will continue this journey of empowerment, together — to challenge prejudices, break down barriers, end sexual violence and harassment, close the gender wage gap, and promote job creation and economic growth. I want to give a big shout out to everyone at Pride Toronto for setting the stage for joyful expressions and positive conversation. You are fabulous! Best wishes for another successful festival!
Kathleen Wynne Premier of Ontario
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A MESSAGE FROM OUR MAYOR It gives me great pleasure to extend congratulations and warm wishes to the organizers and participants of Pride Toronto 2016. Pride Toronto is the largest Pride celebration in North America. With a 2016 theme of “You Can Sit With Us,” it is one of our country’s premier arts and cultural festivals that celebrates the history, courage and diversity of Toronto’s Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Transsexual, Intersex, Queer, Questioning, Two Spirited communities and Allies (LGBTTIQQ2SA). Toronto’s first-ever Pride Month this year marks the 35th anniversary of Toronto's 1981 Bathhouse Raids, the catalyst for mass protests that spurred the development of Pride in our city. This significant anniversary will unite and empower people with diverse sexual orientations, gender identities and expressions across our entire city and culminate in the annual streetfair, marches and of course, the much-anticipated Pride Parade. The city is proud of organizations and individuals that are committed to making a difference. I thank Pride Toronto for their dedication to create a future where community members are accepted, valued, and celebrated. On behalf of Toronto City Council, I extend a warm welcome to everyone visiting Toronto for this event and wish you an enjoyable and memorable stay. Yours truly,
Mayor John Tory City of Toronto
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A MESSAGE FROM OUR CITY COUNCILLOR Welcome to Toronto’s 2016 Pride Month! Our communities have seen monumental changes in LGBTQ rights and organizing here in Toronto and across Canada. As Pride Toronto launches our country’s first ever Pride Month, we mark another milestone in a movement that has expanded our culture, while still fighting for the basic rights of the most marginalized among us. This year’s theme “You Can Sit With Us” is a testament to both the celebration and activism that continues to define the hard work of the LGBTQ community, including allies and yourself. Pride Toronto has been a voice of protest following the Bathhouse Raids, a support community for those coming out and dealing with discrimination, the voice educating generations on issues around equality and inclusion, and a cultural institution that has not only elevated LGBTQ voices, but has raised the profile of Toronto, Ontario, and Canada as a dynamic and vibrant society. I offer my warmest greetings to everyone joining in this year’s celebration and a big thank you to Pride Toronto for its incredible success. Best wishes,
Kristyn Wong-Tam City Councillor Ward 27 - Toronto Centre-Rosedale
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HONO URED PO SITION S Aydian Dowling IN T E RN AT I ONA L G R A N D MA RSHA L Bodybuilder, trans activist and New York vlogger Aydian Dowling made runner up in last year’s Men’s Health Ultimate Guy competition with more than 72,000 reader votes. The response was so overwhelming that the magazine issued a special collector's edition that featured Aydian on the cover – a first for a trans man. While fundraising for his top surgery in 2011, Aydian founded Point 5cc, a stealth clothing company and the first of its kind designed to highlight trans commonalities and create a sense of pride. Through his company, Aydian developed the first binder exchange program operating internationally, and hosts annual trans surgery funds. Aydian hopes to inspire others to embrace his community’s journey to authenticity as he continues to fight for trans rights, inclusivity and visibility. Defining success as breaking barriers, Aydian has found confidence by becoming his true self. And that’s inspiring all of us.
The Prancing Elites
INTERNATIONAL HONOURED GUESTS
The Prancing Elites, stars of the hit reality television series The Prancing Elites Project, are a dance team based in Mobile, Alabama, comprised of five fierce and bold individuals. Team captain and founder Kentrell Collins, along with best friends Adrian Clemons, Kareem Davis, Jerel Maddox and Timothy Smith have fought to be accepted in the female-dominated dance culture of J-Setting. Having been excluded from competitions and banned from countless parades, The Prancing Elites have found other ways to showcase their talent: from dancing in the stands at college football games to performing on boat cruises. The group, which includes gender non-conforming members, wishes to empower the world by inspiring others to break boundaries and live their lives fully and openly.
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Salah Bachir G RAN D M A R S H A L Salah Bachir is a ferocious and fearless humanist who has been fighting for our rights for decades. An avid and engaged art collector, he is driven by a spirit of generosity, a commitment to upholding human rights and dedication to the Middle Eastern community, here and abroad. President of Cineplex Media and publisher of the Cineplex movie magazines, Salah has served on numerous boards and committees to support the arts, children’s education and our community. The Lebanon Project, The 519 and the Canadian Federation for AIDS Research are just a few of the organizations that benefit from his passion, philanthropy and leadership. In recognition of his generosity and contributions to arts, he was recently awarded honorary doctorate degrees from three Canadian universities (York, Ryerson and the University of Alberta). With his husband Jacob Yerex, Salah has sponsored and welcomed several Syrian refugee families to our community. A proud supporter and friend of Pride Toronto for many years, his Lebanese heritage is the inspiration for this year’s bold and fabulous Middle Eastern community showcase. This year, many queer refugees, along with Lebanese pop singer Hamed Sinno of Mashrou Leila, will experience their first Pride Parade on July 3. Salah looks forward to inviting them to join the parade.
Vivek Shraya G RAN D M A R S H A L Vivek Shraya is one of Toronto's trans community's most acclaimed voices. This multimedia artist does it all, expressing her experiences and views as a trans woman of colour through music, performance, literature and film. From albums and poetry, to films and novels, Vivek is a three-time Lambda Literary Award finalist, a 2015 Toronto Arts Foundation Emerging Artist Award finalist, and a 2015 recipient of the Writers’ Trust of Canada’s Dayne Ogilvie Prize Honour of Distinction. When she’s not writing as the Associate Editor of Heartbeats – a website featuring racialized artists and stories – you can find her performing as one half of Too Attached. Together with her brother, the group has released albums ranging from acoustic folk-rock to electro synth-pop, and performed internationally with Tegan & Sara and Dragonette.
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HONO URED PO SITION S
Black Lives Matter Toronto HO N O U R E D GR OU P Black Lives Matter Toronto is the Canadian chapter of the movement created in 2012 to actively and globally resist the dehumanization of Black people. The Toronto chapter has made headlines calling for the elimination of carding, seeking justice for killings, both locally and globally, collecting race-based data and combatting anti-blackness by demonstrating that Black hair is beautiful and establishing #BLMTOTentCity this spring at the Toronto Police Headquarters. Black Lives Matter Toronto is rebuilding the Black liberation movement and striving for Black validity. The group aims to highlight and challenge anti-blackness in our community while celebrating the beauty and ferociousness of Black queer, trans and gender diverse Torontonians.
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Jordyn Samuels YOUTH A MBASSA DOR Jordyn, age 26, has more than nine years’ experience facilitating equity and anti-oppression workshops and training. She is currently majoring in Equity Studies and Sexual Diversity Studies at the University of Toronto and focuses on implementing equity and antioppressive frameworks in everyday life and in political, sexual health and harm reduction programs. Jordyn was nominated for this title by Supporting Our Youth (SOY), a program designed to improve the lives of lesbian, gay, bisexual, transsexual and transgendered youth in Toronto, and has been a youth ambassador for SOY HEAT (Human Rights Equity Access Team) since 2010. A dedicated leader in the youth community, Jordyn hopes to find a career that reflects and complements her journeys thus far.
WEDNESDAY JUNE 1 QUEEN’S PARK 111 WELLESLEY STREET WEST 9AM
On your marks, get set, Pride! Pride Month officially begins with the annual flag raising ceremony at Queen's Park at 9AM on the first of June. Join Premier Kathleen Wynne, powerhouse community leaders and honourable guests as the Pride colours are hoisted upon the most important flagpole in the province. It all starts here! If you just can’t wait until June to show your Pride, join Toronto Mayor John Tory and City Councillor Kristyn Wong-Tam at City Hall one day before. The official Pride Month proclamation will be read at noon on Tuesday, May 31 at this Pride flag raising ceremony at City Hall, 100 Queen Street West.
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In partnership with the Ontario Public Service Pride Network
THURSDAY JUNE 2 ART GALLERY OF ONTARIO 317 DUNDAS STREET WEST 7PM – 11:30PM
RON ATHEY
For the Pride First Thursday at the AGO, legendary Torontobased artist, filmmaker, writer and photographer Bruce LaBruce was invited to take the reigns for the night. Bruce invited four of his favourite queer performers, each of whom are resolutely forging their own unique aesthetic and politic yet, in his words, “loosely aligned in terms of avantgarde practice and spirit, as well as gender and sex radicalism.” Los Angeles-based performance artist Ron Athey has been at the forefront of his field since the 1980s, exploring myths and historical tropes of homosexual representation and the pathologizing of the queer body through the lens of camp aesthetics and political intervention. New York-based Narcissister similarly plays with the historical and political paradoxes of female representation relative to race, gender and feminism. Also from New York, No Bra is a musician and artist whose work challenges easy conceptions of gender and sexual identity from a stark and unique feminist perspective. And finally, Gio Black Peter, the internationally renowned queer musician and artist, will act as Special DJ and Minister in Charge of Insane Party Atmosphere.
Curated by
BRUCE LABRUCE
All in all, an Ambivalently Hostile Pride Take-over of First Thursday that is designed to shake the habitual!
Tickets Advance tickets: $13 / $11 for AGO Members At the door: $16 / $14 for AGO Members Buy tickets at AGO.net
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Presented in partnership with Art Gallery of Ontario and Inside Out LGBT Film Festival
SUNDAY JUNE 5 CENTREVILLE THEME PARK CENTRE ISLAND 10:30AM – 8PM
Centreville Theme Park is proudly hosting the 1st Annual Family Pride Day on Toronto's historic Centre Island. Surrounded by 600 acres of pristine parkland, Centreville has more than 30 rides and 20 delicious food outlets! The park is a short ferry ride from the Jack Layton Ferry Terminal at 9 Queen’s Quay. Children and adults can enjoy a spin on the antique carousel, a rollercoaster ride on the Toronto Island Mine Coaster or cool off on the Log Flume. The friendly mascot, Beasley Bear, will be there for photos, high-fives and hugs!
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Free theme park and farm admission. Get more information and purchase discounted ride tickets with code “Pride2016” at CentreIsland.ca
TUESDAY JUNE 7 THE 519 519 CHURCH STREET 7PM
On February 5, 1981, police raided Toronto’s gay baths and arrested 286 men on bawdy house charges. The raids, carried out with calculated brutality and overt homophobia, resulted in extensive property damage. An immediate and sustained grassroots response led by the Right to Privacy Committee (RTPC) included massive demonstrations, fundraising to cover court costs, legal coordination, media outreach and alliances with racialized groups similarly harassed by police. In the end, more than 80% of those charged were acquitted and our community emerged as a visible and vibrant part of the city’s mosaic, transforming the social landscape forever. This panel on the community impact of the raids features author Margaret Atwood, who spoke out forcefully at the time of the raids; Metropolitan Community Church Senior Pastor Rev. Dr. Brent Hawkes, who began a hunger strike to force an official enquiry; Susan Cole, journalist and a member of the Broadside Feminist collective; Dennis Findlay, coordinator of the RTPC’s Court Watch program; Gary Kinsman, a member of the RTPC steering committee; and Share Newspaper columnist Ajamu Nangwaya. The panel will be chaired by Loralee Gillis, a founder of Pussy Palace, Toronto Women's Bathhouse Committee.
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MARGARET ATWOOD
In partnership with
WEDNESDAY JUNE 8 THE GREAT HALL, OCAD UNIVERSITY 100 MCCAUL STREET 6:30PM
Join Chicago-based visual artist Cheryl Pope for the opening of this new, site-specific exhibition. In partnership with Onsite Gallery, Pope led workshops with OCAD University students and the local community to create objects for listening, using both design and art disciplines. This is the first Pope exhibit in Canada and OCAD U student works will also be exhibited alongside the collaborative works. ONSITE Exhibition: June 8 – July 4 Monday to Thursday, 7:30AM – 10:30PM Friday, 7:30AM – 7:30PM
WEDNESDAY JUNE 15 6:30PM
Everyone is welcome to join this free, open mic digital image slam for artists and designers where anything goes! Bring images of your art and design projects on a USB key and sign up to have your work projected for all to see. Cheryl Pope will be in attendance!
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THURSDAY JUNE 9
Image courtesy of TIFF's Film Reference Library
TIFF BELL LIGHTBOX 350 KING STREET WEST 9PM
Margaret Thatcher's iron-fisted rule over 1980s Britain prompted waves of political protest, but perhaps the most amazing response of all occurred when Welsh coal miners and London lesbians and gays found a common cause. Pride tells the unlikely true story of a band of out-and-proud activists who formed Lesbians and Gays Support the Miners (LGSM) and crashed into a small Welsh mining community that had become a flashpoint for Thatcher’s battles with the unions. Featuring a stellar cast that includes Paddy Considine, Imelda Staunton, Bill Nighy and Dominic West, Pride highlights the long history of solidarity between the LGBTQ and labour movements in advocating for rights, respect and dignity. Before the film, join us along with Mike Jackson, co-founder of LGSM, for a discussion of pride and labour solidarity in Ontario and how queer and labour communities have united in political mobilization, resulting in the strengthening of legislative rights. Many queer activists are labour leaders and have played key leadership roles in winning sexual orientation and gender identity rights in Ontario and across the county.
Tickets Available starting May 25 at tiff.net/pride
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Presented by TIFF in partnership with Pride Toronto and Ontario Federation of Labour
FRIDAY JUNE 10
A breakout hit at Sundance Film Festival, Sean Baker's Tangerine follows transgender sex worker Sin-Dee Rella (Kitana Kiki Rodriguez) and her best friend Alexandra (Mya Taylor) as they traverse Los Angeles in search of SinDee's cheating boyfriend. Shot exclusively on an iPhone 5, this daring indie drama explores the lived reality of trans individuals and advances the conversation about inclusion in the film industry. Following our free screening of Tangerine, we are honoured to welcome star Mya Taylor— who this year became the first trans actress to win a major film prize when she took home an Independent Spirit Award for Best Supporting Female—for an onstage conversation about the making of the film, and her portrayal of legendary trans activist Marsha P. Johnson in the upcoming short Happy Birthday, Marsha!
Tickets Free and open to the public, tickets will be available for pick-up from the box office at TIFF Bell Lightbox beginning June 10 at 10AM. For more info, please visit tiff.net/pride
Presented by TIFF in partnership with Pride Toronto
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Photo credit: Daniel Bergeron
TIFF BELL LIGHTBOX 350 KING STREET WEST 12PM
TUESDAY JUNE 14 THE 519 519 CHURCH STREET 7PM
TEDDY SYRETTE JAE DELACRUZ STEF PELOZA DANI ARAYA
All over the world, we are witnessing a new frontier in human rights activism, with transgender folks the focus of civil rights conversations. Proposed legislation in the United States specifically targets trans youth, in an effort to discriminate against LGBT people as a whole, while Canada still has much further to go to achieve trans rights equality. Young trans activists will discuss how their lives have changed for the better, how they want to influence thought and behavior, and some of the ways the platforms for speaking about equality are used for and against transgender people. Panelists include two-spirited genderqueer activist Teddy Syrette (Batchewana First Nation, Sault Ste. Marie), transgender man of colour Jae Delacruz (Toronto), YouTube personality and transgender woman Stef Peloza (Toronto), and The 519’s Education and Training Facilitator, two-spirited transgender woman of colour Dani Araya (Toronto).
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In partnership with
Media Sponsor
WEDNESDAY JUNE 15 THE SECOND CITY MAINSTAGE 51 MERCER STREET 10:30PM
Dust off your kinky boots, pull that wig off the shelf and brush up on your Kander and Ebb, because The Second City, Acting Up Stage Company and Theatre 20 have created an interactive show tunes extravaganza! Inspired by our favourite piano bars in New York and L.A., Show Tunes Karaoke! is your chance to grab a drink, cozy up to a cabaret table and belt out your favourite tunes, from Broadway standards to the new classics. Raise your voice for a cause, with proceeds going to Theatre 20 and Gilda’s Club, a support community for anyone touched by cancer. The evening will be hosted by Nug Nahrgang, a musical actor, improviser and Second City Touring Company alum and Jennifer Walls, of Toronto’s premier musical theatre open stage, SINGular Sensation. Send your song requests to @SecondCityTO with hashtag #singshowtunes.
Tickets Tickets: $10 (+HST) Available at SecondCity.com and the Second City Box Office.
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THURSDAY JUNE 16 THE 519 519 CHURCH STREET 7PM
Social Justice, Queer Rights and the Arab Winter
Hundreds of queer Egyptians have been among the victims of the country’s massive human rights violations since the 2013 coup. Police target vulnerable queers through online entrapment and bathhouse raids, keeping more people imprisoned for their sexuality and gender expression than any other country in the world. This talk examines how these abuses relate to other state crimes and the role of the Obama administration in supporting the Sisi regime. Nayrouz Abu Hatoum, a York University doctoral candidate in Social Anthropology whose work has appeared in Jadaliyya, Sawt Al Niswa and Al-Akhbar, will introduce the lecture. Scott Long, founding director of Human Rights Watch's Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender Rights Program, is a human rights fellow at Harvard Law School. He will talk about living in Cairo over the last three years and his work with Egyptian activists in response to the mounting crackdown on sexuality and gender.
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In partnership with
FRIDAY JUNE 17 ROY THOMSON HALL 60 SIMCOE STREET 10PM
Join the Toronto Symphony Orchestra for Beethoven’s mighty “Eroica” Symphony, plus the world premiere of a new concerto for electric violin by R.E.M.’s Mike Mills. Stay late for live music, beverages and laughter at a post-concert party for musicians and audience members alike. Come hear why the Master’s Third Symphony caused a sensation and changed the idea of what a symphony could be in this celebration of connection and community. Beethoven can sit with us, too!
Tickets Bring your friends! $20 tickets when you buy 3 or more (promo code: PRIDETORONTO). Order now at TSO.ca
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FRIDAY JUNE 17 FLY 2.0 6 GLOUCESTER STREET 10:30PM
One, two, three, four, five, six! Shake it, dude! Queer as Folk’s fictional nightclub comes to life again for a special celebration of this iconic TV show. Fly 2.0, Toronto's biggest and busiest gay nightclub, gained worldwide recognition as the location of Babylon in the American series. You’ll recognize the décor, the electrifying dance music and the go-go boys wearing the original QAF costumes in a sweaty maze of beautiful people. Randy Harrison, who played Justin — one of television’s most famous gay characters — will be hosting the celebrations. Harris Allan (James “Hunter” Montgomery in QAF) is now a Vancouver-based DJ and he’ll be here to spin some tunes. Our very own Sofonda Cox will recreate some of her legendary numbers but there’s no word yet if Randy will reprise his role as the King of Babylon. You’ll have to come out to Fly 2.0 – for one night only – to find out.
RANDY HARRISON
Tickets Early Bird Tickets: $20 Available at PrideToronto.com/Babylon
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SATURDAY JUNE 18 CANADA’S WONDERLAND 9580 JANE STREET, VAUGHAN 10AM – 10PM
Take your family to Canada’s Wonderland, as Pride Toronto partners with PFLAG Canada for the 8th annual Gay Day! Wear red to show your support for our youth and families on all Wonderland rides. Fling glitter from the rollercoasters to promote the services of PFLAG Canada and cheer on the shining drag queens to raise funds for muchneeded programs across the region.
In partnership with
Tickets For admission pricing visit CanadasWonderland.com/PFLAG All tickets include a $5 donation to PFLAG
A buffet barbecue dinner and show, featuring DJ Lady Coleco and hosted by the inimitable Deb Pearce, are included in the price of admission for a family friendly, queer focused, thrill seekers’ delight.
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SATURDAY JUNE 18 BUDDIES IN BAD TIMES THEATRE 12 ALEXANDER STREET 8PM / AFTERPARTY 11PM
presents
A Night of Spiritual Pride Let’s all come together and join an amazing and diverse group of artists to celebrate Black Boys, a new play unleashing the possibilities of queer Blackness. Hosted by Saga Collectif (Virgilia Griffith, Stephen Jackman-Torkoff, Tawiah M’Carthy, Thomas Olajide, and Jonathan Seinen), this night of performances, art and music, plus excerpts from Black Boys, will unite ourcommunity in celebration of our spiritual pride.
Tickets $20 / Available at buddiesinbadtimes.com
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SUNDAY JUNE 19 TIFF BELL LIGHTBOX 350 KING STREET WEST 1PM
Bring the whole family for this compilation of animated and live-action short films that celebrates difference and how we can find belonging by embracing our unique selves. Â This program is recommended for ages 7 and up. For tickets and the complete film lineup, visit tiff.net/pride.
Photo credit: Susan Hoffmann
Presented by TIFF in partnership with Pride Toronto
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TUESDAY JUNE 21 THE 519 519 CHURCH STREET 7PM
The important contributions of women organizing at the crossroads of identity and experience are often invisible. This panel will honour that work, celebrate the victories and highlight the need to nurture and sustain social justice organizing. Moderated by Debbie Douglas, social action and justice activist and Executive Director of the Ontario Council of Agencies Serving Immigrants, this panel features Akio Maroon, Board Chair at Maggie’s–Toronto Sex Workers’ Action Project; Rachel Lauren Clark, blogger and human rights activist; Notisha Massaquoi, global women’s health care advocate and Executive Director of Women’s Health in Women’s Hands Community Health Centre; Jill Andrew, founder and producer of Curvy Catwalk, Canada’s first and only annual plus size fashion fundraiser; and Becky McFarlane, The 519’s Senior Director, Programs and Community Services.
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In partnership with
Photo by Jean-Denis Lacroix. Provided by the Canadian Lesbian and Gay Archives
35 Years of Women’s Activism at the Intersections
WEDNESDAY JUNE 22 CONCERT STAGE, HARBOURFRONT CENTRE BEHIND 235 QUEENS QUAY WEST 9PM
You can, in fact, sit with us. Pride Toronto, Harbourfront Centre and TIFF proudly present a free outdoor screening of Mean Girls, kicking off a new season of Free Flicks. See La Lohan in her career defining tour de force performance, as we so desperately want to remember her. (Those freckles!) Unleash your inner Regina, Gretchen or Karen and bring your fellow Plastics for a très cute movie date under the stars on the pier. Please note: Dress code in effect! On Wednesdays, we wear pink (and you should too).
In partnership with
Join TIFF for an online movie party on a revolutionary interactive platform, featuring some special guests! Connect via video and text with stars and fellow fans, from wherever you are. Visit synaptop.com/tiff/pride2016
The screening will be live-commentated by Mean Girls' star and gay icon, Daniel Franzese (HBO's Looking)
THURSDAY JUNE 23 BOULEVARD TENT, HARBOURFRONT CENTRE 235 QUEENS QUAY WEST 7PM
Harbourfront Centre's summer-long Dancing on the Pier series begins with a sultry, same-sex and entirely hands-on instructional event in celebration of Pride. Queer-friendly Flamenco pros will be on hand to coax and coach you through every sexy step. This is a rare opportunity to master some scorching moves and the Spanish art of seduction. Bring your regular dance partner or find a new one on the pier! A warm, welcoming environment and live bands will make for easy interactions and keep you engaged and inspired, whether you’re a complete beginner or an experienced dancer. Admission is free. See harbourfrontcentre.com for details.
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THURSDAY JUNE 23 THE HEARN GENERATING STATION 440 UNWIN AVENUE 8PM
As the New York Times noted, not even Madonna has attempted anything so ambitious. Rufus Wainwright is giving Toronto audiences a chance to see his epic recreation of the legendary Judy Garland’s 1961 concert at Carnegie Hall that was dubbed “the greatest night in show business." Wainwright’s showmanship, energy and style has been displayed in the same venues Garland performed this show 55 years ago – in New York, London, Paris and L.A. Now, 10 years later, Luminato Festival brings Rufus Does Judy to the Hearn Generating Station, giving Toronto audiences a chance to see the iconic production like never before. Wainwright, an icon himself, carries on Garland's legacy with special guest stars.
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Tickets From $39 (+HST) Available at Luminatofestival.com Second performance: Friday, June 24.
AFTERPARTY In collaboration with Pride Toronto, the June 23 performance will be followed by a post-show party (tickets $60 +HST), sure to blow the lid off the Hearn. Available at Luminatofestival.com
FRIDAY JUNE 24 ROYAL ONTARIO MUSEUM 100 QUEEN’S PARK 7PM – 11PM
What do you get when you combine the magical power of a rainbow with a 100,000 square foot crystal? You get Colour ROM Proud, a massive one-night-only 4-hour queer party. During this Friday Night Live takeover, Pride Toronto presents music, dance, food and performances as you wander around the museum and get an exclusive preview of the CHIHULY glass exhibition, featuring ground-breaking explorations in colour, light and form by artist David Chihuly. Toronto DJs Craig Dominic, Cozmic Cat, John Caffery, Kris Steeves and Scooter McCreight will spin some tunes. Live performances by Forte – Toronto Gay Men’s Chorus, Christian Jeffires and Backburner, ILL NANA/Diverse City Dance Company and NYC’s Tony Banks, go-go boys and drag stars will entertain amongst the dinosaurs. See you in the crystal!
Tickets Adults: $15 Students: $13 ROM members: $5 Available in advance at ROM.on.ca/FNL or at the door. Partygoers must be 19+
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SATURDAY JUNE 25 STARTING AT NORMAN JEWISON PARK 9PM
Nuit Rose, Toronto’s annual queer art and performance festival, returns for its third year, and, for 2016, the Light Parade also joins the Pride Month celebrations. The Light Parade is an open, community event that begins at sunset. Wear or carry a light-emitting object and come walk with us! Beginning at Norman Jewison Park, east of Yonge Street, the parade will proceed through the parkettes and then onto Church Street. Free lantern-making workshops will be offered before the Light Parade, designed and led by Red Pepper Spectacle Arts, producers of the annual Kensington Market Winter Solstice Celebration. Nuit Rose showcases provocative, cutting edge work by diverse artists, offering unique, transformational encounters with art across the city on one unforgettable night. This year’s theme, Night Shift, will be featured at indoor and outdoor venues in two neighbourhoods: Church/Wellesley Village and West Queen West. Look for installations at The 519, the Canadian Lesbian and Gay Archives, Artscape Youngplace, and the Gladstone Hotel, among others. Set the night ablaze at Nuit Rose and the Light Parade. Come and share the light. For more information, visit nuitrose.ca
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SUNDAY JUNE 26 RYERSON THEATRE 43 GERRARD STREET EAST 7PM
Pride Toronto’s innovative Queer Icon series returns, offering An Evening With George Takei. From his early years in internment camps, to his famed tenure on the Starship Enterprise and his current post at the summit of online superstardom, Mr. Takei’s ability to reflect on his own life experiences, coupled with his unique brand of intellectual levity, makes him one of the world’s most engaging speakers. Armed with an inimitable wit and critical insights on just about everything, Mr. Takei gets right to the point on topics that truly matter: social justice and equal rights, the beauty and challenges of diverse ethnocultural landscapes, what pop culture says about us, and the age of social media. Join us at the Ryerson Theatre for the lecture of a lifetime, with a Q&A session to follow. Boldly go!
Tickets The first 500 tickets are available for FREE! Maximum 2 tickets per person. Tickets: Starting at $25 VIP Meet and Greet Tickets: $120 Available at PrideToronto.com/George
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SUNDAY JUNE 26 RIPLEY’S AQUARIUM OF CANADA 299 BREMNER BOULEVARD 8PM – 12AM
Dive into all the colours of the rainbow and unleash your fishiness with Australian DJ superstar Kitty Glitter. Your ofishal deep-sea adventure awaits at Ripley’s Aquarium, with an evening of music, drinks and roaming entertainment that will get your gills flapping. Anyfin is possible when Kitty Glitter spins the beats across the Great Rainbow Reef while local mermaids Sapphire Titha Reign and Judy Virago fiercely float among 16,000 unique aquatic animals. This 19+ event is the perfect way to cool off during Pride Month.
Tickets Early Bird Tickets (until May 31): $40 + HST Regular tickets (beginning June 1): $50 + HST Don't be koi. Buy your tickets online at ripleysaquariumofcanada.com
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KITTY GLITTER
TUESDAY JUNE 28 BARBARA HALL PARK 519 CHURCH STREET 9PM
AIDS CANDLELIGHT VIGIL
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Photos: Richard Rhyme
Whether you use your light to honour the millions of lives that have been impacted by HIV/AIDS or celebrate one remarkable person whose story inspires you, we gather in solidarity at Barbara Hall Park to remember the fighters, the advocates, the supporters, the caregivers, the researchers, the ones who have passed away and those who live on in grief’s wake. Our individual experiences with HIV/AIDS are vastly different, but together, we share a story that shapes our community. Take a solemn moment during your Pride festivities to hold the torch high and remember. The theme this year is Taking Care of Each Other, in recognition of all who have supported and helped each other along over the years.
WEDNESDAY JUNE 29 THE 519 519 CHURCH STREET 7PM
This panel features seven powerful queer voices discussing the systemic and daily oppression faced by Black queer and trans communities and highlighting the ways that anti-blackness is present in LGBTQ spaces. This panel will be moderated by Beth Jordan, a senior-level administrator, educator and social services consultant, and features Angela Robertson, co-editor of Scratching the Surface: Canadian Anti-Racist Feminist Thought; Dr. Rinaldo Walcott, an academic and writer of Black diaspora cultural studies with an emphasis on queer sexualities, masculinity and cultural politics; Kim Katrin Milan, an award winning, internationally acclaimed artist, educator and writer; Rodney Diverlus, writer and co-founder of Black Lives Matter – Toronto Coalition; Syrus Marcus Ware, an artist, activist and scholar whose work focuses on activism in Canada; and Pride Toronto 2016 Youth Ambassador Jordyn Samuels, founder of Journeys In Equity, raising awareness of equity, anti-oppression and LGBTQ issues.
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In partnership with
WEDNESDAY JUNE 29 CABANA POOL BAR 11 POLSON STREET 6PM-11PM
You know that impossibly perfect summertime moment? Poolside, drink in hand, sun melting into the horizon like a Creamsicle dream, and smooth, sensual rhythms giving you all the feels. You catch your warmly lit reflection in your best friend's sunglasses and things are looking good.... Make that moment last an entire evening and get your Pride started right at our Cabana Pool Party.
On deck to get you in the mood, Madrid hottie Anthony May will make his Canadian debut, alongside local siren Ticky Ty. The slickest outdoor venue this side of South Beach has a postcard view of the city skyline and waterfront and a cast of outrageous friends and beautiful strangers. This party, hosted by none other than high fashion queen Naomi Smalls of RuPaul’s Drag Race season eight, is the official kickoff to your sexiest summer yet.
Tickets Early Bird Tickets: $15 Available at PrideToronto.com/Cabana
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ANTHONY MAY NAOMI SMALLS
THURSDAY JUNE 30 BARBARA HALL PARK 519 CHURCH STREET 5PM-12AM
In partnership with
KIM CHI
There's something decidedly dreamy about dusk setting over the Green Space Festival's Starry Night social. This swirling, outdoor cocktail-schmooze kicks off the grand finale weekend of Pride Month and brings out the very best and brightest in our community. Opening this not-to-be-missed soiree will be multiple Juno awardwinner Kim Richardson, whose live band will set the evening’s tone with a jazzy, Bossa nova flair. Featuring breathtaking cabaret performances and top-notch talent, this year’s roster boasts RuPaul's Drag Race fave Kim Chi (Chicago), Adora (Miami), Rita Baga (Montreal) and Toronto’s own Tynomi Banks, Brooke Lynn Hytes, and prima-provocateuse Sofonda Cox. What's more, this stylish midsummer night's gayla is a giant group hug for The 519, with the bar proceeds going directly to support the community centre’s programs and services. All this ooh la la in the nexus of the Village is definitely where you want to be.
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KIM RICHARDSON & BAND
FRIDAY JULY 1 AT THE CORNER OF CHURCH AND HAYDEN STREETS RALLY 7PM / MARCH 8PM
Since its community-led beginnings in 2009, the Trans* March has become one of the largest, most exciting trans* events in the country. All trans* identified people, their friends and allies are welcome to rally, march and stand together in solidarity. Trans* women of colour and people with different abilities are encouraged to lead the March and set the pace for everyone else. Join us at the intersection of Church and Hayden Streets as we make our way along Bloor Street, south on Yonge and east on Carlton to Allan Gardens.
TRANS* PRIDE COMMUNITY FAIR Friday July 1, 3PM – 10PM Allan Gardens, Carlton and Sherbourne Streets
TRANS* SPACE 2016 Friday July 1, 7PM – 9PM Saturday July 2, 12PM – 10PM Sunday July 3, 12PM – 10PM Church Street at Isabella Street *Trans is an umbrella term that refers to all of the identities within the gender identity spectrum, which includes but is not limited to community members who identify as transgender, transsexual, transvestite, genderqueer, genderfluid, gender independent, non-binary, third gender, two-spirit and bi-gender.
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FRIDAY JULY 1 BUD LIGHT SOUTH STAGE 7PM – 2AM
Queers of all shapes, sizes and gender expressions, it’s time to bust down the binary and break outta the box. It’s about to get wild in here, with the infamous Judy Virago in an evening of boundary-pushing and gender-bending performances, including The House of Filth’s The Trash Cabaret, Andrew Awesome, The Countess, Hotnuts and extra special guest Christeene. Things are going to get live, loud and in your face with Toronto’s own Vag Halen tearing up the stage, followed by JD Samson of Le Tigre. You’ll be moving and sweating right ‘til the end of this all inclusive, no-questions-asked dance party.
VAG HALEN
JUDY VIRAGO
JD SAMSON
CHRISTEENE
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FRIDAY JULY 1 OLG CENTRAL STAGE 3PM – 2AM
This has been an incredible year for Canadian music, atop the pop charts and in the sweatiest of underground scenes. Made in Canada is a massive block party in the centre of The 6ix that will get that maple syrup dripping and those beavers bumping. Our headliners are the biggest, bashiest, queer hip hop/rnb/dancehall jam — Yes Yes Y’all. Moonshine, an electrifying afterhours party from Montreal, will join the action to light up the rainbow and get all the bodies moving. Diego Armand (Business Women’s Special), Frustra, Chiclet and Craig Dominic will be kicking it off and rocking the block. The party is hosted by Canadian darling Hamilton Elliott, the first trans contestant on The Amazing Race Canada. Soak up this all-Canadian lineup and feel the liberating energy pulsing through the speakers.
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HAMILTON ELLIOTT
FRIDAY JULY 1 TD VILLAGE STAGE 7PM - 11PM
DIGGING ROOTS
Follow the beat of the drum at the very heart of the festival: Pride Toronto is proud to feature our very first Two-Spirit Rainbow Pow Wow! For a night of Indigenous art, culture and music, join us in celebrating our Two-Spirit community members at the Village Stage for singing and dancing through nightfall. Here, some of Canada’s incredible Two-Spirit dancers will be showcased, alongside award winning DJ Shub (A Tribe Called Red) spinning First Nations’ inspired electro dance beats throughout the night. To top it off, special performances by Two-Spirit artist Shawnee and JUNO award-winning duo Digging Roots, are sure to make this night an extraordinary feat! Two-Spirit dates back to pre-colonization, where a person with a cross gender identity was believed to be gifted for carrying both masculine and feminine spirits. It’s time to remember our history and home on native land. Let’s put our family from Turtle Island in the forefront at this event programmed by and for the Two-Spirit community.
SHAWNEE
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FRIDAY JULY 1 WELLESLEY STAGE 7PM – 2AM
Mariposa offers an immersion into the beauty and colour of Latin culture and it’s hard to imagine a more dynamic and appropriate headliner than Mexican-American Lila Downs. The international superstar and three-time Grammy winner has earned global accolades for her inimitable blend of outré effervescence and inclusive warmth — think seismic party anthems alternating with silken ballads — fusing traditional Latin rhythms and indigenous influences with her own searing style. Along for the journey to sexy sounds are DJ Trambo and DJ Jimmy Suave, resident DJs of Lula Lounge, the city’s hotspot for jazz, Latin and world music. Travel and sway to the Colombian music of Los Hijos de Tuta, the much loved, infectious and upbeat parrandero band headed by talented multi-percussionist Wilson Acevedo. A spectrum of Latin artists, dancers and queens will complete this vibrantly multihued evening, including an all-star Midnight Salsa with Papiosco y Grupo Ritmicos Toronto — definitely not to be missed!
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LILA DOWNS
FRIDAY JULY 1 GOULD STREET AND VICTORIA STREET 7PM – 11PM
BQY (Black Queer Youth) represents Black, African/Caribbean and multiracial youth and has been operating and providing a safe space for Black Queer Youth since 2001. This is their fourth youth showcase for Pride Toronto and as always, they will demonstrate the talent, culture and art of being Black with high energy performances. Come and support our youth and celebrate the beauty that is Black culture! #BQYPAWWTY
SATURDAY JULY 2 FIDO QUAD RYERSON UNIVERSITY 1PM-4PM
This Pride, youth take over one of our biggest stages! Celebrate the 14th year of the Fruit Loopz Youth Stage—a festival of arts, words and ideas for queer and trans youth, by queer and trans youth. Presented by Support Our Youth (SOY) in partnership with Pride Toronto, Fruit Loopz has become home base for a vibrant community of young artists from across the gender spectrum. Everyone is welcome to this familyfriendly, drug and alcohol-free, youth-focused space!
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SATURDAY JULY 2 AT THE CORNER OF CHURCH AND BLOOR STREETS 2PM
This year marks the 20th anniversary of the Dyke March, a political demonstration of critical mass, welcoming all self-identified dykes to create political and visible space. This grassroots event is not a parade. The women and trans people of our community take over the streets of Toronto to celebrate our power, strength, diversity and passion of dyke experiences and identities. We will reflect on our history, celebrate our accomplishments, learn from our past, honour where we've come from and lift voices that have been silenced and forgotten. Join us for the post-march rally in Allan Gardens for performances, crafting and dyke-community building.
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SATURDAY JULY 2 BUD LIGHT SOUTH STAGE 2PM – 2AM
NOMI RUIZ
The official Dyke March postcelebration takes over Pride’s industrial stage, with the hilarious Deb “Dirk” Pearce hosting the hottest womenloving-women party and showcasing fierce women in music. Dance and cruise Cherry Bomb-style with DJs Denise Benson and Cozmic Cat spinning back-to-back and getting the afternoon started right. We’ll heat up the crowd with Nomi Ruiz (of Hercules and Love Affair fame), followed by Nino Brown (Yes Yes Ya’ll). And not to be missed offstage—a live graffiti show by Lauren Hortie and her crew.
VIKTORIA MODESTA
As the sun goes down, Toronto’s own Witch Prophet takes the stage with Above Top Secret for a live performance, spitting rhymes to rile you up and sweeten your soul. Fawn BC takes the decks to get the BPMs up for British, bionic multimedia artist, singer and DJ, Viktoria Modesta. This multidisciplinary diva explores modern identity through performance, fashion, avant-garde visuals, technology and science—all while spinning a bassthumping, dance set with a live vocal performance like no other. Lez do it!
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SATURDAY JULY 2 OLG CENTRAL STAGE 2PM – 2AM ANDY BUTLER
VJUAN ALLURE
GSP
Get your paws in the honey pot and surround yourself with beefy, brawny, beautiful babes. The bear subculture grew out of wanting to celebrate our bodies and resistance to impossible standards. Check out the diverse and still-expanding range of who’s who in the zoo. Headlining the party is Andy Butler, the driving force behind retrofuturist disco house kingpins Hercules & Love Affair and label boss at Mr. Intl records. Bear Garden features legendary Vjuan Allure, one of the ballroom scene's biggest talents and producer of the new RuPaul album Butch Queen. GSP is bringing the big sound all the way from London. Cherry picked local all-stars DJ Blackcat (Pitbull, House of Monroe), Nik Red (RedLight Special, AfroTransit), Kris Steeves (FIT), and Aeryn Pfaff (Sessions) will have you feeling wild and shaking all the meat on your bones. Soak up the sun and sow the seeds of love in the Bear Garden.
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SATURDAY JULY 2 TD VILLAGE STAGE 2PM - 11PM Breanna Sinclaire
Too Attached
Belle Jumelles Burlesque A Go-Go
Hosted by Ryan G. Hinds
BREANNA SINCLAIRE
A DREAM, A COAST
BURLESQUE A GO-GO
Angelic American opera singer
Beach-wave artist with 90s grunge influences
TOO ATTACHED
Queer bombshell burlesque performances curated by Belle Jumelles
T. THOMASON
2PM
4:15PM
Two coasts, two cultures – Grand Marshal Vivek Shraya and her brother perform R&B influenced jams.
5PM
5:40PM
Crafty singer-songwriter and East Coast Music Award nominee
THE MOHRS
7:30PM – 10PM
DR. DRAW & THE STRANGE PARADE 10PM
High intensity electric violinist with a full band and light show
6:20PM
Powerful and refined riff-based rock-pop
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SATURDAY JULY 2 MOLSON CANADIAN STAGE YONGE-DUNDAS SQUARE 2PM-11PM
Hosted by
Bianca Del Rio & Lady Bunny Special Guests
Derrick Barry, Chi Chi DeVayne, Ben DeLaCreme, Gia Gunn, Shangela, Alyssa Edwards & Darienne Lake DJ Set by
Pearl Performances by Igby Lizzard Allysin Chaynes Judy Virago Nancy Bocock Dottie Dangerfield Champagna Enemea Courtney Conquers Ja'mie Queen Barbie Jo Bontemps Jacqueline Hyde Bonbon Bontemps Devine Darlin' Dmanda Tension Helena Poison Beardra Baby Bel Bel Bunni Lapin Nikki Chin Vicki Lix Juice Boxx Scarlett Bobo Ivory Towers
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Eve Summers Miss Whimsy Thrift Ryan Boa Atmos Fierce Cira Flexion Naomi Leone Lillith Kane Fisher Price Karma Chameleon Violet Dreams Faye Tality Leelando Heroine Marks Jada Hudson The Yes Men Xtacy Love Sapphire Titha Reign Sofonda Cox Donnarama Cassandra Moore Ala Mode
Sashay on over to Yonge-Dundas Square as Pride Toronto serves up a ferocious sequel to last year's overwhelmingly successful DRAG ON! event. This unprecedented drag marathon is sure to defy and inspire even the wildest imaginations! This year, the stakes (and heels) are higher than ever. Be a part of drag history as DRAG ON! snatches the official Guinness Book of World Records title for Largest Drag Stage Performance. You don't want to miss this, Miss Thing!
Presented by
SATURDAY JULY 2 FIDO QUAD RYERSON UNIVERSITY 4PM – 2AM
Justify your love of music, sex and Madge as Pride Toronto and Hot Docs team up to present a very special screening of Madonna's landmark tour documentary, Truth or Dare, at the Fido Quad. 2016 marks the 25th anniversary of the most profitable and talked about documentary of its time. Beginning at 6PM, following the movie, let your body move to the music. Official Madonna remixer, DJ Paulo, will spin a killer, back-to-basics sermon, serving up some rare and unique vintage beats. Also preaching: The Cube Guys, two of the most prominent producers in Italy, and Nick Bertossi, Vancouver’s best import.
THE CUBE GUYS
MAYA SIMANTOV
Circuit queen, Stars69 recording artist and Offer Nissim’s muse, Maya Simantov, will also be on hand to belt her billboard hits including Everybody Needs a Man, First Time, Happy People and Be My Boyfriend. Let's be living for love! In partnership with
PAULO
SATURDAY JULY 2 WELLESLEY STAGE 5PM – 2AM
We’re honoured to present a landmark celebration of Middle Eastern culture, where traditional meets modern at Yalla Barra (Arabic for come out/get out.) Inspired by our Grand Marshal Salah Bachir, this showcase is headlined by one of the most compelling and provocative bands making music today. Hailing from Beirut, Mashrou' Leila is an outfit of impeccable artistry, earning international praise for their unparalleled sound, unflinching sociopolitical convictions, and searing live performances. Filling out the
bill is recent import DJ Louay, who arrived in Canada under the current refugee resettlement program, but only after making a name for himself with LGBT events in Syria and Lebanon. DJ Sylosurf, having mesmerized Pride crowds in years past with her beat-driven reworking of traditional sounds, is back at it again. Also gracing the stage is The Narcicyst (Narcy), a hip hop, Iraqi-Canadian emcee, journalist, educator and activist from Montreal. Arabesque Dance Company, Troupe Joy and the Earthshakers will present several dances in Egyptian, Lebanese, Moroccan, Iraqi and Whirling Dervish styles, directed by Yasmina Ramzy, along with performances by the Arabesque Drummers led by Suleiman Warwar. Pride welcomes all newly arrived queer refugees with a special VIP section to enjoy the showcase. Yalla!
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FRIDAY TO SUNDAY JULY 1-3 CHURCH STREET, WELLESLEY STREET AND ALEXANDRA STREET
Take a stroll through the Village and connect with some of the incredible organizations participating in this year’s community fair. Enjoy products from local artisans and a diverse selection of delicious food for your enjoyment at the marketplace. Look out for the health and wellness organizations throughout the Streetfair and learn about the exciting, engaging and lifesaving work they’re doing. Come out and interact with the community along Church, Wellesley, and Alexander Streets. You’ll be informed and entertained as you savour the array of options for the mind and body, available all weekend long.
SATURDAY & SUNDAY JULY 2-3 ALEXANDER PARKETTE 1PM – 5PM
Witness the expressive efforts of youth from a number of schools, artistic programs and groups, showcasing their work related to identities, legal rights, experiences of mental health and wellness, and other social justice initiatives.
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Friday July 1, 7PM – 2AM Saturday July 2, 12PM – 2AM Sunday July 3, 12PM – 11PM
SATURDAY & SUNDAY JULY 2-3 CHURCH STREET PUBLIC SCHOOL 83 ALEXANDER STREET 10AM – 5PM
We are family! Celebrating 16 years with Pride Toronto, Family Pride is a family-friendly Pride celebration on the grounds of an elementary school within the Village. With programming for families and children, from infants to age 12, Family Pride features sports, games, crafts, face painting, story telling and live performances. Family Pride honours families and children with vibrant, creative and engaging activities. Come and make merry as we revel in diversity and family fun. You can play with us at Family Pride!
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SUNDAY JULY 3 AT THE CORNER OF CHURCH AND BLOOR STREETS 2PM
Come one, come all and come as you are. This is it! The annual Pride procession, in all its glory. The colourful interpretations of Pride reach far and wide and there's room for everyone in this colossal and extremely friendly crowd. It used to be that only performers, activists and provocateurs made the charge but nowadays, everyone from your coworker, your neighbour, your local librarian, your Prime Minister and even your accountant takes part in this massive conga line to celebrate Toronto's love for all queer things. There are unforgettable performances, floats crammed with frenzying bodies of all varieties and hundreds of joyous, costumed platoons singing their unique messages of Pride! And it's true what they say about the world's grandest parade: you never know what famous smiles you’ll see marching down Yonge Street. The herd starts moving at 2PM and the only sure thing to expect is the unexpected.
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SUNDAY JULY 3 OLG CENTRAL STAGE 2PM – 11PM
JULIANA HUXTABLE
KIM ANH
New York party-legend Juliana Huxtable of Shock Value fame is bringing FIST to Pride Toronto, and she's taking names. With the finest selection of DJs armed with the sickest sounds and an open door policy that ensures every flavour is welcome, FIST is sure to be a Pride 2016 must-attend event. We’re going to put women and trans allies in total control for the biggest, baddest and most diverse crowd to come together and go off. Whether you're there to flaunt your feminism or to get your freak on, these DJs will give you something you can really work with. LA's underground darling Kim Anh is serving a bossy house/ disco soundtrack and local hero Bambii will be rolling through, along with Sun Sun and Sigourney Beaver. Mark your calendar—you don’t dare miss FIST.
In partnership with
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SUNDAY JULY 3 TD VILLAGE STAGE 3PM - 11PM
Rita Baga & Michel Dorion Accent on Montréal
Jordan Alexander
Hosted by Gary Levy
Caveboy
FRANCOQUEER’S FRENCH RENDEZ-VOUS 3PM – 5PM
Trésor Otshudi, Royal Tribal and Art of Echo, hosted by Rainbow and Nat King Pole
ACCENT ON MONTRÉAL 5PM – 6PM
Fierté Montréal presents Sin City’s best drag queens
JORDAN ALEXANDER 6:40PM
Sultry, poetic singersongwriter, poised to be the next big thing in pop
D!XON 7:20PM
High energy and boundary pushing dance pop artist
CAVEBOY 8:20PM
Dreamy, indie dream-pop band creates new worlds of sound
FOXTROTT 9:15PM
Dark and danceable, French Horn driven electropop
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SUNDAY JULY 3 BUD LIGHT SOUTH STAGE 2PM – 11PM TICKY TY
Our dirtiest rendezvous is back! This allday dance marathon pays homage to the warehouse raves of Toronto’s past and to the legacy of the legendary DJ and promoter, Don Burns. DJs JELO, Deko-ze, Robb G, Ticky Ty and Jerome Robins are ready to heat up the decks, turn up the volume and drop all the house you can handle. Hosted by Miss Raquel and the Juno Award winning emcee Flipside, this is your last chance to sweat before Pride becomes a vague, but oh so fabulous, memory. Get down and dirty with us!
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DEKO-ZE
SUNDAY JULY 3 WELLESLEY STAGE 12PM – 11PM
ALISON HINDS Black is Black, all power to the people! Pride Toronto’s longest running showcase returns for an activism-based, community-focused full day of dynamic programming. Presented by Blackness Yes!, Blockorama is a co-created, safe and affirming space for Black and African diaspora community members and their loved ones to celebrate their lives and loves together. Hosted by Toronto’s Dr. Omisoore Dryden and Ottawa’s Francis Loïc Kiromera, Blocko features the famed queer, gender non-conforming dance troupe and Pride’s International Honoured Guests, The Prancing Elites, from Mobile, Alabama. Celebrated African-Jamaican dubpoet D’bi Young & The 333 headlines the celebrations with the Queen of Soca, Alison Hinds. Local performers include DJs Bambii, Craig Dominic, Carma and Zehra, along Marsha Celina, Naomi Leone and Michelle Ross. And don’t miss the award-winning jojoflores’ DJ set to close out the night! For the full lineup, visit BlacknessYes.com
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SUNDAY JULY 3 FIDO QUAD RYERSON UNIVERSITY 1PM – 1AM
Let's face it. Pride just isn't Pride without TreeHouse Party. This signature event is the crown jewel jam of the long weekend, a truly epic outdoor dance-fantasy and the climax of your Pride party calendar. This year, Pride Toronto partners with the Green Space Festival to bring you an unforgettable lineup of the best international DJs, handpicked to get you off: real-life couple and sexy duo SexShooters (London), all-star producer Yinon Yahel (Israel), enfant terrible Alain Jackinsky (Montreal) and circuit king Isaac Escalante (Mexico but really, adorable Isaac is an honorary Torontonian now). This is the ohso-sweet cherry on top of your Sunday, heating up the Fido Quad at 1PM and going late.
In partnership with
TreeHouse Party also happens to be a kiki with a cause. Proceeds from the event go directly to support The 519 Community Centre and its many essential programs and services.
Tickets Early Bird Tickets: $20 Available at PrideToronto.com/TreeHouse More at the door
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SEXSHOOTERS
SUNDAY JULY 3 MOLSON CANADIAN STAGE YONGE-DUNDAS SQUARE 2PM-11PM
ALEX NEWELL
Hot on the heels of the grand Parade, the masses will descend upon Yonge-Dundas Square for an explosive denouement featuring an astonishing all-star lineup. Poster boy Joe Jonas and his perfect pop confection DNCE are on tap to serve some very delicious “Cake by the Ocean” and other delicacies. The Singing String Quartet Well-Strung is in from New York to serenade the congregation with an eclectic repertoire that ranges from Mozart to Miley. The Final Play stage also welcomes Glee alum and breakout star Alex Newell (aka Unique), who has earned the adoration of GLAAD (and the scorn of Bill O'Riley), belting out some of the most anthemic, divalicious vocal tracks you’ll ever hear. International Honoured Guests The Prancing Elites, the perfectly queer, gender non-conforming synchronized dance troupe hailing from the deep south and led by U.S. army vet Kentrell Collins, cap off their weekend duties with a very special performance. Expect cameos from the country's top leaders at The Final Play, as our allies in government join in on the revelry. This giant feel good fête will also feature your favourite honeyboo: New York-based living legend Miss Honey Dijon, who dishes up the sweetest dessert: her signature blend of booming deep house bangers. This is the moment that matters most: all kinds of YAAASSSSS! at the very the heart of our city.
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WELL-STRUNG
MISS HONEY DIJON
PRESENTED BY
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FRIDAY TO SUNDAY JULY 1-3 PAUL KANE PARKETTE WELLESLEY STREET, BETWEEN YONGE AND CHURCH
FRIDAY NIGHT SOBER CINEMA presents 28 Days, 9:20PM
is a dedicated drug-and-alcohol-free space to enjoy fantastic entertainment in a family-friendly environment. Festivities include live performances, discussions, daily programming and confidential 12-step recovery meetings. Friday July 1, 6PM – 12AM Saturday July 2, 10AM – 12AM Sunday July 3, 10AM – 9PM
SATURDAY NIGHT SOBER DISCO 9:10PM
CLOSED 12-STEP, ANONYMOUS RECOVERY MEETINGS Friday July 1 6PM, 8PM Saturday July 2 10AM, 11AM, 4PM, 6PM, 8PM Sunday July 3 10AM, 11AM, 4PM, 6PM, 8PM
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MAY 17 – SEPTEMBER 5
SATURDAY JUNE 18
Forever Plaid - The Musical Panasonic Theatre *
Back to the Roots (Queer as Folk is coming back to town) Holiday Inn Downtown Centre *
FRIDAY MAY 27 The Inspire Awards - Honouring LGBTQ Leaders University of Toronto Hart House *
THURSDAY JUNE 2
York Region Pride Parade / Pride In The Park Lorne Ave and Town Park, Richmond Hill *
LGBTQ Laughing Like Crazy Showcase Central YMCA *
Toronto PFLAG 8th Annual Pride Sunday Family Brunch Pogue Mahone Irish Pub @ 777 Bay *
JUNE 2 – 25
TUESDAY JUNE 21
SYNETHESIA - abstract paintings by artist Kirk Sutherland Urban Gallery
East Side Pride Albert Campbell Square *
FRIDAY JUNE 3
Pride Business Cocktail Reception An LGBT Networking Opportunity Berkeley Bike Shop
CANFAR presents #DressedUpDisco, a 70's theme party and fundraiser Loft 404 *
SATURDAY JUNE 4 Counterpoint Community Orchestra presents “A Prom for Pride: Somewhere Over the Rainbow” Saint Luke's United Church *
WEDNESDAY JUNE 8
THURSDAY JUNE 23
JUNE 23 – 26 “Taste of Toronto" Restaurant Festival Garrison Common at Fort York National Historic Site *
FRIDAY JUNE 24
Full Stack Toronto celebrates Pride highlighting Toronto's LGBT* Tech Community! EventMobi, 175 Bloor East *
The Imperial Court of Toronto presents Annual Chas Parkway Salute to Pride, a drag-show and fundraiser Erotico Lounge
SUNDAY JUNE 12
SATURDAY JUNE 25
East Side Pride Flag Raising Albert Campbell Square *
FORTE presents "Cinema Fortissimo" Trinity St. Paul's Centre *
MONDAY JUNE 16
Unleash The Pride: Pup Pride Parade + Meet Up 45 Ossington Avenue
Tape Condition: degraded Canadian Lesbian and Gay Archives exhibit opening 34 Isabella St.
FRIDAY JUNE 17 Pride Kabbalat Shabbat Service and Potluck Dinner Eastminster United Church U of T Pride Pub Hart House Quad *
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Kalik - Official Launch Party and Fundraiser Beit Zaitoun Dawn Patrol: GIRLS GIRLS GIRLS An all girl queer revue Buddies in Bad Times Theatre *
To find out more about these events and view the complete Affiliate Events calendar, please visit PrideToronto.com JUNE 25 – 26
JUNE 30 – JULY 24
T-DOT Pride NAGVA Volleyball Tournament Ryerson University Kerr Hall *
Worn With Pride: A Pride exhibit In partnership with the Canadian Lesbian and Gay Archives Montgomery's Inn
Circus So Gay, The Village Festival Church Street Village *
SUNDAY JUNE 26
FRIDAY JULY 1
Worship with Pride at St. Andrew's United! St. Andrew's United Church *
Mandy Goodhandy's Musical Comedy Cabaret Event Club 120
Chyuuch: The Family Gathering Harlem Underground *
Rangeela: 5 - a Queer Bollywood event Club 120
MONDAY JUNE 27
Proud Voices: Not Just A Pretty Face Gay Erotic Readings Glad Day Bookshop
Proud Voices: Poetrix Glad Day Bookshop
TUESDAY JUNE 28 Helix: Celebrating LGBTQ Indigenous and People of Colour Buddies in Bad Times Theatre * Proud Voices: Naked Boys Reading Glad Day Bookshop
WEDNESDAY JUNE 29 10 Minute Talks: A Very Short History of LGBT Issues in Toronto Mackenzie House Looking 4 Dick: a stand up comedy show Club 120 Proud Voices: Crooked Grin Glad Day Bookshop
THURSDAY JUNE 30 Movie in St. James Park St. James Park * Viva Cabaret - Tribute to the Greatest Divas! A one-man impersonation show The Rivoli *
JUNE 30 – JULY 3 Etobicoke Rotary Club presents "RIBFEST" Etobicoke Centennial Park
SATURDAY JULY 2 21st Annual Pride and Remembrance Run Church and Wellesley Cherry Bomb Pride: The Official Dyke Day Afterparty Mod Club Theatre Proud Voices: G.R.I.T.S. - Girls Raised In the South Glad Day Bookshop Proud Voices: Local Heroes & Indie Icons Glad Day Bookshop Proud Voices: Bricolage Glad Day Bookshop Proud Voices: Family Story Time Yorkville Public Library *
SUNDAY JULY 3 Church on Church Street South Stage * Christie Pits Film Festival - Celebrate Pride! Christie Pits Park Proud Voices: Poetic Justice Glad Day Bookshop Proud Voices: Syntaxx Glad Day Bookshop
* Accessible venue
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BOARD OF DIRECTORS
VOLUNTEER TEAM LEADS
Aaron GlynWilliams (Co-Chair), Alica Hall (Co-Chair), Rachel Lauren Clark (Secretary), Chris Tremeer (Treasurer), Biko Beauttah, Michelle Cherny, Carolynn Gludish, Evan Kirkman, Dana Suvagau, Phil Villeneuve, Tatum Wilson
Accessibility: Samanta Jaramillo, Sinthu Muruka, Marjorie Richards Affiliate Events: Matt Hyams, Marc Lalonde, Yani Macute Artist Relations: Roberto Carbonell Beverage Gardens: Dawn Allen, Kyle Bonnyman, Stuart Irving Blockorama: Craig Palmer, Nik Red, Syrus Ware Branding: Ben Langille Clean, Sober & Proud: Bruce Maloney, Michael W. Community Health: Sarah McDougall, Brandon Suk Donations: Gabriella Foganholi, Michael Sin Dyke March: Japneet Kaur, Julianne DeVincentis, Davina Hader Environmental Sustainability: Caitlin Oliver, Kayla Sasso Family Pride: Sallyanne Hadzalic, Kevin Stephney, Krysta Townsend International Grand Marshal: Jacqie Lucas, Vijay Ramkumar Media Production: Joey Fascio Media Relations: Andrea Delgado, Frances Sesay Outreach: Frank Folino Pride Parade: Ande Clumpus, Joanna Eaton, Justin Kusnir Pride Week Partners: Michael Cramp, Fady Zablouk Programming: Brian Dunn, Sherry Sylvain Public Safety: Martin Kuplens-Ewart, Hugh Switzer, Taylor Vanderwey Research: Eugenia Silina, Konstantin Tskhay Site: Dan Goncalves, Jean McLachlin, Jen Neilands, Jenny Pan Social Events: Umu Sowe Social Media: Jesse Hazen, Ferdinand Ngo, James Vong Streetfair: Amar Al-Sbayi, Amanda Gallant, Mike Krieger Trans Pride: Lauren Hetherington, Evana Ortigoza Volunteer Food & Beverage: Matt Ferris, Brian Wilson Weekend Volunteers: Sarah Bang, Amay Bhumak, Wendy Borrison Welcome Centres: Nathan Gibson, Julie Jean
STAFF Executive Director: Mathieu Chantelois Director of Development: Ben Freeman Director of Operations: Jaime Martino Volunteer Program Manager: Alanna O’Connor Communications Manager: Victoria Schwarzl Special Events and Production Manager: Sachil Patel Office Manager: Pam Paulsen Bookkeeper: Kinga Wnuk Development Coordinator: Greg Dixon Graphic Designer: Etienne Dicaire Site Logistics Assistant: Erin Edghill Trans Community Coordinator: Taylor K. Gesner (TK) Wellesley Stage Manager: Cecile Des Vignes Central Stage Curator: John Caffery Yonge-Dundas Stage Curator: Brodie Metcalfe South Stage Curator: Bobby Beckett Ryerson Quad Curator: Ian Abinakle Village Stage Curator: Elise Milani Yonge-Dundas Square Coordinator: Umu Sowe Technical Director: Heather Kilner Special Events Coordinator: Osmel Maynes Web Developer: Todd Feaver Pride Toronto Interns: Erin Edghill, Catherine McCabe, Marco Verplanke, Emily Wittet Pride Guide Writers: Anthony DeCarli, Maxime Bergeron, Chris Loudon, Sue Sullivan
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