“Continuing the legacy of activists, trailblazers, and everyday individuals who risked everything to demand equality.”
“If I wait for someone else to validate my existence, it will mean that I’m shortchanging myself.”
- South African Artist & Activist, Zanele Muholi
Why is Pride so Important to us?
Pride embodies the celebration of diversity and the affirmation of 2SLGBTQIA+ identities, creating an inclusive environment where individuals can express themselves freely without fear of discrimination. Pride events and initiatives provide a unique opportunity to 2SLGBTQIA+ individuals to connect with their identity, fostering a sense of belonging and community.
Moreover, Pride serves as a powerful platform for visibility and advocacy, highlighting the specific challenges faced by 2SLGBTQIA+ individuals. Pride provides our community an opportunity to honor those who came before us—the activists, trailblazers, and everyday individuals who risked everything to demand equality.
Additionally, Pride encourages solidarity and support among diverse groups, building bridges between different communities. This solidarity is essential for creating a safe and welcoming space where everyone can find support, share their experiences, and build meaningful relationships.
Our Involvement
in Vancouver Pride
Vancouver Queer Irish (VQI) first joined the city's annual Pride Parade in 2021, marching with 50 members, and has since grown to 100 members proudly walking each year.
Our participation is made possible with the generous support of our friends at IRL, who sponsor our involvement in the parade.
Beyond the parade, VQI is deeply engaged in Pride Weekend celebrations, including our annual event at the Irish Consulate. Last year’s gathering featured a powerful speech by local drag icon, activist, and Canada’s Drag Race Season 5 star; Jaylene Tyme.
We also host Afterwerk, our signature Pride kickoff event on the Thursday of Pride Week. Over the past two years, Afterwerk has raised $7,000 for the Rainbow Refugee Circle of Hope, Safe Passage.
Our Pride 2025 Plans
Coming Soon!
Prideful Organizations We Love in Vancouver
Non-profit organization based in Vancouver, BC that works to improve queer, trans, and Two-Spirit lives
Dr. Peter Centre
“We are committed to ensuring that people with HIV, complex health and social needs are supported as experts in their health and well-being.”
Sher Vancouver
Sher Vancouver was founded in 2008 to provide arts and cultural, and social service programs and services to queer South Asians and their friends, families, and allies in Metro Vancouver.
Promotes safe, equitable migration and communities of belonging for people fleeing persecution based on their sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, or HIV status.
“We use film and facilitated group discussion to engage youth in building safer, more inclusive communities.”
VQFF
The Vancouver Queer Film Festival aims to illuminate, celebrate, and transform 2SLGBTQIA+ lives through film, education, and dialogue.
Providing free, nutritious meals to those living with HIV in Metro Vancouver to enhance their quality of life and health and reduce barriers to food security
Raincity Housing
For over 40 years, RainCity Housing creates and manages housing and support programs that build relationships, strengthen communities, and support people facing homelessness, mental health challenges, trauma, and substance use in Vancouver.
UNYA
The Urban Native Youth Association strives to support Indigenous youth by providing a diverse continuum of advocacy, preventative and support services that respond to their immediate and long-term needs.