Two firsts are planned for Richmond this year to celebrate Pride Week – a progressive pride flag at city hall and a Pride Walk in Steveston.
This will be the first time a pride flag will fly at Richmond City Hall – from July 31 to Aug. 6 – and comes on the heels of city council changing its flag policy earlier this year.
Furthermore, Richmond-Steveston MLA Kelly Greene is planning to host a “Pride Walk” on July 29 along the Steveston boardwalk – also the first of its kind in Richmond - starting in front of her office at Imperial Landing.
“Throughout my time living in Richmond and being in elected office, I have heard from residents that Richmond lacks a sense of belonging for many queer folks and Richmond needs to do better in recognizing our local 2SLGBTQIA+ (Two Spirit, Lesbian, Gay Bisexual, Transgender, Queer, Intersex, Asexual) community, from visibility to consultations relating to policy planning,” Greene said in her press release announcing the walk.
The News reported last year how a drag queen story hour in Hamilton was disrupted by protesters, some with rainbow swastikas, but in the end, attendees and city staff encircled the performer to protect them.
The city is organizing various events during pride week including story times, workshops, fitness classes and an improv performance.
Highlights of Richmond’s Pride Week
Pride Author Panel
Monday, July 31, 7 to 8 p.m.
Richmond Public Library – Brighouse, 100-7700 Minoru Gate
Join the conversation with a panel of local authors discussing their personal and literary experiences as queer Asian writers in celebration of Richmond Pride Week. The featured panelists include Eddy Boudel Tan, Aaron Chan, and Tin Lorica. Open to adults 18+ years.
Rainbow Ride
Tuesday, Aug. 1, 6:45 to 7:30 p.m.
Minoru Centre for Active Living, 7191 Granville Ave.
Break out some rainbow workout gear and pedal with pride in celebration of inclusivity, equality and acceptance. Sweat, sprint and climb to a special Pride-inspired playlist and experience the positivity that happens when uniqueness and individuality are honoured. Open to adults and seniors.
Allyship Workshop
Thursday, Aug. 3, 4:30 to 6 p.m.
Cambie Community Centre, 12800 Cambie Rd.
Engage in an allyship education presentation accompanied by interactive activities, light refreshments and social connections through artistic expression. Open to 2SLGBTQI+ community members and allies ages 13+ years.
Hot Pot Talks: Queer Asian Storytelling
Friday, Aug. 4, 6 to 9 p.m.
Richmond Cultural Centre, 7700 Minoru Gate
Join Love Intersections co-artistic directors Jen Sungshine and David Ng for an interactive film screening and storytelling workshop on queer Asian futures. David and Jen will share their award-winning documentary film, “Yellow Peril: Queer Destiny” (2019), and the sequel, “Yellow Peril: Queer Futures” (2022), followed by an interactive storytelling workshop on filmmaking methodologies and community care. Open to adults and seniors.
Pride Swim
Saturday, Aug. 5, 9:30 to 11:30 a.m.
South Arm Outdoor Pool, 10100 South Arm Place
Celebrate Pride Week with a swim that celebrates inclusivity, equality and acceptance. Grab your swimsuit, bring your friends and loved ones, and join an unforgettable session of aquadance performances, energetic dancing, and a whole lot of pride! Open to all ages.
For a full list of Pride Week events and activities, click here.
