An inclusive community is one characterized by diversity, respect, and belonging. Pride Month in June is a celebration of 2SLGBTQIA+ identities and a reminder that our communities are stronger when we come together and recognize the contributions of everyone. We also see this as a time to acknowledge the diverse range of experiences that people with disabilities bring to the LGBTQ+ community and vice versa. At the intersection of these identities, people still face unique challenges. However, more and more, these rarely-heard voices are finding new audiences. We featured a few people sharing their stories on our blog last year: Queer and Disabled Artists and Activists to Know
As we celebrate Pride in June and beyond, it’s important to make these spaces accessible and inclusive. Autism BC has a great article on Creating Inclusive Queer Spaces where autistic people can be authentically themselves. Taking steps to ensure neurodivergent folks and people with disabilities can fully participate is essential. We bring our whole selves to any space we’re in, whether it’s a large community event or small gathering.
posAbilities community—How are you celebrating during Pride? What does Pride mean to you? We would love to see what you’re up to. We’ve included a few gatherings below, and there are many more happening across the province this summer. Share your photos with us on social media using the hashtag #posAPride.
Queer Peer Support
Looking for a place to hang out with peers, make friends, or find support?
Qmunity—BC’s queer, trans, and Two-Spirit resource centre—hosts a number of peer groups. Among these is Autistic Queer Peers. The group meets on Zoom on the 2nd Wednesday of every month. It’s a safe space for friendly discussions in a low-social-pressure environment.
Chronically Queer is a bi-monthly Zoom event for LGBTQ+ people who are neurodivergent, chronically ill, and/or disabled. It’s a peer-facilitated support group. People can share personal stories/feelings, listen as others share their experiences, and learn coping strategies in an encouraging and caring environment without fear of judgment.
Real Talk hosts conversations about dating, love, relationships and sex for adults with cognitive disabilities. Each month, they host Zoom hangouts facilitated by a certified sexual health educator. Sometimes they host special events aimed at people under the LGBTQ umbrella. They also have a series of videos all about sexual orientation and gender identity.
Real Talk is hosting an LGBTQ in-person hangout on Tuesday, July 26 from 1 -3pm. Join them in New Westminster, enjoy some casual snacks, watch some Real Talk videos, and participate in the conversation.
Pride Celebrations
Celebrate Pride in your community! Many Pride events take place in June, but there are also celebrations throughout July and August. Enjoy outdoor gatherings like parades and festivals, with entertainment including drag performances, live music, storytelling events and more. Check out the list below for a selection of events in communities in Greater Vancouver and beyond.
Abbotsford
Fraser Valley Pride Celebration: July 16, 2022, 12:00 pm to 8:00 pm, Fraser River Heritage Park
Burnaby
Burnaby Pride: July 23, 2022, 12:00 pm to 5:00 pm, Civic Square
Coquitlam
Pride in PoCo: July 23, 2022, 11:00 am to 6:00 pm, Location (TBA)
Kamloops
Kamloops Pride: June Pride events and ongoing monthly events
Maple Ridge
PLEA’S Pride Picnic in the Park: July 16, 2022, 11:00 am to 3:00 pm, Memorial Peace Park
New West
Street Festival: August 13, 2022, 3:00 pm to 8:00 pm, Columbia Street
Squamish
Pride Squamish: Numerous Events taking place all month
Wednesday Socials: June 15, 2022, 7:00 pm to 9:00 pm, The Commons
Drag Queen Story Hour: June 18, 2022, 1:00 pm to 2:00 pm
Surrey
Surrey Pride Festival 2022: June 25, 2022, 4:00 pm to 9:00 pm, Central City Plaza
White Rock Pride Family Day: July 23, 2022, 11:00 am to 5:00 pm, Mirimar Plaza
Victoria
Pride Festival in the Park: June 26, 2022, 10:00 am to 8:00 pm, Macdonald Park
Victoria Pride Parade: June 26, 2022, 11:00 am, Johnston Street Bridge
Vancouver
Vancouver Pride Parade: July 31, 2022, 12:00 pm to 3:00 pm, Robson, Denman St, Beach Avenue
For more Pride events across BC, check out What’s On Queer BC.
