Edmonton Pride Festival Guide, 2017 by PostVue Publishing

LETâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S SHOW OUR

PRIDE ED M ON TON! 1 ANDREW

KNACK

780.496.8122

andrew.knack@edmonton.ca

5 MICHAEL

OSHRY

780.496.8120

michael.oshry@edmonton.ca

9 BRYAN

ANDERSON

780.496.8130

bryan.anderson@edmonton.ca

2 BEV

ESSLINGER 780.496.8136

bev.esslinger@edmonton.ca

M DON

IVESON

780.496.8100

don.iveson@edmonton.ca

DAVE

780.496.8128

780.496.8138

LOKEN dave.loken@edmonton.ca

GIBBONS

ed.gibbons@edmonton.ca

SCOTT

TONY

BEN

780.496.8333

780.496.8146

MCKEEN

780.496.8140

scott.mckeen@edmonton.ca

10 MICHAEL

WALTERS

780.496.8132

michael.walters@edmonton.ca

CATERINA

tony.caterina@edmonton.ca

8 HENDERSON ben.henderson@edmonton.ca

MIKE

MOHINDER

780.496.8142

780.496.8148

NICKEL

mike.nickel@edmonton.ca

BANGA

mohinder.banga@edmonton.ca

Pucker up and KiSS who you want! Happy Pride Edmonton! Our team at KiSS 91.7 is proud to be your official media sponsor for a 10-day party celebrating who YOU are! This is a festival where everyone is welcome! We want you to become part of the KiSS Squadâ&#x20AC;Ś How? Treat people with RESPECT, build new RELATIONSHIPS and be RESPONSIBLE for including everyone and anyone for who they are. Join us Saturday, June 10th at the KiSS Stage for an amazing party celebrating YOU! Thank you so much for tuning in. We are committed to making you KiSS and Wiggle 24-hours a day! Check your judgement at the door - itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s time to celebrate who you are. See you on the dance floor!

Dinner Television is so thrilled to be part of this fabulous festival. Pride is embracing diversity and feeling empowered to celebrate it. We rejoice, not only knowing who we are, but for the ability to be honest and open with ourselves and others. It shows us how far we've come, but also reminds us that the journey is far from over. Pride 2017 is truly something to be celebrated by everyone.

- Mike & Helena #loveyourguts

Proud Partners of the Edmonton Pride Festival 2017 OFFICIAL PRIDE PROGRAM

board of directors & Staff 1.

1. Alyssa Demers, Co Chair; 2. Warren Becker, Co Chair; 3. Susan Oliver, Treasurer; 4. Nick Diaz, Secretary; 5. Amanda Barrett, Director at Large; 6. Stephanie Dickie, Communications Director; 7. Tim Ira, Director of Community Relations; 8. Angela Bennett, Festival Manager; 9. Neil Butt, Volunteer Coordinator A special thanks to Todd Herron and Patricia Willerton who stepped down from the Board in December to fill staff positions we appreciate their contributions and dedication to the 2017 Festival.

ONE PRIDE. MANY VOICES. 2017

The Board of Directors

Voice

Edmonton Pride Festival Society Board of Directors

Is Pride a Protest or is it a Party? Every year, Prides across Canada struggle with this single question and then they are challenged to find the magic balance between the two. The “party” lets us celebrate how far we have come and the “protest” reminds us of how far we still have to go.

One Pride. Many Voices. It’s hard to say whether it was keen insight or just plain dumb luck that we landed on this year’s theme of One Pride, Many Voices.

Either way, it turned out to be both timely and fortuitous. Several events converged that put a particularly bright light on the Protest vs. Party? question this year. The tumultuous 2016 Election legitimized a hateful public discourse within the USA and, unfortunately, beyond its borders into Canada and around the world. There have been many hard won battles for civil rights for women, people of colour, indigenous people, religious people, disabled people, and queer people, which are now under threat. This year we at Edmonton Pride have specifically sought to reexamine the Pride Festival’s relationship with our QTIPOC community members and to consider whether Edmonton Pride is doing enough to give marginalized members of our queer community enough opportunities to express themselves to move their interests forward. It forced us to engage in a more deliberate dialogue within our own diverse queer community. It forced us to look at the Edmonton’s queer community’s relationship with the police and the military. It forced us to consider the role of the police and the military in our Parade. We heard many, many voices. We heard many, many perspectives. We learned a lot! We learned that queer people of colour in Edmonton generally view their relationship with local police and military here positively and affirm that much progress has been made. This is due in large part to proactive work both by leaders in our own queer community and by the

Edmonton Police Service in fostering open and deliberate channels of communication. (See Superintendent Brad Doucette’s editorial later in the Pride Guide.) As such, uniformed presence of the local police and military in the Edmonton Pride Parade is felt by our community to be, on balance, much more of a statement of progress than it is a statement of oppression and therefore should not to be restricted. Pride should not – and cannot – be a singular collective voice of the queer community. While we have one pride, we have many, many diverse voices. Samples of these many voices are contained in the editorials in this Pride Guide. We continue to learn from these voices. Like any family, we sometimes disagree amongst ourselves. We on the Board of Directors feel that the most important role of Pride is ensuring that we enable all voices to be heard, that dialog be encouraged, and that we continue to learn from each others’ perspectives. This is an ongoing conversation that creates a stronger appreciation of our wonderful diversity and builds a stronger community for all Edmontonians to live in. So, is Pride a Protest or a Party? The many voices in our community tell us the answer is YES!

We wish you a very happy 2017 Pride! - Edmonton Pride Festival Board of Directors

Save the Date

Pride 2018 June 8-17, 2018

Photo by Shandro Photo

2017 OFFICIAL PRIDE PROGRAM

hop difer s u o y n e ent h W , d d i f n e f r u ent. yo

Find your one-of-a-kind. We have Pride in our community! Old Strathcona was named Edmonton’s best neighbourhood by Avenue Magazine (2012–2016).The historical community is home to over 600 businesses, including more than 100 restaurants and bars offering world-class dining and outdoor patios. It’s the number-one shopping district in the city with fashions and gifts for every style. Old Strathcona also offers year-round entertainment with music, art, theatre, festivals, and more. Whether you’re there to stay or just for the day, you’ll find an experience for all five senses.

OldStrathcona.ca OldStrathcona

ONE PRIDE. MANY VOICES. 2017

Contents

Alley Kat Brewing Company proudly presents...

Features 8 9 11

The Alberta-wide Voice

12 13 23 24 27 28

The Father of a Gay Son Voice

3 7 38 41

The Edmonton Public Schools Voice

The Dean of Education Voice

The Growing Up Millenial Voice / The Minister of Education Voice

2 4 43 44 45 48

The Parent Activist Voice The Queer Senior Voice The Parent of a Trans Child’s Voice The Privileged Ally of Marginalized Queer People Voice / The Sex Positive Voice The Bathroom Voice The Naked Voice / The Non-Binary Bitch Voice The Long-Time Educator Voice The Honest Voice The Overlooked Bisexual Voice The Outsider’s Voice The Here’s How You Can Support Us Voice

9 The Reject 4 Homonationalis Voice

51 52 53

...a juicy marriage of west coast hops and ruby red grapefruit.

The Christian Mom of an LGBTQ Kid Voice

The Gay Ismaili Voice The Team Edmonton Voice The Chief’s Advisory Council — Sexual & Gender Minority Liaison Committee Voice

The Edmonton Pride Festival makes every effort to ensure the accuracy of the information it publishes, but cannot be held responsible for any consequences arising from errors and omissions. Articles published reflect the views and opinions of the authors and are not necessarily the views held by the volunteers, contractors, coordinators, the Edmonton Pride Festival Society or our advertisers. We accept no liability for our advertisers’ claims.

4 Board of Directors 5 Message from

the Board

10 14-21 26 27 30-34 47

Merchandise

Festival Partners

Events Parade Map/Info Parade Marshall Entertainers Thank You for Your Support

Edmonton Pride Festival Society 10820 - 119 Street Edmonton, AB T5H 3P2 www.edmontonpride.ca hello@edmontonpride.ca Phone: 780-267-7433

Brewed in support of Edmonton Pride Festival Society

Design of this publication is by Ostello Creative and printed by Priority Printing Inc. Content & Design Copyright ©2017 Edmonton Pride Festival Society. All rights reserved. Reproduction, in whole or in part, without written permission. 2017 OFFICIAL PRIDE PROGRAM

The Alberta-wide

Voice Jamie Bay, ATB Financial

At ATB Financial, our mission is to create happiness. We do it by listening—to every customer, every Albertan, every time. Listening enables us to make banking work for people, support our neighbours and give back to our communities through important initiatives like Pride. We believe Pride is about love, faith and self-worth. It’s about acceptance. Pride is what we stand for in our workplace and in the communities we serve. That’s why ATB is a fierce partner of Edmonton and Calgary Pride, as well as Camp fYrefly and fYrefly in Schools, programs that support sexual and gender minority youth. “By supporting Camp fYrefly and fYrefly in Schools, ATB has not only helped to support many LGBTQ and allied youth develop leadership skills, they have also helped to lead much-need social change in Alberta,” says Dr. Kristopher Wells, Faculty Director of the University of Alberta’s Institute for Sexual Minority Studies and Services. “Programs like these are helping our youth develop resiliency and overcome prejudice. Thanks to partners like ATB, we are building a more diverse, open and inclusive society—and a province we can all be proud to call home!” In 2017, ATB will be once again sponsoring Camp fYrefly and fYrefly in Schools, as well as celebrating Pride in branches across Alberta, lighting up ATB Place in Pride colours, and recreating the “rainbow brick road” on the Pridewalk in downtown Calgary. For our own team members, ATB also offers many LGBTQ+ resources, including an LGBTQ Network that makes sure everyone can be themselves in an inclusive work environment. You can learn more about our support for the LGBTQ+ community at atb.com/pride

Celebrate your true colours Pick up a free Pride ﬂag*

Available at

WINNERS Edmonton City Centre 10200 102 Avenue NW WINNERS Edmonton Brewery 12060 104 Avenue

*While quantities last

The Dean of Education

Voice

Fern Snart, Former Dean of Education, University of Alberta

The risk in identifying myself in a headline such as this is any assumption that I represent the voices of others who hold the position of dean at a post-secondary institution. I am speaking only for myself, though in doing so I hope others will agree.

Looking beyond the uphill climb described above, successful achievement of a goal becomes even more uplifting and affirming! I hope a closing story can deliver the hopeful and overwhelmingly happy ending in this area for at least one dean.

I was very proud to be the dean of education at the University of Alberta from 2004 through 2015, and one of the most compelling, deeply emotional, and inspiring threads within that complex portfolio was becoming an advocate and ally regarding LGBTQ issues and initiatives. I believe this is an opportunity that should be sought out and taken up by any leader of a Canadian organization. As dean I personally had the opportunity to witness, and at times experience, the challenges and pain of LGBTQ friends, colleagues, and youth. I also experienced the exhilaration and relief of achievements as we realized small but significant steps forward. What a privilege in both cases.

It was a dark, quiet and snowy evening in February on the campus of the University of Alberta a few years ago. After the emotional commitment and incredible work ethic of many, it was the week of the U of A’s first ever Pride Week.

I’m not sure one can understand the implications of policy and practice decisions fully or meaningfully without being immersed, and at the receiving end of the challenges. At committee meetings attempting to lead changes to institutional policies or launch a transformational Institute, or within public meetings and media contexts, one experiences astonishing questions, at times explicit pushback, and on occasions hateful input and threats. How impacting - and how clear it becomes that the actions being pursued are desperately needed.

Dr. Kris Wells and I were walking across campus to a meeting. I looked around in the relative quiet, and noted the Pride banners on lightposts (another story with many sidebars I could share, but clearly a first on our campus - and one to which every dean had committed Faculty resources!) There were rainbow lights glowing from HUB, and there was a Pride Parade planned the next day. As we walked silently I was overcome with emotion - and at that moment I just wanted to reach over and hold the hand of my incredible colleague as we walked in this new moment in U of A’s history. I didn’t, and I never did share this story - but to Kris and so many others, perhaps especially our courageous students and employees of iSMSS (Institute for Sexual Minorities Studies and Services, www.ismss.ualberta. ca), thank you deeply for helping me to become a better leader, and I believe a better person. 2017 OFFICIAL PRIDE PROGRAM

every colour of the rainbow. every lavour of love.

fresh from the farm to your family

ONE PRIDE. MANY VOICES. 2017

every saturday 8am - 3pm osfm.ca

The Growing Up Millenial

The Minister of Education

Voice

Dartanion Johnson

When I was 5 years old, a girl classmate said to me, “Have sex with me!” I ran and told our teacher. When I was 7, I was engaged, by schoolyard standards, to a girl. We spent every recess holding hands and imitating Tuxedo Mask and Sailor Moon. Our young love ended after my family moved to a small town. When I was 9, a boy classmate said to me, “I love you!” Scared and confused, I made a poor judgment and told everyone in class. He became bullied and then switched schools. I was confused because up to this point I did not really understand “gay”. When I was 10, the show Queer As Folk aired and I was curious to what it was. I couldn’t believe what I was seeing but I was excited. I quickly felt depressed because most characters were twinks on drugs and often made fun of others for being fat, which I was. When I was 12, I ended up in adult chat rooms. Hundreds of guys started talking to me and I felt important. I wanted to entertain their offers of taking me to live with them, but I was too scared of being murdered. When I was 15, a girl wanted to have sex with me but I said, “No.” She then lied and told everyone we had sex.

and plans for a boycott. Posts from adults stating, “A gay lifestyle should not be shown to children and I don’t want my children to know about gays.” I wish as a child I saw a healthy representation of sexuality. Maybe, if I had known more I could have talked to the boy that said he loved me, instead of gossiping. Maybe, if I had healthy gay characters to look at I wouldn’t have tore myself up for being chubby. Maybe, if there were more openness to talking about being gay I wouldn’t have spent my youth talking to men who wanted to abduct a child. It wasn’t Queer as Folk or girl rejections that made me gay, in the same way that girls coming on to me didn’t make me straight; it was a lack of exposure to gay role models, healthy gay characters, and varying lifestyles that lead to many unfortunate circumstances. Sexuality is everywhere and kids have more to worry about than a gay character. Tolerance, respect and love need to be represented in today’s media and if it takes one Disney movie to finally open that conversation between families then I have hope for the next generation.

David Eggen

As the Minister of Education, it is my job to ensure that every student in Alberta feels safe and welcome at school. Our government is committed to caring, respectful and safe schools for all students. We will never waver on that. I want all students in Alberta to know that you have the right to create a Gay-Straight Alliance or a Queer-Straight Alliance, and you have the right to name your clubs this way. This is the law. The law also states that any school with a GSA or a QSA must have a staff member to act as a facilitator for their meetings and activities. When we meet with young people – lesbian, gay, and transgender students – and their parents, they tell me how much it means to them to know that our government has their back. I want them to know that this will never change. I will always have your back. I also want to make it clear that if any student or staff member in one of our schools is experiencing an issue related to human rights, please contact my office by phone or by emailing me directly at studentsupport@gov.ab.ca

When I was 16, I had a crush on a girl. I asked her out and she said, “No!” When I was 17, I moved to Edmonton and my first sexual encounter was with a much older man and to a degree he took advantage of me. Now I’m 28 and Disney’s live action movie Beauty and the Beast has a gay character. Some theatres, cities, and countries have stated their hate

Photo by Shandro Photo

2017 OFFICIAL PRIDE PROGRAM

The Father of a Gay Son

Voice

Mike Chalut Sr. (Dad of Mike Chalut Jr of KiSS 91.7 radio)

You “R “ Somebody! ™

NON CARBONATED GREAT REFRESHING TASTE

Let me explain. My son Mike and I did seminars together since he was Years ago the greatest boxer of all time, 16 yrs old. Here is a short perspecMuhammad Ali, would scream out in tive of what we would say: Respect the ring and during his interviews “I yourself. How? Love yourself, be am Greatest!” He, in fact, became the greatest because he did what it took to proud of yourself, and speak well of yourself. Honour yourself. Do not be the greatest of all time – he ‘beharm yourself. By doing that, it then lieved’ he WAS the greatest. is easy to respect others in the same So what about you? As years went by way. A fundamental principle of life. I learned to turn his words into “I am Oh, what a wonderful Somebody!” I would world it would be. How do you win speak to students and businessmen/women the battle against Think about it. to motivate them in Responsibility. The people who put to understanding that action part of you down? You they were ‘somebody’ stand tall and say being somebody is just because they were taking on the born; that’s it, period. with the conviction responsibility to take what Muhammad action as a More importantly, I drilled this message person and a member Ali had and say in to my son, Mike of a community. “I AM Chalut Jr. I would say Actions always speak SOMEBODY!!!!” to him, “Son, You are louder than words Somebody!” Because and that is why you let your voice be he believed in these words, it was heard. It is your responsibility. difficult, I am sure, to say “Dad, I am gay” while feeling he was a nobody. Relationships. Once you know who Yet it was easier, on the other hand, you are and what you need to do, you for him because he knew that I felt will build lasting and loving relationhe was a somebody despite of what ships because you live a life of truth others would say. and genuineness that separates the fake from what is real. Be somebody. Our world unfortunately spends a Believe you R somebody and spread lot of time trying to convince people they are nobody unless they buy this the word from the top of your lungs. item, live this particular lifestyle, or Oh what a feeling and oh what a believe as they should believe, etc. better world we will live in !! How do you win the battle against people who put you down? You stand tall and say with the conviction what Muhammad Ali had and say “I AM SOMEBODY!!!!” That may sound easy – and it can be – if you back those words with the three Rs of life: Respect; Responsibility; and, Relationships.

ONE PRIDE. MANY VOICES. 2017

Simple but true. Be Proud of who you are!!!!! YOU “R” SOMEBODY. Believe it and you can move on. Happy Pride Edmonton!

The Christian Mom of an LGBTQ Kid Voice Joanne McElroy

You broke the mould, kid. When you were born, you stole your way into the world way too soon, WAY before we were ready, and then kept on overwhelming us with your unique style year by year. You taught us that everything we knew about parenting was outdated, unproven or just plain stupid. So we let you lead.

cherish the differences in humanity and, most of all, to love like there is nothing better to do – just like Jesus did. You are grace personified in a world filled with hate and judgement. You are exactly what a hurting world needs to experience.

And I’m so proud to call you my kid.

And you’ve done an amazing job of making us look like great parents! You taught us to question everything we believe, to love beyond our capability, to think deeply, to Photo by Shandro Photo

2017 OFFICIAL PRIDE PROGRAM

Event Listings THURSDAY, JUNE 8 Rainbow Flag Raising

Art Jam FREE

For More Information: www.edmontonpride.ca

Pride Awards Presented by ATB

Big’ Uns - Dayna Danger Exhibition

The Rainbow Flag will be raised at City Hall to officially launch the 2017 Edmonton Pride Festival.

Community Partner: HIV Edmonton 7:00 – 10:00 pm Ceremony at 8 pm $20 in advance or with Pride Pass $25 at the door Radisson Hotel South 4440 Gateway Blvd Join us in style at the first event of the Edmonton Pride Festival. Grab a glass of wine before you stroll around the room taking in some of the exceptional local art work that will be on display around the room. At 8:00 pm, the Pride Awards will be presented to showcase the tremendous work that individuals and organizations have contributed to the LGBTQ+ community. Tickets link: yeglive.ca/events/pridefestival/jun-8-2017/radisson-hoteledmonton-south

FRIDAY, JUNE 9 Movie in the Park Presented by Telus Community Partner: Rainbow Visions Film Festival 6:00 – 10:00 pm Movie at 9:00 pm $5 at the gate Free with Pride Pass End of Steel Park 86 Ave & Gateway Blvd For More Information: www.edmontonpride.ca

Family Friendly

Strathcona Park The Paint Spot is pleased to support Edmonton’s youth with a Friday night Art Jam. This jam will involve creating t-shirts posters and any other items you would like to use in the parade on Saturday. If you enjoy crafts or just like trying something new come on out and meet some new people and get crafting.

City Hall

Legend

6:00 – 9:00 pm

FREE Latitude 53 10242 - 106 Street In the current cultural climate women identified, trans, and non-binary individuals lack power over their sexuality and bodies due to misrepresentation in media. Big’ Uns explores a reclamation of bodies and sexuality.

Under 17 Adult ONLY Time of Event Cost of Event Location of Event

Pride in the Park Festival 11:00 am – 6:00 pm FREE Donations Appreciated Strathcona Park, End of Steel Park Immediately following the parade be sure to come visit the Pride in the Park Festival. We have live entertainment, exhibitors, vendors, food trucks, child and youth activities, as well as tremendous

For More Information: www.latitude53.org

resources for the LGBTQ+ community.

SATURDAY, JUNE 10

new friends and celebrate diversity.

Pride Parade

parking well in advance. There 20 parking

11:00 am FREE* Whyte Avenue Refer to Parade Route - Page 20 *We will be accepting donations along the parade route! Your donations are greatly appreciated!

Pride In The Park is a great place to meet If you come by car, please plan your lots in the area and they fill up fast. We recognize the importance of keeping this event accessible to all who attend. While there is no fee to come to our event we greatly appreciate any and all donations!

The Pride Parade is an annual event that is not to be missed! Pull out your most colourful attire from you closet and show you pride! This event is for all ages. Be sure to arrive early to get a great spot. Once again, we encourage guests to take transit where possible. The highlevel street car will also be operating and there are plenty of places to park your bicycle. For More Information: www.edmontonpride.ca

ONE PRIDE. MANY VOICES. 2017

GET IT WHILE IT’S HOT!

Queer History Project Exhibit noon – 5:00 pm FREE Strathcona Park Edmonton has a rich but hidden LGBTQ+ history. Many landmark advances in LGBTQ+ rights started right here in Edmonton. Come and see Edmonton’s Queer History Project, originally displayed at the Alberta Art Gallery in June 2015 in celebration of the 35th Anniversary of the Edmonton Pride Festival. The

one on one. Human Libraries provide a platform for people of different genders, sexualities, ages, ethnicities, races and

Colour Me Pride, Not Prejudice 8:00 pm – Late

religions to come face to face and learn

FREE

about each other in a casual atmosphere.

Chic-Hog-O’s 10111 117 Street

Individuals who are willing to speak about their own experiences open the door to let others ask questions about their experiences, struggles and successes in life. For More Information: www.edmontonpride.ca

Come celebrate our Pride Kick off party, Colour Me Pride, Not Prejudice drag shows all evening. Custom cocktails and delicious slow roasted specialities made special for this evening.

SUNDAY, JUNE 11

Chill zone

Edmonton Pride Run & Walk

Noon – 5:00 pm

10:00 am

FREE

$10

Strathcona Park North

Argyll Park 6750 88 Street

Festivals can get overwhelming and sometimes you just need a place to escape the crowd to collect yourself. This year the Pride Festival is happy to add a Chill Zone to our programming. This space will provide a quiet place for people

Join us for a 3 km walk or a 5 km or 10 km run through Mill Creek Ravine to celebrate our diverse community and raise funds to support educational opportunities for LGBTQ individuals.

to escape the crowds,

For More Information: www.Pride.run

Youth Zone

Grab a drink of water and relax for a bit.

Pride Church Service

Sponsored by BioWare

Edmonton Pride Beverage Garden

11:00 am – 6:00 pm FREE Strathcona Park This years Youth Zone will feature an array of activities to engage and empower local youth. A “Shared Consciousness” Art wall will be erected where everyone can share their artistic pride on one canvas as well as games and activities facilitated by some of Pride’s greatest volunteers! We will also feature local organizations who support local LGBTQ+ youth. Follow us on Facebook for updates and information! We look forward to seeing you there!

Human Library

11:00 am – 9:00 pm

10:30 am Free McDougall United Church 10086 MacDonald Drive

$10 admission Included in Pride Pass End of Steel Park This is definitely THE place to be on June 10th! Bring your friends, co-workers and family to celebrate One Pride, Many

Mark Chiang is speaking. Relevant message. Special music, featuring the Edmonton Vocal Minority Choir and other performers. www.McDougallUnited.com

Voices together! We will have live music and, of course, the best party in the city as we kick off the festival season. Want to skip the line? Purchase your Pride Pass in advance and save at all other EPFS hosted events. Pride Passes are one of the few fundraisers that the Edmonton Pride

Noon - 5:00 p.m.

Festival has and we sincerely appreciate

FREE

your support!

Strathcona Community

For More Information:

Center Lounge

www.edmontonpride.ca

A Human Library is a unique opportunity for people to learn about each other

- Con’t on next Page 2017 OFFICIAL PRIDE PROGRAM

SUNDAY, JUNE 11 - Con’t Queer History Project Exhibit noon – 3:00 pm FREE Formerly the Devonian Botanic Garden

Olive You for Oil of Eternity Pride Date Night

June 15, 6pm til dusk Bring your Pride date to an oil and vinegar tasting in the charming setting of the Kurimoto Japanese Garden. Evoolution will be here to help you discover high quality olive oils and balsamic vinegars. Re s e r ve Yo u r O il and Vi n e g a r Ta sting To day!

Strathcona Park Edmonton has a rich but hidden LGBTQ+ history. Many landmark advances in LGBTQ+ rights started right here in Edmonton. Come and see Edmonton’s Queer History Project, originally displayed at the Alberta Art Gallery in June 2015 in celebration of the 35th Anniversary of the Edmonton Pride Festival.

Foster and Adoptive Caregiver Information Session 1:00 – 2:00 pm

Come out to our family forum and learn how to double, triple or even quadruple your pride! Information about LGBTQ fostering and adoption for families. Come out and mingle, ask questions and share stories. For More Information:

$5 at the gate 2-for-1 Pride Pass Strathcona Park Rain or shine we will be hosting our annual family picnic. Bring the kids and

12130 River Valley Rd NW You’re sure of a big surprise.

Noon - 3:00 pm

5 km north of Devon on Hwy 60

Victoria Park Pavilion

Strathcona Community Hall Lounge

One Pride BBQ Presented by ReMax and Planet Organic

Located in Parkland County,

$15

If you go down to the woods today

kinship-care/14908.html

780-987-3054 e x t . 2259 botanicgarden.ualberta.ca

Noon - 3pm

FREE

www.humanservices.alberta.ca/foster-

We’re Proud to be Part of Pride.

Bears in the Park BBQ

If you go down to the woods today You’d better go in disguise! For every bear that ever there was Will gather there for certain, Because today’s the day the Bears have their picnic. Join the bears and cubs from the Fellowship of Alberta bears as they feast in the park to celebrate Edmonton Pride. As always we will be cooking up all you can eat burgers hot-dogs, drinks and salads for $15. We will have a bunch of outdoor games to play. For More Information: www.albearta.org

Consent with Pride presented by Alberta Sex Positive Education and Community Centre 11 am, 1 pm and 3 pm

stop by to see Chicken John’s petting zoo,

Free

grab a hat from the balloon artisan, or let

The Red Ribbon Building

the kids burn off some of the that excess

9702 111 Ave NW

energy in the ReMax bouncy house.

Join us for a day of Consent with Pride!

We would also like to invite residents of

We are hosting consent workshops

the surrounding community to join us as

with youth volunteers offering cookie

well. Come meet the EPFS Board and join

decorating and consent poster contest

in an afternoon of fun.

through the day.

ONE PRIDE. MANY VOICES. 2017

For More Information: www.aspecc.ca

Interfaith Pride Service 1:00 pm FREE Strathcona Community League 10139 87 Avenue Raise your queer religious voice! We’ll be affirming our spirituality and sexual/ gender identities at our 4th annual Interfaith Service. Hosted by a crosssection of LGBTQ-affirming faith communities in Edmonton. For More Information email: mark@uccedm.org

University of Alberta Botanic Garden, Parkland County, 5 km north of Devon on Hwy 60, 15 minutes SW of Edmonton Park

SoulOUTing 7:00 pm FREE Robertson-Wesley United Church 10209 123 Street Raise your queer religious voice! We’ll be affirming our spirituality and our sexual and gender identities at this annual interfaith event. Soul OUTing is a queer faith-sharing For More Information email: mdrdhiang@hotmail.com

Experience what happens when elite Fairmont mixologists join forces to craft a cocktail menu. Visit The Confederation Lounge or patio, and let us serve you a refreshing beverage from around the world. Fairmont Hotel Macdonald T: 780-424-5181 E: mac.dining@fairmont.com

Fruits in Suits - Pride Mix ‘n’ Mingle 5:30pm - 8:30pm Admission: Free Chic-Hog-O’s 10111 117 Street

TUESDAY JUNE 13

Classics. Perfected.

Bring your date to an oil & vinegar tasting in the charming setting of the Japanese Garden. Evolution will help you discover high quality olive oils and balsamic vinegars and how to use them in everyday cooking.

Edmonton’s gayest happy hour! Join us after work for casual conversation over mojitos and great food. All welcome. No suit required!

altView Presents: Pride Tea 5:30 pm

For More Information: Capital Club Facebook Group

$30 Suggested Donation Four Points by Sheraton Sherwood Park 1005 Provincial Ave, Sherwood Park

Beers for Queers 6:00 pm - 11:55 pm Free

Join altView for an evening of tea, snacks and entertainment!

Empress Ale House 9912 82 Avenue

For More Information: www.altview.ca

Special guest DJ Bebop Cortez

THURSDAY JUNE 15

Read and Write with Pride

Pride Date Night at the Garden 6:00 pm - Dusk $22.50 for oil & vinegar tasting. Admission and taxes extra. Must reserve ahead at botanicgarden.ualberta.ca or 780-987-3054 ext 2223

7:00 pm Free Audrey’s Books 10702 Jasper Avenue Local LGBT authors share their new fiction and verse. For More Information: www.Audreys.ca

- Con’t on next Page 19 2017 OFFICIAL PRIDE PROGRAM

Exceptionally

Friday, July 28 is Pride Day at K-Days. Celebrate with us as we welcome special entertainment and fun. 1 8 Oout N E K-Days.com P R I D E . M A N Y for V O I details! CES. 2017 Check

JULY 21-30 | #KDAYS

Join Edmonton Pride

Friday, July 28th

as we enjoy K-Days with PRIDE! Our partners at Northlands have worked closely with us to come up with a LGBTQ+ artist line up that has something for everyone!

A LOVE AFFAIR WITH THE CITY

By purchasing your

Rainbow Colored socks at the Northlands booth on June 10th for only $10 you will receive complimentary gate admission to K-Days on July 28!

Not only that but 100% of the proceeds of this fundraiser will directly support LGBTQ+ youth in rural Alberta!

Laugh Out Proud Comedy Night at Yuk Yuks 7:30 - 9:30 pm

SATURDAY, JUNE 17 2017 St Albert Pride Celebration

Show at 8:30 pm

3:00 - 6:00 pm

$15

Free

Yuk Yuks at Century Casino

Lions Park

13103 Fort Road A night of laughs for the LGBTQ communities and our friends with great comics from near and far featuring headliner Eman El-Husseini. Eman is a hilarious comic, a proud Muslim Canadian, and a member of the LGBT community,

for 10 years & counting.

St Albert This year’s St. Albert Pride BBQ will take place on Saturday, June 17th, 2017 from 3 – 6 p.m. in Lions Park. Please join us for food, entertainment and more as we cultivate an inclusive and welcoming community for all!

based in New York City.

For More Information: StAlbertPride.ca

For More Information:

Movie: In The Turn (by Erica Tremblay) Presented by the Pride Center of Edmonton and the Edmonton Pride Festival

PrideCentreOfEdmonton.org

FRIDAY, JUNE 16 Alberta Men of Leather presents: Pride Play Party 6:00 pm- midnight $10 Steamworks Edmonton 11745 Jasper Ave

4:00 pm

Metro Cinema 8712 109 St (possibly starting with a march along the High Level Bridge sidewalk from the Legislature to Metro Cinema)

Leather Facebook Page

JOIN IN or START A NEW ACTIVITY

via Eventbrite and at the door

with Steamworks is hosting the Pride For More Information: Alberta Men of

what’s your GAME?

$5 - $10 (Sliding Scale)

Alberta Men of Leather in association Men’s Play Party.

COME OUT AND PLAY.

IN THE TURN follows Crystal, a 10-yearold transgender girl growing up in rural

WWW.TEAMEDMONTON.CA

- Con’t on next Page 21 2017 OFFICIAL PRIDE PROGRAM

THERE’S NO PLACE LIKE HOME

Every person has the right to a safe, secure home. The 2016 Edmonton Homeless Count found that 21% of youth experiencing homelessness identiﬁed as LGBTQ2S+ Ending homelessness & youth homelessness in our city is possible.

We are working toward that important goal.

Ontario as she navigates the difficult and complicated world that surrounds her. IN THE TURN documents Crystal’s journey as she and her family struggle against the challenges of prejudice, hatred and ignorance. After being denied the right to join local athletics teams due to her gender, Crystal and her mom serendipitously discover the Vagine Regime, an international queer collective of roller derby players comprised of people of all shapes, sizes, backgrounds and identities. The Vagine Regime not only accepts Crystal, but actively supports her journey. Crystal emerges from exclusion into empowerment: she steps out of the shadows and onto the track. IN THE TURN weaves Crystal’s story into the broader narrative of the evolution of roller derby from a niche sport into a social movement with strong roots in the LGBTQ community. Crystal adds her profile to the mosaic of other transgender, lesbian, and queer roller derby skaters who have found acceptance and empowerment in the Vagine Regime. For More Information: pridecentreofedmonton.org

Fruit Loop Pride Party 8:00 pm $10 The Needle Vinyl Tavern * 10524 Jasper Avenue *Free street parking south of Jasper Ave Corona station is the closest LRT stop. Please join us as we return to celebrate Edmonton Pride Week with community partner HIV Edmonton. Once again we’ll have local drag and burlesque performances as well as our fabulous DJ’s to in the house all night long!!

HAPPY PRIDE FROM YOUR UNDERWEAR STORE 10151 WHYTE AVE THEBRIEFINGROOM.CA

Delicious drink specials with $1 of each drink sold shared with the community partner for the evening . . . and don’t forget about our MIDNIGHT DANCE OFF!! We will be giving away awesome prizes! All proceeds provide support to Alberta’s LGBTQ + community. For More Information: Fruit Loop Facebook Page

ONE PRIDE. MANY VOICES. 2017

SUNDAY JUNE 18 12th Annual Mayor’s Pride Brunch in Support of Camp fYrefly 11:00 am - 1:00 pm $55 Chateau Lacombe 10111 Bellamy Hill Rd Join us for the 12th annual Mayor’s Pride Brunch in support of Camp fYrefly! Proceeds support the camp’s work to foster leadership and resiliency in queer and trans youth. For More Information: www.ismss.ualberta.ca

Movie: A Womb Of Their Own Presented by the Pride Center of Edmonton and the Edmonton Pride Festival 1:00 pm $5 - $10 (Sliding Scale) Tickets via Eventbrite or at the door. Metro Cinema 8712 109 St www.seriousplayfilms.com Screening followed by a panel featuring the filmmaker in attendance and a panel related to masculine, trans and butch parents and pregnancy. How do people who don’t experience themselves as simply female or male handle a culture that offers only these two identities? A Womb of Their Own introduces a charismatic, funny, thoughtful group of masculine-ofcenter-identified people who experience pregnancy. Each individual and couple navigate gender expectations even from the LGBT community that don’t fit their

experience of themselves. Follow their stories as they establish their own unique gender, develop their definition of family, grow a baby in their bodies, and birth, chestfeed and parent their children as non-binary masculine people. “Cyn Lubow’s film, A Womb of Their Own, explores the experience of pregnancy for subjects all over the trans-masculine spectrum. Here was the film that I was missing throughout my pregnancy. I saw myself reflected in the articulate, thoughtful subjects of the film… This film is a much-needed counter to the compulsory femininity often heaped on expecting parents of all genders” – Charlie King-Miller, Mutha Magazine.

Edmonton Vocal Minority Presents What the World Needs Now 4:00 pm $20/$15 Timms Centre for Music U of A Campus 87 Ave. & 112 St Edmonton Vocal Minority’s Pride concert celebrates the power of love to unite rather then divide. The choir presents a Queerly entertaining afternoon of music that will feature familiar tunes, slick choreography, and a few surprises.

For More Information:

pridecentreofedmonton.org

www.evmchoir.com

Celebrating over

years of

Progress. Proud supporter of Edmonton Pride Week.

Haven Worship Service 7:00 pm Free McDougall United Church Corner 101 Street & MacDonald Drive Haven is an inclusive Christian community of LGBTQ Christians, straight friends, and others who don’t feel they ‘fit’ in. We worship every third Sunday of the month. For More Information: havenyeg.com

Photo by Shandro Photo

2017 OFFICIAL PRIDE PROGRAM

Share pride photos faster than you can take them. TELUS PureFibre

Internet reimagined.

Learn more about the #1 internet technology for speed and reliability† at telus.com/purefibre

† Traditional copper wire or copper wire hybrid networks are subject to capacity constraints and environmental stresses that do not affect TELUS fibre optic technology, which is based on light signals. TELUS, the TELUS logo, TELUS PureFibre, the future is friendly and telus.com are trademarks of TELUS Corporation, used under licence. All rights reserved. © 2017 TELUS. 17_00462

ONE PRIDE. MANY VOICES. 2017

The Parent Activist

Voice

Ruby Remenda Swanson

My entry point into LGBT activism was the same-sex marriage debate. Initially I was hurt and saddened by anti-same-sex marriage news reports and comments. Over a few weeks, my sadness turned into disbelief, then anger. I was driven to take a stand, to publicly acknowledge I had a gay son, celebrate every part of him, and defend his right to have equal status in our country. I wanted both of my children to have identical rights. Anything else was unthinkable. The LGBT community is made up of our sons and daughters, best friends, coworkers, neighbours, favourite aunts and uncles, parents, brothers and sisters. They all need the support of outspoken straight allies. Legislators have to hear from all citizens not just isolated minority or special interest groups. For over a dozen years I’ve written letters, made phone calls, done interviews, attended town halls and protest rallies, marched in Pride Parades and arranged meetings with politicians and civic leaders. My son, Carl, did not experience bullying in school. He had strong support from his friends and family. In 2004 his school allowed him to start a GSA (gay-straight alliance). Unfortunately things are different now. The availability of social media has diversified and intensified opportunities for cruelty for countless potential targets. The most innocent events can be twisted and spun out of control in minutes with a smart phone. This makes it all the more important for schools and school boards, governments and human rights organizations to have policies and laws

in place that provide protection for all Canadians. I will always have a gay son and LGBT issues have become part of my day-to-day life. My deep love for my son challenged me to confront my own fear and paranoia about homosexuality and how it is perceived in North America. The openly homophobic language that was used by every age group throughout my life until recently is now confined mostly to senior citizens, adolescents, and those who will never get it. For over a decade I’ve actively promoted the workplace as a safe space. I look for rainbow flags in business windows and hold people accountable for “colourful language.” Every gay person has a family and odds are their parents are asking the same questions and have the same concerns as my husband and I had. Initially I felt alone. We quickly found out other folks felt just like we did. My wish, for everyone who struggles with similar fears, is address those fears, meet them head on. Silence is not neutral it’s harmful. For change to happen everyone has be courageous and speak up. It will give you strength. There are millions of families with LGBT kids who need love and acceptance. Hold your children and tell them you love them. Become an activist and show the world that you are not only an ally but also an advocate. Ruby is the author of “A Family Outing,” a book about the experience she’s had as a result of having a gay son.

2017 OFFICIAL PRIDE PROGRAM

The Queer Senior Voice Michael Phair

Suddenly it seems that I am one of the many senior voices (elderly gay male) in the queer community! I moved to Edmonton in the fall of 1980 – nearly 37 years ago. I had been hired by Alberta Education, then located in the Oliver neighborhood, which is where I still reside. Edmonton had a population of 505,000, two gay bars (Flashback and The Roost), three bath houses (Pisces, Gemini and The Georgia), two major social organizations (GATE – Gay Alliance Towards Equality and the Imperial Sovereign Court of the Wild Rose – Drag Queens) and everyone was young! Today, with nearly one million Edmontonians, if you are queer and remember and were active in the events or organizations that I have mentioned above – you are an elderly GLBTQ person – no longer young!! With a small group of 10-15 persons, I am now involved with the Edmonton Pride Senior Group which operates out of Sage Edmonton. Over the past four years, our group have been discussing what life is like for older GLBTQ persons in Edmonton. With the support of 3 or 4 grants from the City of Edmonton, the Edmonton Pride Senior Group have completed a survey of 130 older GLBTQ persons (55+) that revealed: 1. About 45% were NOT partnered 2. 13% were living on income under $40,000 per year 3. A large majority hoped to continue living in their own home/ condo/apartment

4. Most persons do not want to go back into the closet if actively engaged with senior centres, programs, or senior housing 5. If not able to live on their own, many want to live in housing that is ‘friendly’— surrounded by like persons male or female. Although the survey did not capture as wide a range of persons as hoped for (few bi, trans individuals, aboriginal, low income), the Edmonton Pride Senor Group reviewed what was learned and, through discussions and examining additional resources about elderly GLBTQ persons from other cities in Canada and the United States, have undertaken a number of initiatives as follows:

Over my 37 years in Edmonton, a great deal has changed in Alberta and Canada for our community that has been progressive and supportive of us. In the ‘senior’ stage of life there is the need for our voice to join the many voices to advocate for the GLBTQ community and I am a proud member of one those groups — Edmonton Pride Senior Group!

1. Developed a ‘Learning Module’ about older GLBTQ persons that, on a trial basis, is offered to staff working with seniors in senior centres, programs and senior housing 2. Have met with the Alberta Provincial Senior Advocate to both present information from our survey and ensure the Advocate’s office will appropriately respond to GLBTQ issues 3. Are providing workshops about issues faced by elderly GLBTQ persons to various community organisations/groups 4. Initiating conversations with queer youth and older GLBTQ persons around self-advocacy 5. With the City of Edmonton, in the fall of 2017 undertaking a housing feasibility study on future housing in Edmonton for elderly GLBTQ persons.

ONE PRIDE. MANY VOICES. 2017

Photo by Shandro Photo

2017 OFFICIAL PRIDE PROGRAM

Parade Route

PRIDE IN THE PARK TD BANK MAIN STAGE

Beverage Gardens

1:00-1:30pm

Emmet Michael

1:00-1:30pm

Quinn Wade

1:40-2:00pm

Imperial Sovereign

1:40-2:10pm

Must Be Tuesday

Court of the Wild Rose

2:20-3:00pm Amy Hef

2:00-2:30pm Welcome Ceremony

3:10-3:55pm Klusterfunk

2:30-3:00pm

Evan Westfal

4:05-4:50pm Head Over Heels

3:10-4:10pm

MAN UP!

5:00-6:00pm Patrick Masse

4:20-4:50pm

Dallas Arcand

6:00-9:00pm DJ Mike Tomas

5:00-6:00pm TBC

Dentons. More than just Purple Dentons. Now the world’s largest global elite law firm.*

Notice of Filming & Photography

dentons.com

The Edmonton Pride Parade and Festival Site (Whyte Avenue, End of Steel and Strathcona Park) will be used to record video and audio footage for the Edmonton Pride Festival Society. By your presence in the area you acknowledge that you have been informed that you may be photographed and/or recorded as part of our advertising and promotional campaign. Further, by your presence here you grant your irrevocable permission for your likeness, picture and voice to be included in the program.

Thank you for your cooperation. Any Questions? Angela Bennett – 780-267-7433

ONE PRIDE. MANY VOICES. 2017

*Acritas Global Elite Law Firm Brand Index 2013-2016.

Our 2017 Parade Marshall:

The Two-Spirit Community “Two-Spirit“ is an identity that varies, depending on tribe and region of Canada. However, it is most widely recognized as a person with the spirit and soul of both male and female in one body. This identity is highly regarded in the indigenous community; the individual is often consulted in community issues such as marriage counselling, medicine and other consulting roles. Homophobia and transphobia are concepts introduced by colonialism, and thus many teachings of Two-Spirit have been erased with the effects of colonialism. Photos by Shandro Photo

The Parent of a Trans Child’s

Voice

Carry Perrier

I am the proud parent of 2 trans children. The first, my daughter, came out to me 7 years ago when she was 18. And honestly, it was a big surprise to me. I struggled silently with my own concerns. This was new terrain and I was worried about alienating her with my questions - What was appropriate to ask? Was it even my business? And then there was the worry about how she would navigate the world. How would people treat her? I had seen how trans women were treated, and it scared me. However, there was one thing I was sure of: she was still my child and I would support her any way I could. Last year, my wife and I became guardians of a young trans man. We knew he was struggling with his family and their lack of acceptance and support with his transition, but we didn’t know how bad it was until he ended up in the ER after a suicide attempt. I went to visit him in the ER and did the best I could to advocate for him without angering his mother, but I was at a loss as to how else I could help. I tried to convince her that it was better to have a living son, than a dead daughter. Nevertheless, she was adamant that he was too young to know himself.

The next time he felt suicidal, he left home instead of hurting himself. He was homeless for a few months before we found out and asked him to move in with us. This experience has given us even more insight into how difficult it is for trans youth – especially homeless trans youth. There is a startling lack of resources for trans youth who become homeless. They have access to the same system that any other child does, but it’s not specialized to support their specific needs. As much as we wish we could, we cannot adopt them all. With the political climate the way it is, I felt a need to do something instead of sitting and stewing. So, at the encouragement of a friend, I joined the board of the Society for Safe Accommodations for Queer Edmonton Youth (SAFQEY, safqey.com). Its mission and values are in line with what I believe, and we are doing what I wanted to do, just on a larger scale. Volunteering doesn’t make the want to protect all of the homeless children go away, but it is a step in the right direction. 2017 OFFICIAL PRIDE PROGRAM

The Privileged Ally of Marginalized Queer People

Voice

A year ago, I wouldn’t have written that last sentence. A year ago, when a group of queer people of colour stopped a parade on the other side of the country, my response was immediately not for them. A year ago, I lived inside my privilege. Eleven months ago, I decided to come out of the closet again. This time I was coming out as a gay, white, cisgendered man who wasn’t going to allow his privilege to blind him to the plight of his community’s marginalized people. In the past eleven months, I have grown, I have learned, and I have become a better human being, because I chose to respond to an attack on my privilege by surrendering and admitting that I was wrong, that it wasn’t about me, and that I needed to step back and let it be about others and not my colour of the rainbow. This past year has helped me realize what Pride should be about in today’s world. Decades ago, Pride was a protest, it was our community demanding to have its voice heard. While the movement was started by our most marginalized members, it was the mainstream voices that were easiest to swallow, and society started to listen to them while putting the harder to hear voices on the backburner. Recently, as those

Voice

Angel Sumka, President of Alberta Sex Positive

Clayton Hitchcock

Protest is what I focus on when I think about the past year. With so many foul and scary things happening in our world, protest gives me hope.

The Sex Positive

Education and

well heard voices found acceptance, rights, and freedoms, Pride evolved into a party. Pride became a celebration of how far we welcomed voices have come. Still though, our marginalized members remain vastly unheard. So, moving forward is what we must do. We must again make Pride a Movement. Whether by protest and rally or by simply stepping to the side to give marginalized voices a space to be heard. We welcomed voices fought and won our rights and freedoms. We feel Pride because of that fight, those struggles we faced. If we were to use our influence to force the acceptance of our marginalized voices instead of them fighting for and winning them for themselves, would they feel that same Pride? By my standing up and speaking on their behalf, am I robbing them of the feeling of achievement I feel every day that I can walk tall and free in my country? That’s for those voices to answer not me. If it is the case, then perhaps the next time I am given the space and opportunity to fight for those voices, to speak for those rights and freedoms, to make people listen and understand, I should instead welcome those voices into the space given to me and let those voices have a chance to speak for themselves, fight for themselves, and make people understand their truth in their own way.

ONE PRIDE. MANY VOICES. 2017

Community Centre

We live in a society that is often hesitant and judgemental about sex and sexuality. Battles as to how much sexual information to teach youth, about who can use which bathroom, and about what type of intimate relationships are appropriate for raising children are just a few of the ongoing societal conversations that highlight our struggle with viewing sex and sexuality in a positive, accepting light. Sex positive means to view consensual sex as healthy, regardless of the details. As a sex positive person, for example, I believe that consensual sex is a healthy, pleasurable part of life, and not just my sexuality nor just my way of expressing that sexuality, but all sexualities. Sex positive is the view that from asexual to panaexual, from masturbation to swinging, from monogamous to ethical non-monogamy, consensual intimacy should be celebrated, not shamed. Accepted, not restricted. Supported, not rejected. It is my most fervent hope that as we celebrate another year of Pride we will also see less fear and shame based sex education, more acceptance and inclusion; that our laws will continue to change to reflect a sex positive view, from LGBTQIA+ rights, to legal recognition that not all families fit the two partner model; and that we each can find self acceptance for our own sexual selves, while also accepting that we each have the right to engage in consensual sexual relationships and/or activities that are meaningful to us.

RE/MAX IS PROUD TO SUPPORT THE 2017 EDMONTON PRIDE FESTIVAL

For all your real estate needs. Go with those who know.

remax.ca Each office independently owned and operated.

2017 OFFICIAL PRIDE PROGRAM

2017 Pride Festival Entertainment AMY HEF

from Kipohtakaw (Alexander) Cree Nation, located near

Currently splitting her

has always been prominent in his upbringing, empowering

time between Calgary and LA, she’s a recording artist,

Edmonton, Alberta, Canada. His passion for Arts and culture him to become a three-time World Champion Hoop Dancer.

straight-talking songwriter, single-minded in her mission to conquer the international music scene. Amy’s songs are bold, full of swagger, which is starting to catch the attention of fans, producers and music industry big fish. Amy is known for her work hard, play (music) harder work ethic, an honor student at Musicians Institute (Hollywood, CA) AMP Radio’s Rock Star, 102.3 NOW! Radio Breakout Artist and George Stroumboulopoulos Top 3 Buzz Bands. Her album “AH!” (available on iTunes) includes her original songs Perfect, Dumb it Down, I Can’t Wait (all featured on Keeping Up with the Kardashians, Real World Road Rules, Bad Girls Club), and her party anthem, Being Awesome (also featured on MTV’s Best Ink) will be sure to have you singing along.

Imperial Sovereign Court of the Wild Rose Social Association The mission of the ISCWRSA is to raise funds, through activities by the Imperial Sovereign Court of the Wild Rose, for charities and other organizations which either provide direct services to the GLBT community of Edmonton or those which work to promote an accepting attitude to gays and lesbians in the community as a whole. Our fundraising efforts are done by performing and hosting various Drag shows and Pageants throughout the year.

Emmet Michael Emmet Michael is a female to male transgender solo artist that plays music locally. He’s an advocate for the LGBTQ community and has done many events related to the subject.

Dallas Arcand Dallas Arcand, AKA Nimihto Paskwa Mostôs Napew (Dancing Buffalo Man) is an Aboriginal Entertainer

ONE PRIDE. MANY VOICES. 2017

He’s not afraid to be who he is and to bare his soul on the stage.

MAN UP!’s productions include their sold-out, held-over, critically-acclaimed, self-titled debut at the Edmonton International Fringe Festival, BONDAGE: A Tribute to 007, SPICE BOYS, and CIRQUE ELECTRIQUE. Later this summer, catch MAN UP! as they head back to Fringe in their all-new production, DADDY ISSUES.

Must Be Tuesday Must Be Tuesday is an alternative folk act from downtown Edmonton, best known for the polyamory-positive song My Boyfriend’s Girlfriend. The 2013 album Cover Me I’m Going

Evan Westfal Evan Westfal is an Edmonton based singer-songwriter, actor, and vocal instructor. His music has been described

In includes catchy funny songs about zombies, video games, and how awkward it is to come out as transgender. Must Be Tuesday is a solo act by genderqueer songwriter Jamie Price.

as “playful,” “intellectual,” and “hella gay!” Evan is at home on the stage, having performed in the Canadian stage premiere of Dr. Horrible in the role of Captain Hammer, he has sung for the Edmonton Opera Chorus, as well as Opera Nuova, and he regularly produces and performs cabarets. Evan is most proud of his work singing backing vocals for Josh Groban. When Evan isn’t performing, he endeavours to create positive change through community work and activism. He facilitated JamOut a youth music program at the Pride Centre of Edmonton for over three years, and he is an Education Facilitator for fYrefly in schools, a program that reaches out to junior and senior high classrooms, teaching students about homophobia, transphobia, and inclusiveness. Evan was also a founding member of the Edmonton Men’s Health Collective, a grassroots community group that focuses on the health needs of queer men. Evan has recently launched his inaugural EP entitled: Gay Pirates.

MAN UP! Dressed in high heels, MAN UP! delivers the message of selflove, finding confidence in one’s authenticity, and security in one’s sexuality. They hope to be a catalyst that breaks down gender norms, encouraging all people to live shame-free and authentic lives. They could not be more pumped to be performing on the Edmonton Pride Festival stage and to be sharing their message with their hometown audience.

HEAD OVER HEELS HEAD OVER HEELS is a versatile group that delivers a live music “hits” show for special events, parties and festivals. A live band with five professional musicians performs well known songs, from timeless ’60s classics, ’70s, ’80s and ’90s rock & pop, and contemporary hits. This group thrives on spontaneity, fun and an infectious group chemistry. HEAD OVER HEELS is based out of the Edmonton area.

ONE PRIDE. MANY VOICES. 2017

compassion through understanding. Our song “Voodoo Doctor” specifically addresses the injustices that the LGBTQ+ community faces everyday. We have a desire to break down gender stereotypes and promote acceptance of all sexual orientations. Our live show is both entertaining and informative. Complete with hilarious and colourful costumes,

KLUSTERFUNK

we often use dialogue based skits

KLUSTERFUNK is an 11 piece, wild, energetic party band with an agenda: To turn all the worlds bad feelin’s,

to bring up societal issues in a constructive way. We believe it’s critical for musicians to be writing songs

into good feelin’s! In our music and lyrics, we advocate for mental health / suicide awareness, human rights, and

about important, relevant issues, and to play those songs with unparalleled conviction and passion.

grasshopper - kristallweizen This wheat ale has a crisp finish, balancing its soft sweetness with fruity and bready notes.

proud supporter of the edmonton pride festival WWW.BIGROCKBEER.COM Photos by Shandro Photo

2017 OFFICIAL PRIDE PROGRAM

Zdrój, Poland, he’s opened for everyone from Ne-Yo to Dragonette to 50 Cent (and a whole bunch more!). Shy and humble, Mike is known for being quiet on the microphone as he’d rather let the music be the star. Don’t underestimate his talent though — he always works the turntables flawlessly to spin the best mix of new music, top 40 and house for you! Any given weekend he could be mixing at a club in Edmonton or jetting off to Las

Patrick Masse

Vegas. It’s a tough job, but somebody’s

Canadian Patrick Masse is a Vancouver

requests live weekdays during the 5

native, and a constant in the Canadian

O’Clock Traffic Jam, only on KiSS 91.7!

gotta do it. Hear him spin your

Country music scene since releasing his first album “Get There From Here”. Patrick’s second album, “Mend

YOUR ICELANDIC FISH CONNECTION ft. ARCTIC CHAR / COD / HADDOCK / REDFISH

the Man” had charted singles and garnered him a nomination for the Ray MacAuley Memorial ‘Horizon’ BCCMA Award. The album’s extensive international airplay has gained him a loyal global fan base. His latest single “Little Bit of Saturday” is produced by Kuya Productions, best known for their work with Alessia Cara, JRDN,

VISIT US AT OUR STORE AND AT THE CITY MARKET DOWNTOWN

Shawn Desmond and more.

Quinn Wade A long-time musician, busker, mover and shaker Quinn Wade has travelled across north America sharing his music with anyone that wants to hear it. Known to move in some pretty incredible circles he’s most comfortable around people from all

780.930.1901 10019 167 STREET, EDMONTON OCEANODYSSEYINLAND.CA 34

walks of life. He’s known for being at the most unexpected places at just the

DJ Mike Tomas

right time, always with his sax at his

DJ Mike Tomas is Edmonton’s most

drag and of course any where he can

popular DJ. Originally from Duszniki-

pull out his sax.

ONE PRIDE. MANY VOICES. 2017

side. He has performed live theatre,

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2017 OFFICIAL PRIDE PROGRAM

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The Edmonton Public Schools

Voice Michelle Draper, Board Chair, Edmonton Public Schools

Sometimes, it may be easy to think of public schools as just buildings. We talk a lot about school buildings. (We need more of them, by the way, to meet the needs of an ever growing student population.) Yet public schools are buildings that sit firmly on the foundational ideal of public education. At its heart, public education is an ideal that must embrace everyone.

Schools’ Sexual Orientation and Gender Identity Policy and Administrative Regulation are one way we are able to get the ideals of public education to influence real life and make a difference. Clear rules and guidelines can help teach the expectations of what a safe, caring, welcoming learning and working environment looks and feels like.

Our Board is proud of being a leader in inclusivity and diversity. We work with our students, parents, staff, and community partners to inform, help guide our decision-making, and shine a light on where we need to go next. Our doors are open for everyone to walk through. Whatever the colour of your skin, whether you are religious, agnostic or atheist, we have a desk here for you. Whether you are lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, questioning or something else, there’s a place for you in our classrooms.

We pay close attention to the quality of our school buildings because they are such an integral part of creating a high-quality learning experience for students. But Edmonton Public Schools is about people. We are a reflection of the diverse, remarkable community we serve. Our students have different faces, different experiences, and different lives. We love that about them and our school staff strive to serve each one of their unique needs. What’s constant is our desire for them all to achieve the same successful outcome: a life in and beyond school that brings them dignity and fulfillment. A life that brings them Pride.

Sometimes it takes a while for these ideals to trickle down into hearts and minds, and into thoughts and actions. Policies like Edmonton Public

laurenhannahphoto.com Photo by Shandro Photo

2017 OFFICIAL PRIDE PROGRAM

The Bathroom

Voice

Leslea Herber, TESA Co-founder, Board Member, Treasurer

All about the bathroom myth: lately there has been a LOT of discussion all over the place, about bathrooms and who gets to use them. Who qualifies and under what circumstances. There have been a lot of complaints about how dare trans people want to use the bathroom that aligns with their gender identity and their gender expression. Of course trans people have been using that set of facilities for decades (the first “media trans woman”, was Christine Jorgensen, who transitioned in the late 1940’s early 1950’s and had GRS in 1952), and in the last century (trans women were getting GRS as early as the late 1920’s, early 30’s), the number of times where it has been confirmed that a trans person has physically attacked a woman or child in a bathroom has tallied precisely zero confirmed times. Nope, not once. Ever. The opposite cannot be claimed. Trans people, trans women and those of colour in particular, have been facing escalating violence for decades now. That’s the superficial bit. Bathroom bills and denying trans people the right to a safe place to sit while voiding, aren’t really about protecting women or kids. Just like it wasn’t about water fountains. It’s about denying our right to exist in public spaces. It’s worth thinking about. How many times dear reader, do you use the facilities? At work, the mall, the theatre, at a gas station while on a road trip or any other time you’re in public? What would happen to your life, if you were restricted to only using private privies? No more shopping trips. No more road trips. No more school. No more work. The sad fact is that the real purpose of these sorts of

ONE PRIDE. MANY VOICES. 2017

hateful things, is to prevent trans people from being able to be in public for more than brief stints. In the USA, it’s so pervasive now, that there are even now safe bathroom mapping apps for phones, showing where trans-friendly businesses, unisex/single-use bathrooms can be found. It’s not just affecting trans people either. There have been multiple incidents where masculine appearing cisgender women and feminine appearing cisgender men have been accosted and refused access to the bathroom that they normally use. Some of these incidents have involved significant violence perpetrated against the perceived trans-looking person by security personnel and police. This has recently – and fortunately – been addressed in Alberta law, when gender identity and gender expression were added to the provincial human rights act. But this is still an issue worthy of keeping an eye on and be aware not all provinces are as progressive in this regard. The federal government has been stalled for years now in regard to adding gender identity and gender expression to the federal laws and codes. Twice so far, bills have died on the docket when elections ended up Photo by Shandro Photo being called, and currently a third is trying to wend its way through the Senate. What this boils down to is: do we as Albertans and Canadians prefer the option to hate legally? Or do we want to be inclusive of diversity? Ultimately, only time will tell. In the meantime, we have folks like the Trans Equality Society of Alberta (tesaonline.org) working diligently to bring about the latter option. It’s been a long trek so far, and there’s really no end in sight at this point. So we run the marathon and hope for the best in the meantime.

Accepted everywhere.

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The Non-Binary Bitch

Voice F.H. Locock

The Naked

Voice

Fred Dicker

“Where the sun does not shine” is an expression often used to refer to parts of the human body. Well the sun shines everywhere at the Buck Naked Boys Club of Alberta (BNBC) and tan lines are to be eliminated. We are an Alberta’s men’s nudist club. We are not a sex club so sexual orientation does not matter, but most guys do identify as gay or bisexual. There are several nudist clubs around, but most are very heterosexual and are unfriendly and often forbidden places for a single men or a gay couples – so I started BNBC. Our first event was a house party at my house in January 1997 and have met most months ever since. In the last 5 monthly house parties, we have enjoyed 30 guys 3 times at my house in Edmonton. Five times a year there is a weekend retreat at a rural hotel in the foothills with 20 guys attending on average. We have held several houseboat trips in BC over the years. There will be acreage weekends near Edmonton in 2017. Why nudism? Well, why not?! You do not have to worry about what to wear! Enjoying being naked is a great feeling. For me the social freedom is the best part because no one has anything left to hide! Many great friendships have happened over the years – and a couple of marriages. The “boys” part of our club name is not very accurate but it is good fun because most guys are older. To join us send an email to bnbc@shaw.ca and I will send you our monthly newsletter. There are no membership fees. Fred Dicker is the organizer of BNBC and can be reached at bnbc@shaw.ca.

I represent only me, I represent not my “lifestyle” or my “community”. I got anger issues and I like my skirts, I’m quite loud and my voice cracks from overuse. I have mental illness ranging from intrusive thoughts to narcissism; anxiety so bad it ties my insides in knots. My point is I ain’t pretty, no androgynous suits here to be seen. I am the queen, my identity shouldn’t be validated because some straight guy decided I was man enough to ignore my kitty. I’m always mad always big always too violent for anyone and everyone around me. I can’t see. I can’t see. I think about death and I will ‘til my dying day, I’m a multifaceted person, you can’t take that away because I fall under the loose definition of gay. And I sometimes get tired but I get back up. Day after day I stand, hold out a cup to be filled with Approval Fuck, I am a stereotype but I don’t care, I’m a flower child a stoner and a punk only living because of the next untried dare. I hate that I’m boxed because we cannot and will not all fit. I might not grow up to be another experimental motivational speaking pawn of the man prick. I wanna be a tattoo artist or a butcher, or a mafia kingpin or a florist, maybe I’ll be the 13th doctor and fly a tardis. But I am more than my pronouns, that’s what I’m trying to say under this whole shitty one shot poem we all have different hearts, different games to play. 2017 OFFICIAL PRIDE PROGRAM

The Long-Time Educator

Voice André P. Grace

I once interviewed a young gay male who was a beginning teacher working in a primary classroom. He had placed a picture of his partner on his desk, an act that courageously intersected the personal and the professional. This is something I could never have done as a teacher working in schools before the 1998 decision in Vriend v. Alberta, which granted equality rights to lesbian and gay Canadians. As Blye Frank, Dean, Faculty of Education, University of British Columbia, reminds us, sexual minority teachers have had to work to hide and hide to work. Importantly, Vriend paved the way for greater sexual and gender minority inclusion in law, legislation, and institutional policymaking in our nation. Still, in a contemporary situation about hiding, sexual and gender minority police officers (and allied colleagues) in Toronto have been told they can’t march in uniform in their city’s 2017 Pride parade. While teachers like me had to hide the personal to be professional, in a twist these police officers are directed to hide the professional. This assaults the notion of “pride,” which must be about being visible as whole human beings who can freely intersect the personal and the professional. In post-Charter Canada sexual and gender minority police officers have every right to openly serve Canadians and march in parades. This is because Canadian law upholds equality provisions enshrined in Section 15 of the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms. As a tenet advancing social inclusion that came into effect in 1985, Section 15 guarantees individual rights and protections for sexual and gender minorities. Kathleen A. Lahey, Professor, Faculty of Law, Queen’s University, reminds

us of the importance of this section in relation to the historical exclusion of sexual and gender minorities from police services, the teaching profession, and other civil appointments. In her influential book Are We ‘Persons’ Yet?, Lahey (1999) recounts that sexual and gender minorities have been excluded from all kinds of public positions. She states, “[W]hile lesbians and gays have been struggling to gain admittance through the front door of the services and police, the services and police have been quietly finding new grounds for removing them through the side and back doors” (p. 145). As we contest this history of exclusion, we have to ask: are those who ban sexual and gender minority police officers from marching in uniform are complicit in sustaining it? In his groundbreaking book Pedagogy of the Oppressed, the great Brazilian educator Paulo Freire (1970) maintained, “[A]lmost always, during the initial stage of the struggle, the oppressed, instead of striving for liberation, tend themselves to become oppressors” (p. 45). This statement demands reflection by Pride organizers in Toronto or anywhere else where sexual and gender minority police officers are excluded from marching in uniform in Pride parades. To move the queer civil rights movement to a more inclusive stage, organizers might remember that marching in uniform is a visible reminder that these police officers are out and proud, transgressing a history of defilement.

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The Honest

Voice Sithara Fernando

I use to have many voices. I would lie about my sexuality; I would lie to protect my emotions;, I would pretend to be other people; and I would fake my way into relationships. My many voices have hurt people in unimaginable ways. I am profoundly sorry. I am sorry for not being my authentic self; I am sorry for hurting those around me; I am sorry that I never realized that I had a community of people who would support me for who I am. I am sorry I underestimated the love and kindness of my family. What I didn’t realize is when I lied about my sexuality; I was lying about the core of my being. I became a closeted lying lesbian, and lying became my tool for coping with all stress in my life. I built elaborate lies because I felt inadequate; I felt I never measured up; I felt I needed to be better; and most of all, I never felt like I was enough.

“But, I am enough.” I am worthy of love just the way I am; I don’t need many voices to prove that I am a good person; I needed to find my one voice. I found that voice by stepping out of the closet; I found my voice by owning up to the lies and the hurt that I had caused. My journey to my one voice is littered with unnecessary destruction, and I sincerely regret that. But, I am not sorry that I am lesbian; I am proud of my sexual orientation. I am proud that I have the ability to share my love with others. I am proud that I finally found my one voice, my honest voice. Photo by Shandro Photo

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The Overlooked Bisexual Voice Kayla Piwtorak

Allies are a handy thing to have in the LGBTQ+ landscape, but oftentimes bisexuals get overlooked as being part of the community. So what makes a good bisexual ally? And ally is someone (regardless of sexual orientation) that will stand with us instead of against us and help the invisible become visible in the community. If someone is being biphobic (bisexuals don’t exist, bisexuals are greedy, bisexuals are indecisive, bisexuals are dirty), speak out. It definitely goes a long way. Don’t perpetuate the stereotypes, please. Don’t make assumptions about someone’s sexuality. Or if they use a certain term to describe themselves (bisexual/pansexual), acknowledge that. Be respectful of the way someone identifies. Use inclusive language. Gay is not an umbrella term for the LGBTQ+ community. For example, “gay marriage” is not including of bisexuals with same sex partners. How about just “marriage” or, if we have to define it, maybe “same sex marriage”. Don’t minimize our experience and our identity. I’ve often heard that bisexuality is just a stop on the way to coming out as gay. This attitude is harmful and invalidates a whole group of people. I’m personally left feeling that I’m not queer enough to be considered LGBTQ+. There is definitely a B in the acronym, but when I feel invalidated in my orientation, it might as well stand for Bees. Being an ally can help a group of people who are often overlooked and even forgotten about feel like they belong. Please be a good ally to bisexuals, the support is always welcome.

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Photos by Shandro Photo

The Outsider’s

Voice

Michael Green

I’m not from Edmonton. I moved here several years ago from a small town on the other side of the country. It was exhilarating to find in Edmonton the community that was lacking where I came from. A vibrant, diverse community that far too many LGBTQ Edmontonians take for granted.

Photos by Shandro Photo

Sure, it’s not perfect, but there is so much value there that it was bewildering to hear more complaints about our community than appreciation. Complaints born of valid issues, absolutely, and at their heart the complaints all stem from the same thing: exclusion. We fought so long for equality and somewhere along the way we became a house divided. We don’t support one another as much as we should, we don’t always listen or empathize. And those this outsider’s eyes, that’s a dangerous path when the pendulum is swinging precariously right in our province. We still face oppression from outside, we can’t afford to face it from within. So my challenge is this: this Pride, engage with someone who is unlike yourself. Learn about a perspective unlike your own, explore colors in our ubiquitous rainbow that you don’t identify with. Join a protest with Black Lives Matters and listen to what they have to say. Check out a drag show, even if it’s not your scene. Speak with a Gay Straight Alliance coordinator and find out more about the challenges and joy of their work making it safer for youth in schools. Go to a SAFQEY fundraiser and learn about their work with at-risk youth. Speak with an older member of our community and hear about our history. Instead of swiping left on someone who is poz, educate yourself on what that status means and the stigma with it. Pride is a celebration, but more than that it’s a recognition of battles won and a reminder of battles still to come. We do Pride a disservice when we don’t take the opportunity to connect, to learn and to come together. Take it from the outsider. 2017 OFFICIAL PRIDE PROGRAM

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The Here’s How You Can Support Us Voice “Stand Up Fight Back” (Pseudonym)

The term “accomplice” describes those who act in solidarity with Queer and Trans Indigenous, Black, and People of Colour in our struggles. Accomplice goes beyond “ally” in several respects. It challenges the cooptation of allyship by professional, non-profit careerists who exploit our struggles. It also denotes complicity, a deeper stake in the fight for liberation that requires taking risks with those with whom you are in solidarity. While allies often pull away when their respectability or privilege is threatened, accomplices stand with us to create radical change. There are some things that you, as a cishetero and/or white person, can do to support QTIBPOC. One of the easiest things you can do to support QTIBPOC is to put your resources at our disposal. Supporting racialized queer, trans, and two-spirit creatives, activists, youth, sex workers, parents, homeless people, migrants, students, disabled people, poor people, etc. is more than just sharing a facebook post or attending a parade; it means assessing your material resources and determining how you can best mobilize them. Redistributing your wealth and resources locally among your community and friends is an act of solidarity that you undertake so that you can continue to struggle together. It is also essential to assess and mobilize your non-material resources, including your privilege, in the service of QTIBPOC. What skills and access do you have, and how might they be useful? What knowledge do you have that you can share? Anything from knot-tying to résumé-writing to graphic design to alternative medicine and beyond could be skills that we could use, or that you could use to support QTIBPOC organizing (by designing posters for events, for example)! Again, it’s about offering your skills, knowledge, and time in acts of solidarity. Accomplices don’t shy away from taking risks. Sometimes these risks might be physical, but oftentimes they’re less-physical. Less-physical risk-taking – standing up for QTIBPOC – can sometimes feel like a threat to your very person: that is a sign that you are betraying your privilege. Betraying white cisheterosupremacy is risky

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business, but it’s important to recognize that QTIBPOC are already situated as threats to the state and the status quo: to be assimilated or eliminated. Defending, protecting, standing with, and supporting QTIBPOC liberation - being an accomplice - means becoming a threat as well. Do the dishes. This refers to accomplices taking on the grunt work of organizing. Accomplices should do the day-to-day essential and uncelebrated labour that ensures the success and sustainability of movements. This kind of solidarity can free up QTIBPOC to focus on more pressing things, alleviate additional work and life stress, reduce some of the harms of white supremacy and cisheterosupremacy, and can go a long way towards preventing burn out. We recognize that not everyone has the same privilege, abilities, access, and resources. Be self-reflexive about your own capacity and resources, and be reflexive to what QTIBPOC need from you. Solidarity is about supporting each other so we can work effectively together to dismantle this screwed up system! Photos by Shandro Photo

The Reject Homonationalis

Voice “Canadon’t 150” (Pseudonym)

Homonationalism refers the ways in which queer and trans people – predominantly white cis gays and lesbians – are encouraged to, and do accept, supporting roles in the same white cisheterosupremacist state that perpetrates violence on those poor, racialized, disabled, queer, trans, and two-spirit people it will not or cannot render tolerable. By broadening the liberal ideals of “tolerance” and “rights,” even in limited ways, to cover certain previously ostracized people – extending to them the privileges of inclusion as liberal democratic citizens – the state can double-down on continued/increased repression to those it labels Other. Certain LGB and (very few) trans bodies can be tolerated to reify a state that weaponizes this same tolerance against populations here and globally. Canada uses LGB inclusion as a yardstick by which to measure other nations’ and peoples’ progress towards Western standards of social and civil “development.” Those that are seen to not “include” LBG within a white Western liberal framework are figured as barbaric, primitive, and in need of intervention, no matter what the reality may be for those living there. This is an excuse that invisiblizes the autonomy and local organizing, struggles, and victories of LGBTQ2SIA folks. Homonationalism makes queer and trans people the new face of Western imperialism. Homonationalism naturalizes settler-colonialism. Settler homonationalism produces and privileges settler genders and sexualities to justify genocide against indigenous peoples. Indigenous genders and sexualities are framed as deviant, perverse, and contaminating. Traditional indigenous understandings of gender and sexuality, and indigenous people

whose genders and sexualities did/do not fit into colonial cishetero binaries were – and are – brutally attacked and forced into settler gender and sexual logics. Allegiance to the Canadian state produces and validates the violences of settler-homonationalism. The state also uses homonationalist inclusion to control LGBTQ2SIA people who aren’t “successful,” mainstream, assimilated, respectable, productive members of this capitalist society. Poor, disabled, mentally ill, chronically ill, formerly/ currently incarcerated, undocumented, and/or sex working QTIBPOC (and most us experience at least one of these realities) almost never have access to the resources (material and social) to achieve the respectability necessary for full incorporation into the state project. We can never be white enough, abled enough, rich enough, educated enough to rise above our inherent deviance. Homonationalism forges a homonormativity that mirrors and reinforces the status quo, rather than challenging underlying systems of oppression. Homonationalism will not save us. The state and Photo by Shandro Photo capitalism function through white supremacy, cisheterosupremacy, and other forms of oppression; this system will never do anything to undermine itself. The state is irredeemable. We are told to strive for “equality” with the same white cishetero able-bodied middle class male citizen whose identity and privilege is predicated on global capitalist exploitation, the destruction of the earth, and our own oppression. They tell us our only option is to join them, and that we should be grateful they are giving (some of us) the chance. Screw that! Together, we can dream, build new futures and ways of living, and being together that which doesn’t rely on violence and dispossession. 2017 OFFICIAL PRIDE PROGRAM

The NDP Caucus supports making life better for LGBTQ+ Albertans • Standing up for LGBTQ+ youth by creating safe schools and supporting GSAs/QSAs • Adding gender identity and gender expression to the Alberta Human Rights Act • Officially recognizing the Transgender Day of Remembrance at the Alberta Legislature for the first time AlbertaNDPcaucus.ca 50

ONE PRIDE. MANY VOICES. 2017

The Gay Ismaili

Voice

Gianmarco Visconti

My hope for all LGBTQ Muslims is that we are finally able to define for ourselves what our faith means to us. I imagine a future where we can exist without being made to feel that we have to choose between our Muslim identity and our LGBTQ identity. I look forward to a time where the price of community does not amount to the suppression of one identity or the other. Whether you are a practicing Muslim or a former-practicing Muslim, or somewhere in between, that is a decision that you deserve to make on your own terms. Islam is yours to identify with, yours to interpret, yours to (re) define â&#x20AC;&#x201D; no one has the right to give or refuse you your spiritual practice and heritage.

We exist and we have allies and, hopefully, one day we will have the resources to build our own safe spaces. In the mean time, I envision a future where that which makes us different both within the Muslim and the LGBTQ community is defended and celebrated because the strength and beauty we embody, as people inhabiting a delicate intersection of identity, is matchless. You are not alone.

I once let fears of social consequences rule my life, thinking I could not possibly navigate the world as both a gay man and a Muslim man simultaneously, because I was constantly told that these identifiers were inherently in conflict with each other. But I realize now it is not my purpose to bend myself in the hopes of fitting the image that other people see for me or what they think is possible for me to be; that is not our purpose.

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The Team Edmonton

Voice Team Edmonton

Team Edmonton is a volunteeroperated, non-profit society that promotes sports and recreational activities for the LGBTQ2+ community and its allies. Our primary goal is to foster an inclusive environment where participants can meet new friends as they enjoy fun and affordable activities. Whether you’re looking for an intense workout, a casual drop-in, or a calming activity, there is something for you! Our affiliate groups offer a diverse range of individual and team activities to appeal to everyone in our vibrant community. Team Edmonton

was formed in 2006 when a group of organizers responded to the growing demand for sports and recreational activities for LGBTQ2+ adults in Edmonton. Since then, our affiliate groups have expanded to include an assortment of activities, with new groups constantly budding. For a full catalogue of our activities, visit our website at teamedmonton.ca. Don’t see your favourite activity on the roster? Consider becoming an activity leader! Team Edmonton depends on enthusiastic volunteers who run their favourite activities. We’re happy to help you get started! Team Edmonton’s affiliate groups have a proud history of representing Edmonton in international LGBTQ2+ sports competitions such as Gay Games, Outgames, Western Cup, and the International Gay and Lesbian

Aquatics Championships, hosted right here in Edmonton last year. Various teams are gearing up to compete in Paris next year, and we know that they’ll do Edmonton proud! Team Edmonton also organizes social events that bring our diverse groups together. Every year, we host a mixer and silent auction where participants and interested newcomers can meet over a drink and compare stories. All proceeds from the silent auction go to operating expenses and to groups that support the LGBTQ2+ community. We also host a BBQ at the Edmonton Pride Run and Walk. In the meantime, come visit us at our Pride booth! We’re happy to chat with you and answer any questions you have!

Happy Pride! We hope you’ll come out and play!

Linda Duncan

Member of Parliament Edmonton Strathcona

www.LindaDuncanMP.ca www.Li ww w.Lin .Linda ndaDunc DuncanM ncanMP.ca MP ca LiindaD L LindaDuncanMP daDuncanM daDun D ncanMP MP P

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MARK HUGHES PHOTO

Proud to support Pride

The Chief’s Advisory Council — Sexual & Gender Minority Liaison Committee Voice Superintendent Brad Doucette, Edmonton Police Service

The Chief’s Community Advisory Council (CAC) was developed in 2004 to engage the Edmonton Police Service (EPS) and Edmontonians’ in a proactive dialogue centered on developing mutual trust, information sharing, and relationship building.

the way. One of the many projects arising out of this collaboration was the Diversity Positive Recruiting Initiative, which included direct feedback from all of the CLC’s about how best to attract their community members to a career in policing.

Since its inception, the CAC has been working proactively with diverse communities who are committed to working together, and with the police service, to foster a climate of safety, security, and mutual respect. The CAC was composed of eight different Community Liaison Committees (CLCs), which included:

All of these CAC/CLC initiatives have provided Edmonton’s multicultural and varied communities with opportunities for meaningful dialogue, awareness and partnership in community policing. As you are no doubt aware (unless you have been living in that bubble I referred to earlier) the issue of police participation in Pride events is a hotly debated topic across the entire country. Locally however, as a result of the strong relationships and the mutual trust that we have built together, the EPS is honoured to once again participate in the Edmonton Pride Festival.

• Aboriginal •

African

• Black • Chinese • Indo-Canadian • Jewish • Muslim •

Sexual Minorities

I was fortunate to be at the inaugural meeting of the CAC which kicked off with representatives from each of the committees introducing themselves to then Chief Boyd and each other and saying a few words about the issues facing their respective communities. The Sexual Minorities Liaison Committee (SMLC) was the last group to speak and the comments really underscored both the value and the need for this type of interaction. After speaking about some of the issues facing LGTBQ, the speaker closed by saying that the people that the SMLC represent come from all of the other community groups in the room.

It is through a direct result of these relationships that the EPS is recognized internationally as a leader in community policing. The EPS is currently looking for new members on all of the Community Liaison Committees and especially the Sexual Gender Minority Community Liaison Committee. If you would like an application to become a committee member please contact myself or one of our Community Operations Support Unit members: Chelsea Hawrelak or Constable Jacqui Buchanan. Happy Pride! Brad.doucette@edmontonpolice.ca Chelsea.Hawrelak@edmontonpolice.ca Jacqueline.Buchanan@edmontonpolice.ca Photos by Shandro Photo

Perhaps I was naïve or simply living in a bubble, but I had never thought of it that way before. Judging by the looks on some of the other committees faces, it was apparent that either they hadn’t either or perhaps it was simply something they didn’t talk about. What a great way to start a dialogue and to begin to learn about and from each other’s diverse communities. Over the last 13 years, we have continued to develop these relationships with our communities, building trust, respect, cooperation and most importantly police legitimacy along Photos by Shandro Photo

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