2022 Van Pride Magazine

Presenting Sponsor:

#TogetherAgain 2022

Inside: • Plan Your Pride • Pride Event Schedule • Festival Maps • Pride Lounges • Poetry • Recipes • Meet the Grand Marshals • and More!

OFFICIAL GUIDE TO VANCOUVER PRIDE Naomi Grace photo

Together Again 2022

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BE LOUD. BE PROUD.

Pride is a time to celebrate hard won victories and remain vigilant for the future. ~ Hedy Hon. Hedy Fry, P.C., M.P

#112 - 1030 Denman St, Vancouver, BC V6G 2M6

604.666.0135 • hedy.fry@parl.gc.ca • HedyFry.com 2

Together Again 2022

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Together Again 2022

2SLGBTQAI+ people belong in our pools, fitness centres and community programs.

Meet our new Queer inclusion team at the Sunset Beach festival or online. vancouver.ca/park-board-pride queerinclusion@vancouver.ca 2STGD@vancouver.ca

Contents Indigenous Welcomes.................08

#TogetherAgain 2022

Message from the Board of Directors........................10

Plan your Pride with our event listings:

Message from the Mayor.............10

2022 VanPride Magazine #TogetherAgain

Meet Your Grand Marshals ���������12

Vancouver Pride 2022 QTBIPOC Takeovers................15

What Does Together Again Really Mean?................................14

Pride event schedule...............28

Cultivating Queer Sanctuary Through Trans Cyber Utopia.......18

Pride Lounges.........................30

Design, Layout & Sales Support: Tara Rafiq

Sunset Beach Festival map....32

Cover photo: Naomi Grace

Harm Reduction...........................26 I Dream of Bliss............................36 The Importance of Sober Spaces �����������������������������������������40 Liberation Libations.....................42

Graphics and Illustrations: Seb Black, Nadine Hajjaj, and Deon Feng

Accesibility info.......................34

#TogetherAgain theme art: Nadine Hajjaj

Community event listings.......56 Precious Steps ����������������������������50 Anxious Bottle Cliff ���������������������52

Queer Joy in Books for Kids and Teens.....................................46

Miss Me, Please ��������������������������52 Pride Cause Campaigns �������������54

Shared Breath ������������������������������48

Our Partners.................................62

Editor's letter

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Publisher: Gail Nugent

Pride Parade map....................33

Rainbow Crowd-Pleasers.............44

gain carries with it a sense of repetition.

Once more, a return, a reiteration of a time before.

What does it mean to be Together Again when we don’t have an again to return to, when we have been so profoundly altered by the experience of the pandemic that there can be no return to The Times Before?

And Is The Time Before really a place we wish to return to? What does it mean to be Together Again, when not all of us survived to come together? How do we begin to create something better, so that when we come Together Again we do not repeat, but revitalize and renew? How can we come together in a way that satiates the desire for connection while protecting those who remain vulnerable?

Allison (p. 14) shares What Together Again Really Means to her, while Marion (pg. 50) asks “who will keep us safe?” in Precious Steps. Jill (p. 48) exults in the communion of art, thrilling in the return to in-person events in Shared Breath, while Alexis (p. 40) feels trepidation at re-entering the substance heavy queer scene in The Importance of Sober Spaces for Queers.

Editor: Kaschelle Thiessen

Angelic (p. 18) takes us on a journey of self-discovery in co-creating online spaces to the joys and challenges of organizing in-person events in a not-yet-normal landscape in Cultivating Queer Utopia. Providing recipes for getting together with friends, Naomi (p. 42) honours Marsha P. Johnson with the alcohol-free Pay it No Mind sparkler in Liberation Libations while Alexandra (p. 44) offers up Rainbow Crowd-Pleasers for your next queer backyard BBQ. Many of us have spent the last two years in reflection, the pandemic-induced shake up leading to spikes in divorce and breakups, geographical relocations, and a resurgence in civil rights and labour movements.

The 2022 Van Pride Magazine features work from 10 brilliant queer and trans authors, poets, and chefs who all grapple with the question “What does it mean to be Together Again?” in a world changed by the events of the early 2020s. As we head into Pride and begin to come together, some of us online, others in outdoor venues and indoor warehouses, I hope that you have found something within the covers of this magazine that makes you excited for what can come next, if we choose to move together.

—Kaschelle Thiessen, Editor

Photography: Lung Liu Sales: Kristina Mameli, Alison Clay and Glenn Stensrud Published by Glacier Media Group

ABOUT OUR COVER MODEL KARMELLA BARR (they/them) is a drag performer that has been performing in the city for seven years and counting. Karmella is where sweetness and glamour collide. From Miss Congeniality (2016) to Miss Cobalt 6 (2017) they are known for their charm and emoting on the stage.

Karmella is Vancouver’s Chocolate Queen and is super excited to be an imperial Crown Princex for the 50th reign of the Dogwood Monarchist Society.

Karmella also has a variety of allyship resources for many different Social Justice movements on their Instagram @karmellabarr: please explore the linktr.ee link and story highlights for more information.

Karmella hopes to see you around the city and is wishing you a happy and safe Pride!

Karmella is wearing the Love Black People t-shirt from melaninrisingapparel.com

Together Again 2022

LOVE is LOVE

PETER JULIAN

MP New Westminster—Burnaby MP Port Moody—Coquitlam

BONITA ZARRILLO JAGMEET SINGH JENNY KWAN MP Burnaby South

MP Vancouver East

DON DAVIES

110-888 Carnarvon Street, New Westminster, V3M 0C6 (604) 775-5707 Peter.Julian.c1@parl.gc.ca

1116 Austin Avenue, Coquitlam, BC. V3K 3P5 (604) 664-9229 Bonita.Zarrillo@parl.gc.ca

4940 Kingsway, Burnaby, BC V5H 2E2 (604) 291-8863 Jagmeet.Singh@parl.gc.ca

2572 East Hastings, Vancouver, BC V5K 1Z3 (604) 775-5800 Jenny.Kwan@parl.gc.ca

2951 Kingsway, Vancouver, BC V5R 5J4 (604) 775-6263 Don.Davies@parl.gc.ca

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MP Vancouver Kingsway

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Indigenous Welcomes

si:y̓em̓ nə si:yéyə

Nch’ú7mut

ʔəm̓i ce:p kʷətxʷiləm ʔi ʔə tə n̓a šxʷməθkʷəy̓əmaʔɬ təməxʷ, tə šxʷʔam̓əts tə shən̓q̓əmin̓əm̓qən ʔiʔ ƛ̓əw tə šxʷʔaləqʷaʔ tə sqʷχʷaməx ʔiʔ tə səl̕ilwətaʔɬ məsteyəxʷ

Ta Néwyap, Síiyam Ta Néwyap Síiyam (To Friends and Respected Leaders)

sc̓ec̓ən̓ ct ʔəw c̓iyətalə

Chet wa ḵ’ayáchtni-túmiyap

Honoured friends and relatives:

(We raise our hands, in thanks to you all)

Welcome to the ancestral and unceded territory of the hən̓q̓əmin̓əm̓-speaking Musqueam peoples, which we share with our relatives from Squamish and Tsleil-Waututh. We are overjoyed to finally be able to join you in-person again for the 44th Annual Vancouver Pride Parade. Together with the Vancouver Pride Society, we take this weekend to celebrate and honour our respected two-spirit community members and LGBTQIA+ friends and allies.

Yewan ha7lh sḵwálwen-chet kwis tl’a7áshen-chet

hay ce:p q̓ə to the volunteers, staff, and many others for their hard work to organize this important weekend of celebrating pride and love throughout our territory.

(We are really happy to celebrate with you all)

Nch’ú7mut kwi sḵwálwen-chet (All of our hearts are one) Together Again On behalf of the Squamish Nation Community, we unite with all two spirited people to embrace and celebrate Vancouver Pride 2022!

Nch’ú7mut-One Love Squamish Nation

xʷməθkʷəy̓əm Musqueam Indian Band

Welcome to the unceded traditional territory of the Tsleil-Waututh, Musqueam, and Squamish people for Vancouver Pride 2022. We have good feelings in our hearts to join and uplift our two-spirited and LGBTQIA+ friends and relatives.

Our Tsleil-Waututh Nation is happy to participate and celebrate with the City of Vancouver and the Pride community after not being able to come together the last few years.

We join our relatives in raising our hands with gratitude to all those involved in making this event possible. We hope you enjoy your visit on our beautiful shared territory.

Chief Jen Thomas, Tsleil-Waututh Nation

The operations of the Vancouver Pride Society take place on the occupied, ancestral, and unceeded territories of the /Selilwitulh (Tsleil-Waututh).

(Musqueam), Skwxwú7mesh (Squamish), and We encourage settlers to think about the lands you are living and celebrating on during Pride.

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Together Again 2022

BREACHING WITH

CELEBRATING PRIDE Supporting positive progress towards a better future for all.

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A message from the

Board of Directors

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t is a fact that human beings are inherently social; we are biologically, physically, cognitively, and spiritually wired to belong and seek connections. At Vancouver Pride Society, we believe that meaningful connections with ourselves and within the chosen family of our amazing and diverse 2SLGBTQAI+ communites here in Vancouver are very important.

It has been far too long since we gathered together in community here on the beautiful, traditional, and stolen lands of the Musqueam, Squamish, and Tsleil-Waututh nations. Whether to grieve, celebrate, go through challenges together, share/ receive knowledge from one another, and stand in our truth while cultivating creativity along the way.

The board and staff of Vancouver Pride are excited to curate experiences that are more equitable, inclusive, and innovative than ever before, incorporating new

VPS Board of Directors. Back row L to R: Masa Kateb, Claire Ens, John Whistler.

Front Row L to R: Chris Kennedy, Tabitha McIntyre, Michelle Fortin.

Missing: Abdollah Fooladkhai, Orene Askew ways to make our events accessible for more folks in the community. Here on the gorgeous shores of the Salish Sea, we welcome you to share in the festivities as we embrace our 2022 theme: “Together

Again.” We invite you to be present with us, take up space, lift your voices­—in celebration, and in protest­—and to lean into what is sure to be the best Pride Season to date! ●

A message from

the Mayor

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n behalf of the residents of Vancouver, City of Vancouver staff, and my colleagues on City Council, I want to extend my heartfelt greetings to the entire Pride Community as we come #TogetherAgain to celebrate Pride 2022 in Vancouver!

The past two years have been incredibly challenging for everyone in our city, but it has been especially difficult for members of our community who have traditionally faced marginalization and exclusion.

We like to think of ourselves as an inclusive city, where all residents have the right to live free from discrimination of their sexual orientation or gender identity. But we know that too often this isn’t the case.

When the pandemic forced us all to retreat inside and online, it slowly made space for the darker parts of our world.

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Violence and hatred towards the queer community, towards people of colour, towards women, all rose significantly.

People who had been used to feeling safe suddenly felt less so.

I want you to know that I care about this deeply. Everyone deserves to feel safe in our city. And a big part of feeling safe is having a voice. That is why this year’s unprecedented focus on QTBIPOC organizations across Vancouver is so important.

Lifting up the voices of racialized people is a critical step in building a Vancouver that is more equitable and just.

At the City of Vancouver, we have worked hard to recenter our work around equity and justice. For example, recognizing that 2SLGBTQ+ community members are twice as likely to experience severe poverty and housing precarity, we announced the purchase of Ross-Aoki House in order to create B.C. 's first supportive housing project for trans- and gender-diverse people.

This new investment and many others that support the queer community are vital. Not just because they serve people in need, but also because they are tangible symbols of how taking up space – real physical space – matters. And that’s why I’m so grateful that Pride is back, live and on our streets. It is a physical reminder of the path we have walked, the progress made, and the work still left to do.

But most importantly, it is a loud, colourful, and unapologetic rebuke of racism, misogyny, homophobia, biphobia, and transphobia. It is an antidote against hate.

It is love.

To each and every person who helped get us here, thank you for helping build a Vancouver for all.

Love,

Mayor Kennedy Stewart Together Again 2022

2022 ER SING DJ & Y SAND AL RV DUPEmore &

FRIDAY JULY 29

Chicks Ahoy! Boat Cruise

Magic Charm-Magic Yacht Charters 7pm - 11pm

SUNDAY JULY 31

Chicas | Outdoor Party

Sheraton Wall Centre Hotel 4pm - 9pm

Hershe | Pride Closing Party Red Room 9pm - 2am

TIX: FLYGIRLPRODUCTIONS.COM

Celebrate

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Meet the 2022 Grand Marshals N ominated by the community, Pride Parade Grand Marshals are individuals or organizations who have worked tirelessly to create positive differences for 2SLGBTQAI+ communities. In 2022, we are proud to celebrate the accomplishments of Annie Ohana, Dogwood Monarchist Society represented

by Empress Fancy Pants and Victor the Victorious, and Tiyáltelut Kristen Rivers.

ANNIE OHANA Annie Ohana is a cis pansexual educator and community activist whose academic and organizing background in anti-oppression work has always placed 2SLGBTQAI+ issues at the forefront. Annie Ohana brings this lens to her work, whether it be creating safe spaces for staff and students in her work as a public school educator and union representative, volunteering at grassroots queer events, or developing curriculum. Annie never separates anti-racism, anti-ablesim, anti-classism, and anti-colonial work when advocating for queer rights and liberation, reminding us that decolonizing and creating just worlds requires transforming settler-colonial systems.

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DOGWOOD MONARCHIST SOCIETY

Dogwood Monarchist Society is represented in 2022 by Empress Fancy Pants and Victor the Victorious, 50th Elected Emperor and Empress of Vancouver. Founded in 1971 by Her Imperial Sovereign Majesty ted northe the Empress of Canada, the Dogwood Monarchist Society celebrates 50 years of noble deeds and dedicated community service by 90 Monarchs, elected by the community. Learn more at impcourt.org Empress Fancy Pants embraces JOYus community service and sacred activism through her work as a Sister of Perpetual Indulgence, and as Ms. Gay Vancouver 40. Known for her unique aesthetic, she brings a refreshing take on drag and fundraising, raising money for HIV/AIDS related events in Thailand, Australia, and across the USA. As a co-host and reporter for Outlook TV, she shares her Asian heritage while shining a light on queer Canadians.

Victor the Victorious is a lifelong resident of the West End with a passion for community service. Victor has spent his life helping others, fundraising, and creating awareness for non-profits. As a healthcare worker at St. Paul’s Hospi-

tal-Providence Healthcare, and recently admitted Sister of Perpetual Indulgence, Victor has enjoyed introducing Sister Vicky to the hospital where she spreads joy and merriment to patients and staff.

TIYÁLTELUT KRISTEN RIVERS Tiyáltelut Kristen Rivers is a proud queer Indigenous woman of Squamish and Kwakwaka'wakw descent with extensive governance experience and a deep lived commitment to reconciliation and advancing social and economic justice.

In addition to over a decade of experience on numerous governance boards, Kristen has recently served three years as elected Co-Chair of the Squamish Nation Council, and Deputy Chair of the Nation’s Finance and Audit Committee. Kristen is proud to have driven the Squamish Nation's work in creating a first-of-its-kind in BC rental assistance program, and in pursuing and implementing the Living Wage for Families certification. ●

Together Again 2022

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What does Together

Again really mean?

Vancouver Pride is back because you willed it, and our staff have answered the call. Everyone here did their work, often short staffed, and somehow found pockets of energy and determination to help the person most overwhelmed by what was on their plate. Pride would not have happened this year without their unbelievable heart and grit. This year, the staff chose one of our newest team members, Operations Director Allison Dunne, to write our welcome message.

Her story is hers. We all endorse her message.

—The Vancouver Pride Staff Team Interim Executive Director: Lee Keple Operations Director: Allison Dunne Events Manager: Madison Holding Exhibitor Services Coordinator: Josephine Gray Communications Coordinator: Ivy Edad Talent Coordinator: Jade Weekes Partnership Coordinator: Glenn Stensrud Community Partnership Coordinator: Fanny Kearse Marketing/PR Coordinator: Megan Schrader Accessibility Coordinator: Divya Nanray Communications Intern: Bakhtiar Yaquba Box Office Coordinator: Marium Zaki Volunteer Coordinator: Maiya Dexel Events Coordinator: Jessana Akehurst Events Coordinator: Jay Legaspi Fulfilment Coordinator: Andra McKay Administrative Support: Katie King

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Vancouver Pride Society staff

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oining the team at Pride was a methodical decision based on the voices from the connections I have made in the Vancouver queer community. I’ve spent many years implementing anti-oppression ideals, and as a disrupter, this work has been vilified until recent years. As a Black, Arab queer woman, I saw a significant opportunity to help reconnect QTBIPOC folks and Pride in the most equitable way possible. As our conversations around social justice diversify, more organisations are recognizing the structural changes needed to operate inclusively.

Being amongst deep emotional conversations regarding intersections, representation, equity, and the pandemic has inspired me to do more with my background in inclusivity. I feel the intentional uplifting of each other, how much we rely on each other for survival, and the vibrance and responsibility of

chosen family.

As the new Director of Operations at VPS, we have access to the resources necessary for equitable impact for people who have been left behind by Pride.

Marginalised groups are disproportionately affected by global crises, like the COVID-19 pandemic we are still enduring, and Pride organizations are uniquely positioned to help the community heal and recover.

Over the past several years, VPS has taken steps to address the harms caused by ignoring the concerns, voices, and talents of marginalized members of our communities. Informed by the voices of hundreds of community members who participated in community consultations, these changes seek to address the ongoing mistrust and harm caused by VPS and associated organizations.

We recognize the importance of lived experience in providing insights,

Together Again 2022

Vancouver Pride 2022 theme: Together Again Nadine Hajjaj illustration

VPS Commitments:

• No police, corrections, or military in Pride • Designated funding for community organizers • Expanding accessibility services, including creating an accessibility coordinator position • Planning events to include folks from more of the nooks and crannies of the community • Requiring political parties to march together as one group • Creating a culture that encourages those who have historically been left out by Pride to join as staff, volunteers, board members, talent, and event attendees • A total QTBIPOC takeover of the 2022 Sunset Beach Festival

solutions, and compassion in decision making. The incredible talent of our team has helped us learn and grow as an organization, and as human beings. As we come #TogetherAgain, attendees will experience the results of our approach which prioritizes radical accountability, transparency, collaboration, healing, protest, and celebration.

—Allison Dunne

Together Again 2022

Van Pride 2022

QTBIPOC Takeovers New in 2022, our stages at Vancouver Pride are curated by esteemed community partners who have filled our lineups with QTBIPOC brilliance.

SUNSET BEACH FESTIVAL July 31 • 11 a.m.-6 p.m. • Sunset Beach Park, 1204 Beach Ave. • All Ages ASL at Main Stage and Community Stage

TD Main Stage by Hotlatch

by three bedroom DJs who began hosting Zoom parties during the pandemic, Normie Corporation threw online events to keep the community together when we were required to be apart. As the world opened up, we’ve expanded to throw events in real life too. ig @normiecorp fb @normiecorp

Community Stage by Ricecake

See page 28 to get the details for partnered events like Hot Fruit Cool Water (July 24) by MangoSweet and Posh Ball (July 29) by Van Vogue Jam. We are so proud to be supporting this celebration of QTBIPOC talent, history and culture which epitomizes the power and resilience of our community.

Curated by Hotlatch, a melding of Indigenous cultures with 2SLGBTQAI+ identities for expressions of Indigenous Queerness in the unceded territory of the Musqueam, Squamish, and Tsleil-waututh Peoples. ig @hotlatch

Taken over by Ricecake, Vancouver’s premier queer Asian event created for and by the queer Asian community.

Currently the only event of its kind in British Columbia, Ricecake has quickly become one of the local 2SLGBTQAI+ community’s favourite events for showcasing DJs and Arts entertainers. ig @ ricecakeyvr fb @ricecakeyvr

Stoli Stage by Normie Corporation 19+ Zone Beer Garden Programmed by Normie Corporation, born out of reminiscing about days and nights dancing with friends. Founded

See page 30 to learn about incredible takeovers by numerous community partners, like Afroqueer and Level Up at our Vizzy Forest Lounge, eclectic and diverse programming at the Pride Rainbow Lounge on Granville Island, and more! ●

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A

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SKILLED ARTISTS AND QUALITY PRODUCTS

When you choose a tattoo or a piercing, your body becomes a canvas that reflects your unique personality, your values, and your life experiences. We know that you’re placing a great deal of trust in your tattooist or piercer, and we respond to that trust by devoting all the necessary time, attention, and care to each client. Our professional artists have a deep knowledge of their trade—they will bring your vision to life.

Store manager Adam Stephenson ensures that SOH meets the highest standards of quality and safety. You can expect to see high-end jewelry and clean, well-maintained equipment when you walk

through the door. SOH’s skilled artists and rigorous sterilization procedures will assure customers they’re in good hands.

WELCOME TO THE FAMILY!

When you enter the shop, you’ll notice not only the bright aesthetic and clean lines, but the atmosphere of warmth and inclusion. The artistic team at SOH values quality over quantity; they slow down and take time with each client, from the first introduction until the new work of art is complete and healed.

They also support one another. The original artists, Mexican couple Eduardo and Claudia, are the heart of SOH. As a husband-wife team, they’ve cultivated a sense of family among their fellow SOH artists as well as their customers.

A PERSONALIZED, INTIMATE EXPERIENCE

Claudia (@amor.inks) describes the pain of leaving friends and family back in Mexico, but also the joy of finding a new family at SOH. “This place is different from other tattoo shops,” she says. “Here is something more than work. All my clients love the vibe, and they feel safe with us. We respect people and we give our clients the best experience ever.” Eduardo (@alcantar.tattoo) agrees, and emphasizes that the unique skills of each artist means that clients can

find someone at SOH who is a perfect fit for their needs. We tailor your experience to your preferences.

If you’re interested in booking your next tattoo or piercing at SOH, you can contact Adam by email at hello@sohtattoo.com or telephone at 604-336-9177. You can also reach out directly to the artist you prefer, using the contact information on our website: sohtattoo.com/artists. We look forward to welcoming you!

SLEIGHT OF HAND TATTOO & PIERCING 1068 Granville Street, Vancouver • 605-336-9177 • @soh_vancouver 16

Together Again 2022

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Cultivating queer sanctuary through trans cyber utopia

I

by Angelic Goldsky

first discovered my queerness throwing poetry and drag basement parties with my friends. We accidentally started introducing drag, discovering the possibilities of diverse pronouns, changing our names, and falling in love with each other. We had cultivated a sanctuary of queer possibility.

We did this all through partying, sharing our art, and dancing in our falling apart, old, moldy, and yet perfect basement suite.

Right as the pandemic started in 2020, that basement burned down to the ground. In a freak accident, all of our memories, the sanctuary of community, and this physical hub where we had come to discover who we were—literally in flames and ashes— erupted. Vanished. Poof.

I guess I’m supposed to say something about phoenixes and the ways we rise… well, not quite. The pandemic had hit and so much of my queerness and transness was used to the nurturing of in-person queer relation. We were left without a home, and with restrictions on gathering. Life coach, poet, and energy worker, Genique Baker (@Intention.Is.Everything) calls the queer yearning for being together, “the need for the medicine of queer in person connection.” This was extinguished from us. The pandemic replaced partying with zoom, authentic conversation with

Ocean (@shagor.photo) photos

social media, and love poetry recitals with iPhone voice notes.

The first zoom event I put on was a graduation party where I had 100+ folks who would frequent our basement now on zoom. We were coming together to share poems, and celebrate our queer journey and graduation virtually. It was a different energy, but still we were together. We were OK. Perhaps?

For two years, we struggled, imagined, and believed something else could be possible.

I began to understand there is something inherently life-affirming about seeing queerness reflected back to me. I thought, if we can’t gather in person, let’s be innovative. Myself and a handful of people began the Transgender Expressions Haven—a cyber exploration of trans art, virtual art gallery, and performance venue. Here two folks, Sol Cabini and Grimm (Sam Her-

le), brought together the concept of Queer Digital Intimacy; a sanctuary of transgender media in a 360 virtual exhibition. We imagined what a trans art virtual gallery would look like, something that we had never seen before.

Instead of white walls and basic labels, we wanted to envision how tall the walls could stretch, and how we could challenge the culture of preservation and mobility in space. People could walk through walls in the gallery. People could be immersed in the impossibility of their own being.

We thought: if all we have is the virtual, may it continue to be a sanctuary for our transness.

As the pandemic progressed, there was a rise of people claiming their non-binary, trans, and gender non-conforming power.

Perhaps the time to isolate and reflect without the need to translate or justify ourselves in public brought us there.

People come out in more elaborate costumes. People show up earlier, people dance harder, people stay longer. People are really present now.

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Together Again 2022

It definitely feeds my soul to be in a room with other queers, and it’s been so euphoric to unite around music, dancing, creative expression, joy, silliness.

Transgender Expressions Haven, gallery designed by Grimm Now there are more folks claiming the “T” label in Canada and the US than ever before. One of Haven’s featured artists, Alex Masse, describes that through online co-creation then in-person community, they found the truth of their gender identity.

For some folks, queer and trans online realms were a safe haven to explore their gender identity, reconsider their gender expression, understand how they relate to others, and discover the kinds of relationships they want. In solitude and yet through connectivity, a new sense of self was birthed.

Ky, a trans woman, poet, musician, and trans inclusion advocate, spoke of how “pre-pandemic [her] queerness was only conceptual.” Many people I spoke to in writing this article resonated with discovering their queerness, hibernating in it, and integrating quietly within it, imagining what it could be as they isolated. Once restrictions were lifted they were ready to launch publicly. Ky adds, “Queer partying is what gave [her queerness] material form.”

The material rebuilding of our selves called for bigger numbers attending queer parties. Suddenly, the support for queer sanctuary grew. Shanique Kelly, producer of LEVEL UP, a QTBIPOC party, found that, “the support for queer events has changed a lot. Before COVID, we didn’t do so many pre-sale tickets and now events are selling out faster and faster.”

Shanique explains her hypothesis saying, “maybe we realized how much we missed being in these queer community spaces. Maybe this is the Renaissance era—going from nothing and now people are more excited. Maybe before some people took [queer gathering] for granted, how special it was to be physically together in spaces... and now people are louder and Together Again 2022

more grateful.”

The New York queer club House of Yes’s co-founder Anya reflects, “I see an exuberance in people that I didn’t see before. I think the enthusiasm and the commitment of the audience is palpable. People come out in more elaborate costumes. People show up earlier, people dance harder, people stay longer. People are really present now."

People want to feel it all.

For queer and trans people, when so much of our love, romance, and grief is hidden in closets, we come to life in this ability to finally embrace our life together.

We take that love with us to cyber space— and now to Eastside Studios.

Nhylar, an event producer and queer community arts builder, describes: “In the pandemic realm, queerness started to feel like an intangible feeling. I felt its absence more than its presence. Living thousands of KMs away from my partner at the time, I found myself developing a serious case of skin hunger. Everything felt distant. I felt deprived of queer community and art show, my main source of euphoria in a physical environment!”

Nhylar explains that they wanted to re-produce that euphoric feeling, “of being around other queer creatives and friends and feel moved by their art.”

In October 2020, they birthed Queer Art Exchange: a virtual community for queer artists and art lovers to gather and share their art from across the globe. Their first show had over 20+ artists from India, Germany, U.K., US, and Canada. During the event, “A nonbinary poet from India shared a sapphic poem softly so their parents (who they weren’t out to) in the other room couldn’t hear.”

After curating and hosting countless virtual shows, it was time for Nhylar to

move back to in person in March 2022.“ I was nervous, but when the room was filled with QTBIPOC folks it felt like I had never felt more present. We were ready to fill our cups and share space with fellow queers again. Heck we were hungry for it.”

Nhylar describes the “sensory overload” of the colors, textures, and soul-affirming energy of being together in person again.

Reflecting with love that when organizing 2SLGBTQAI+ events in Vancouver, they are, “often reminded of wildlife... we’re all beautifully honing our expression, questioning our identities, and yet co-existing and gathering to become spectators of queer art together. Like we’re soaking each other’s energies and stroking each other’s souls.”

For many 2SLGBTQAI+ communities, spaces to gather serve not only as escape from daily microaggressions and oppression, but as spaces to recall your own worth and value. “It has been amazing to feel more connected to a larger queer/ Continued next page

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trans community and to remember that you’re not the only one going about the world every day as a queer person,” Tough Sell, a queer and trans sound artist, musician, and performer adds.

For Tough Sell, the return to in-person gathering comes with navigating the complexities of access to the space. “It definitely feeds my soul to be in a room with other queers, and it’s been so euphoric to unite around music, dancing, creative expression, joy, silliness,” they explain.

“But it’s also complicated cause hearing a lot of queer disabled folks discussing how exclusive so many of these events are when it comes to different peoples’ immu-

nocompromised status... so it’s unclear for me... I do wish that these events could be more inclusive of disabled folks.”

As an event organizer, I have felt the pull, pain, and push of navigating what it means to be producing during a global pandemic. People feel triggered by touching, overwhelmed by crowds, and anxious about being in spaces together again.

Coral Santa, an arts event producer, says the hyper-fixation on sex, physical intimacy, lust, and flirting within queer spaces is also uncomfortable. “As an ace person, I find myself feeling a little overwhelmed with the current queer renaissance, in the sense that a lot of the spaces currently catering to the queer community are focused on sex and sexuality (much needed) but I find myself looking for a space where I can share a queer mindset without sex being at the forefront. I think after all the time in isolation, I find it all a little daunting.”

Among the varied feelings we have about gathering, not gathering, and re-meeting each other, it seems the moment we are in has called us forth—and back—to teach others as we renegotiate how we feel, dance, mourn, practice, sob,

and gift each other presence.

Perhaps cultivating community virtually sets us up to come back together in a way that values authenticity, imagination, and a healing justice beyond binaries and beyond where we started. Now we know what we are defending, what we could lose, and what future we want to create and protect. ●

ANGELIC GOLDSKY [t(he?)y] is a poet and transgender community arts lover. They are the Poet in Residence at the Roundhouse Community Art Centre, and love facilitating and finding ancient words which rebel against form, and birth new timelines. They are the Creative Director and Founder of the Transgender Expressions Haven (thehaven.lgbt)—an organization devoted to celebrating transgender creative genius through interactive, media, and multi-dimensional art.

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DON’T MISS THIS BIG-HEARTED BROADWAY MUSICAL!

Cast of Kinky Boots, 2022: set design by Pam Johnson; costume design by Barbara Clayden; lighting design by John Webber; photos by Moonrider Productions

D

rag queens, fabulous shoes, and music by Cyndi Lauper: what’s not to love?! The Arts Club Theatre Company is starting Pride Month and Summer 2022 off strong with its production of Kinky Boots, a fun and touching romp with book by Harvey Fierstein that will be playing at the Stanley Industrial Alliance Stage until July 31. This play has been a long time coming, since it was initially planned for 2020 (and we know what happened there). After such a long wait, the cast is excited to bring this dynamic show to life for Vancouver audiences.

KICKING OFF SUMMER 2022 (AND PRIDE MONTH) WITH THE HIGHEST HEELS POSSIBLE Kinky Boots is the story of Charlie Price, 22

whose inherited shoe business can be saved only with the help of fabulous drag queen Lola, who guides Charlie in producing a line of gorgeous—perhaps even kinky—high-heeled boots. But the play’s message is less about business and more about the value of community, the beauty of diversity, and the power of individual expression.

With pandemic restrictions loosening, audience members were eager to put on their best pair of shoes to attend the opening night performance. The sold-out show received a standing ovation for its powerful celebration of queer community. Director Barbara Tomasic, hailing from UBC’s Fine Arts program, and award-winning choreographer (and former Radio City Rockette) Julie Tomaino

brought out the strengths in an already sparkling cast. Cyndi Lauper’s musical score, which sprawls over a range of styles, can’t fail to win over even the most stolid audience members. For this production, the music was performed by a 7-piece live band led by Ken Cormier, longtime accompanist for the well-loved Vancouver men’s choir Chor Leoni.

The show’s sparkling opening night also included shoe-polishing by Awl Together Leather, a queer-owned leatherworking and footwear business. In a striking coincidence, given the subject matter of Kinky Boots, Awl Together’s co-founders met while working in a boot factory, so their presence at the play’s first performance seemed particularly appropriate. And the very name of their Together Again 2022

business fits perfectly with the show’s theme: we all need to stick together.

QUEER COMMUNITY, QUEER JOY

Yes, Kinky Boots really is about all of us being together. The play represents the joy of the queer experience in its celebration of diversity, individuality, and inclusion.

Most importantly, the production and cast reflect those values. All but one of the cast members are local actors, people who know the lower mainland community and one another. This includes Vancouver-based drag queen Uropa/Jeffrey Follis, who plays one of Lola’s drag queen angels, and real-life mother and son Colleen Winton and Sayer Roberts, who play Charlie Price and factory worker Trish. It’s a play about community in every way.

Other notables in the cast are Andrew Wheeler, a well-known Vancouver actor with over 100 movie and film credits who can currently be seen in Crave’s series Pillow Talk, and Stewart Adam McKensy, whose memorable performance as Lola is strengthened by his previous experience in a Toronto production of Kinky Boots.

The tight-knit cast has forged even stronger connections with one another and with the queer community under the guidance of cultural consultant Rae Takei, whose drag persona Rose Butch has made waves in Vancouver’s drag scene. Takei brings their lived experience to the cast to help them represent the queer community as authentically as possible. The actors playing the drag queens have big shoes to fill (pun intended), and have immersed themselves in learning about queer culture and drag, working on finding their drag persona, and even putting the legwork in to hone their makeup skills (a good cut crease takes some practice!). Takei is there to advise and guide.

However, Takei is also an educator— and an advocate for queer safety and inclusion. They take these roles seriously.

Avoiding potentially harmful language or damaging stereotypes is key, and Takei is there to guide the play’s producTogether Again 2022

tion accordingly. Using the definitions provided by the queer advocacy organization QMUNITY, they’ve also compiled a Queer Glossary for the programme to help out audience members who may want to learn more about terminology (what’s the difference between transgender and transvestite? What does “GNC” mean?). These efforts are about welcoming others into the community rather than keeping them out. Audiences will leave the theatre feeling a sense of unity and hope—and a kind of “queer joy”.

To complement the production of Kinky Boots itself, Takei is working with the producers to provide other opportunities for queer-oriented education and entertainment. On June 19, Takei and fellow drag performer Jaylene Thyme spoke at one of the Arts Club’s Sunday Salons, sharing some of their experiences in the drag world. In addition, Takei as Rose Butch is hosting the Good Epiphany Cabaret on July 25 with several other drag performers and members of the Kinky Boots cast—a free outreach event that has already sold out!

THESE BOOTS WERE MADE FOR WATCHING

It's been a rough two years, and Kinky Boots is just the boost that we need right now—sparkly, joyful, and with some fantastic footwear. It’s a refreshing celebration of queerness and community—and it’s happening at just the right time.

If you want that jolt of queer joy, make sure you don’t miss out! Kinky Boots will be running until July 31, and showtimes and ticket prices are available on the Arts Club’s website at artsclub.com.

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Proudly supporting our communities with culturally safe and equity-oriented care for all.

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PRIDE IS CONFIDENCE NOTHING FEELS BETTER THAN LOVING YOURSELF

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Harm Reduction We’re here for a good time AND a long time. From wearing sunscreen to using seat belts, we all practice harm reduction. Whatever your Pride plans are, take steps to stay safe and have fun.

Have questions? Look for representatives from Karmik and Good Night Out at Sunset Beach Festival.

SUNSCREEN, HAT, AND SHADES!

HIGH FIDELITY EAR PLUGS

FUEL YOUR FUN

Do you really hate everything or do you just need a snack? Stay hydrated and fed by packing extra snacks, electrolytes, and a water bottle.

KEEP IT COVERED MASK AND HAND SANI

Be hooked up for your hook up—don’t forget dental dams, condoms, gloves, and lube. Visit getcheckedonline.com to get tested for STIs without visiting a doctor.

HOME AGAIN, HOME AGAIN KNOW BEFORE YOU GO

Plan your drug use and gather what you need while sober to avoid risky impulse decisions later.

Drop a small sample off with getyourdrugstested.com (880 E Hastings St.) daily, 12-8 p.m. or HiM (1033 Davie St.) July 29-31, 6-8 p.m. Check drug interactions at combo.tripsit.me.

Before you go out, decide where you are going to spend the night and how you will get there. Bring bus, cab, or rideshare fare, even if you have a designated driver.

SHARING AIN’T CARING

Bring your own cut straws, bump spoons, glass pipes, or needles—bring extra for friends but don’t swap supplies.

SAVE A LIFE

Carry narcan with you. Visit towardtheheart.com to learn how to respond to an overdose, where you can pick up narcan, and where to receive narcan training.

USE SMART

Don’t use alone, buddy up! Start slow, take a small amount, and see what effect it has.

Check in with your friends to make sure they are playing safe and feeling comfortable.

Learn more at checkhimout.ca/highlife.

WEAR COMFORTABLE SHOES OR PACK FLATS 26

GOT CONSENT?

Consent is for more than just sex!

Hugs, handjobs, and everything between and beyond needs a consent check. Don’t forget to check in with your own boundaries before you go out and play.

Seb Black illustrations

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2022 PRIDE EVENT SCHEDULE For the full event schedule and tickets, visit vancouverpride.ca/events.

LOVE INTERSECTIONS PANEL July 20 • 6 p.m.

Djavad Mowafaghian Cinema, SFU Woodwards, 149 West Hastings St. Join Love Intersections for a screening of Richard Fung’s Re:Orientations, Yellow Peril: Queer Destiny, and a special premiere of two bonus chapters–Yellow Peril: Queer Futures. The screening will be followed by a panel on intergenerational queer East Asian solidarity and community building.

RAINBOW LOUNGE July 22-24, July 28-August 1 • Weekdays: 12 p.m.-12 a.m.

Weekends: 12 p.m.-2 a.m.

Ocean Art Works Pavillion, 1531 Johnston St. See page 30 for lounge takeover programming.

Sponsored by Stoli Vodka, Vizzy Seltzer, Bud Light, Stanley Park Brewing

HOT FRUIT COOL WATER

BY MANGOSWEET July 24 • 5-10 p.m.

Come and soak with MangoSweet at HOTFRUIT/COOLWATERS this Pride! MangoSweet is bringing their signature tasty beats to a private pool party exclusively for QTBIPOC and their families. Enjoy a swim, a dance, and a poolside hang with your besties! Capacity is very limited so make sure to register for one of the two sessions! Check out the event page for full details!

PRIDE PROCLAMATION July 25 • 12-12:30 p.m. *LIVESTREAM* • *ASL* • All Ages Witness the annual reading of the proclamation by Mayor Kennedy Stewart, a welcome from our host nations, and the introduction of the 2022 Grand Marshals at the annual Pride Proclamation and Flag Raising!

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DRAG DELIVERIES

VIZZY FOREST LOUNGE

July 25-29 • 5-6 p.m.

YVR Airport, West End and Downtown All Ages

July 28-August 1 • 2-11 p.m.

1100 Bute St.

Calling all drag stans! Meet our street team along with your favourite local drag performers to answer iconic Pride trivia, test your knowledge, and win some FREE swag! Watch VPS socials to find out where you and your besties can find us each day! Ride by Evo Car Share.

QUEER HISTORY PANEL July 26 • 7-8:30 p.m. *LIVESTREAM* • *Closed Captioning and ASL* • All Ages Learn and unlearn from queer activists at the Queer History Panel, moderated by Charmaine de Silva. Hear from Brandon Yan, Chris Morrissey, Paige Frewer, Karmella Barr, and Orene Askew as they share their experiences with us.

Sponsored by Westland Insurance

TUTS PRIDE NIGHT July 26 • 7:30-9:30 p.m.

Malkin Bowl, Stanley Park, 610 Pipeline Rd. • All Ages Kick-off Pride Week at the hard-rocking international phenomenon We Will Rock You, celebrating Queer icon Freddie Mercury and QUEEN’s iconic songbook. All seat cushion and programme donations will be matched by TUTS in support of VPS.

PRIDE NEIGHBOURHOOD PATIO AT BENTALL July 28-30 • 12-8 p.m.

Bentall Centre Plaza, 505 Burrard St. See page 30 for Pride Neighbourhood Patio programming.

See page 30 for Vizzy Lounge programming.

POSH BALL BY VAN VOGUE JAM July 29 • 7 p.m.-12 a.m.

Fairmont Hotel Vancouver, 900 W. Georgia St. • 19+ Vancouver Kiki Ballroom Scene is here for the 2nd annual POSH BALL, docking at a port near you! We are getting wet and wild this year, bringing you the booty you’ve all been looking for. ALL ABOARD! 50% of ticket profits will be donated to Vancouver Black Therapy & Advocacy Foundation.

TERRY WALLACE MEMORIAL BREAKFAST July 30 • 8 a.m.-12 p.m.

Across from Jim Deva Plaza, 1100 Bute St. Enjoy a pancake-by-donation in Jim Deva Plaza and commemorate one of our society's founders. Terry Wallace funded and sustained the Pride Parade through the Castle Pub's 50/50 and pull-tab machines through years of financial instability.

Food provided by Your Independent Grocery on Davie.

SUNSET BEACH FESTIVAL July 31 • 11 a.m.-6 p.m.

Sunset Beach Park, 1204 Beach Ave. *ASL at Main Stage & Community Stage* All Ages Drag? Music? Snacks? A sweet picnic spot after the parade? Sunset Beach Festival has it all! Visit the artisan market, sip lemonade at the Community Stage curated by RiceCake, dance your heart out at the TD Main Stage hosted by Hotlatch, or grab a naughty-shaped waffle on your way to the beer garden with Stoli Stage curated by Normie Corp!

Together Again 2022

Educate and celebrate.

To our LGBTQIA2s+ educators, student leaders, and community organizations who continue to

On view at

help Langara learn and develop a safe, healthy, and inclusive campus, we celebrate you.

Partners in Redress & Decolonization

Learn more. langara.ca/pride2022

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Sustaining Funders

mmunity co2000! vibrant since Proudly serving the West End’s

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VIP PARADE VIEWING PARTY July 31 • 11 a.m.-3:30 p.m.

CRAFT Beer Market, 1795 Beach Ave. $113 Grab your friends for the best seat in the West End at CRAFT Beer Market. Share in the joy and celebrate with the community as over 125 floats make their way past this iconic location.

COVID-19 Safety:

Attendees are strongly encouraged to mask up at the Parade and Sunset Beach Festival to protect ourselves and our communities. Masks are available on site.

VANCOUVER PRIDE PARADE July 31 • 12-3 p.m. • West End • All Ages ASL and Live Description at Accessible Parade Viewing Zone It’s time to get Together Again for the first

LEVEL UP PRIDE

in-person Vancouver Pride Parade in two years! Witness history, make memories, take up space, and be your full authentic selves—together.

July 31 • 9:30 p.m.-2:30 a.m.

East Side Studios, 550 Malkin Ave. Vancouver’s only queer hip hop dance party! LEVEL UP is created by and for QTBIPOC. Expect a stunning line up of QTBIPOC drag performances, go go dancers, and DJs all night long! Allies are welcome to attend, but be mindful of the space you take up and show up to support and celebrate your QTBIPOC friends/partners/kin.

AFROQUEER YVR PRESENTS “PRIDE SUNDAY” July 31 • 1-8 p.m.

Beaumont Studios, 316 W 5th Ave. Vancouver’s only Black pride event, invites members of the Afro-diasporic, Indigenous, and Brown Queer communities to enjoy the sounds of our culture. Uplifting Black/African artistic expression, the event highlights an all-Black DJ lineup, West African and Caribbean treats, drag performances and more. afroqueeryvr.com

RICECAKE AFTER SUNSET July 31 • 6 p.m.-12 a.m.

1575 Vernon Dr. After sunset, celebrations continue with Ricecake! Come to East Van for more Asian excellence + a special guest. Follow @ricecakeyvr for details!

Funded by Creative BC.

SOBER LOUNGE July 31 • 3-9 p.m.

Shoppers Drug Mart Parking Lot, 1125 Davie St. See below for Sober Lounge programming.

2022 PRIDE LOUNGES Enjoy lounge-style entertainment featuring your favourite local drag performers and musicians, indulge in a beverage, make memories, and have a truly unforgettable Pride experience. Find event information and tickets at vancouverpride.ca/events.

RAINBOW LOUNGE

Chosen Family Day

July 22-24, July 28-August 1 Weekdays: 12 p.m.-12 a.m.

Weekends - 12 p.m. - 2 a.m.

Ocean Art Works Pavillion, 1531 Johnston St.

PRIDE NEIGHBOURHOOD PATIO AT BENTALL

Take in views, art, and performances during Pride Week on Granville Island.

Enjoy lounge-style entertainment featuring your favourite local drag performers and musicians.

The Haven x Rainbow Lounge July 22 • 7 p.m.-1 a.m.

Toddy Cabaret x Rainbow Lounge July 23 • 6-10 p.m.

Queer Poetry Slam x Rainbow Lounge July 24 • 6-10 p.m.

Deviant Lingerings x Rainbow Lounge July 28 • 7 p.m.-12 a.m.

Aces & Aros x Rainbow Lounge July 29 • 5-9 p.m.

Comedy Here Often x Rainbow Lounge July 30 • 7-11 p.m.

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August 1 • 11 a.m.-5 p.m. • All Ages

July 28-30 • 3-10 p.m.

Bentall Centre Plaza, 510 Burrard St. Live it up in the Pride Neighbourhood Patio at Bentall Centre! Enjoy a hot summer night with drinks, music, and drag in the heart of Vancouver. Delight in performancesfrom your local favourite, make memories, and have a truly unforgettable Pride.

Q Factor x Pride Neighbourhood Patio July 30 • 3-10 p.m.

VIZZY FOREST LOUNGE July 28-August 1 • 2-11 p.m.

1100 Bute St. Indulge in your favourite beverage at the Vizzy Forest Lounge in Davie Village, the heart of all things queer. Enjoy loungestyle entertainment featuring your favourite local drag performers and musicians.

ENBY 6 x Vizzy Forest Lounge July 28 • 3-10 p.m.

AfroQueer & Level Up x Vizzy Forest Lounge July 29 • 5-10 p.m.

Virago Nation x Vizzy Forest Lounge July 30 • 2-11 p.m.

LOUD AND PROUD x Vizzy Forest Lounge July 31 • 3-11 p.m.

Vizzy Vacation x Vizzy Forest Lounge August 1 • 1-11 p.m.

SOBER LOUNGE July 31 • 3-11 p.m.

Shoppers Drug Mart Parking Lot, 1125 Davie St. Sober People, Sober Curious People, Friends, and Allies, all are welcome to join us for an amazing time after the Sunset Beach Festival for some substance free fun. Featuring MC Alma Bitches, Jaylene Tyme, Kendall Gender, Juice Boxx, Ruby Starlight, TODDY, Serenity Meadows, DJs, and so much more.

Together Again 2022

HAPPY PRIDE

Celebrate at Nita Lake Lodge, Whistler's ONLY Lakeside Hotel & Spa. BC Residents Save up to 25% this Summer.

604-966-5700 www.nitalakelodge.com @nitalakelodge

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EVENT MAPS Accessible area

Pride Lounges

Food — gluten free,

Water refills

Accessible parking

Information

Volunteer station

S

Accessibility shuttle

Parade hosts

Accessible access paths

ASL

ASL interpretation

Security

Parade route

Bike valet

Shade provided

P

vegan, nut free, dairy free available

More info on page 30.

(disability priority)

First aid

More info on page 34.

Corner of Robson & Nicola West End Community Center (Denman at Haro) Corner of Beach & Broughton – Vocal Eye & ASL

Vendors

S Accessibility Shuttles Accessibility shuttles are open to all, but will prioritize folks with accessibility needs.

Accessible viewing

Pride Lounge

Accessible (blue)/ non-accessible (orange) toilets

Chairs provided

Vizzy Forest Lounge – Davie and Bute Pride Neighbourhood Patio – Bentall Centre Plaza, 501 Burrard Street Rainbow Lounge on Granville Island – 1531 Johnston Street

Waterfront Station to Sunset Beach Park Departs Arrives 9:40am 9:50am 10:25am 10:35am 11:10am 11:20am

Sunset Beach Park to Waterfront Station Departs Arrives 4:00pm 4:15pm 5:00pm 5:15pm 6:00pm 6:15pm

SUNSET BEACH FESTIVAL Sunday, July 31 • 11am-6pm

Jervis St.

hton S

Broug

.

h Ave

Beac

Beach Av

t.

ASL

ASL

de Para e l b i ne ss Acce ewing Zo i V Multi-Sensoryone tZ Room & Quie

P

COMMUNITY ZONE

Community Stage Res C o mmunity

& es c r ou

ge Villa t s i Art

MARKET ZONE

EVENT HQ Volunteer

Sign-in

Bike Valet Drop Off

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Ramp access to Main Stage accessible viewing area Together Again 2022

Pender St.

VANCOUVER PRIDE PARADE

Dunsmuir St.

at Bentall Centre

W. Georgia St.

Sunday, July 31 • 12pm-3pm

Alberni St. Robson St.

Road closures Staging Area (7:00am-3:00pm) • Robson between Jervis and Burrard • Alberni between Bute and Burrard • Thurlow between W. Georgia and Nelson • Bute between Alberni and Haro • Jervis between Eihu Lane & Rosemary Brown Lane Robson Street (8:00am-4:00pm) • Robson between Jervis and Denman Denman Street (8:30pm-4:00pm) • Denman between Robson and Burnaby Beach Avenue (9:00am-4:00pm) • Beach between Bidwell and Jervis Dispersal Area (9:30am-4:30pm) • Pacific between Jervis and Thurlow • Beach between Jervis and Thurlow

Pride Neighbourhood Patio

Haro St. Barclay St. Nelson St.

S

Sunset Beach Festival

Howe St.

Hornby St.

Harwood St.

Location 1 – R obson & Denman @ Safeway Location 2 – D enman & Comox @ Denman Place Mall Location 3 – B each & Davie @ CRAFT Beer Market Location 4 – B each & Broughton @ Sunset Beach Festival

Burrard St.

Burnaby St.

Thurlow St.

Davie St.

Vizzy Forest Lounge

Bute St.

Pendrell St.

Jervis St.

Parade hosts

Comox St. Broughton St.

Bidwell St.

Denman St.

Pacific St. Beach

Ave.

Rainbow Lounge

on Granville Island

S t.

Bute S

ve.

Beach Ave.

Ramp access to Licensed Zone accessible entrance Ramp access to Main Stage accessible viewing area Fast Pass & Accessible Entry TD Main Stage

T

ASL

Stoli Stage 19+ Zone

Accessible Viewing Area

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Stoli Stage (19+)

LICENSED ZONE 19+ Licensed Zone Entry

Bike Valet Drop Off

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Accessibility See page 32 to view the locations of accessibility features highlighted on Pride Parade route and Sunset Beach Festival maps.

THREE ACCESSIBLE PRIDE PARADE VIEWING ZONES Beach and Broughton features:

• Mixed shaded seating (chairs, bleachers, mobility device parking) • Accessible portapotties • Water • Earplugs and fidget toys • Parade Commentary by an emcee with ASL Interpretation • Live Description with VocalEye West End Community Centre (at Denman and Haro) and Robson and Nicola feature:

Lung Liu photo

• Shaded seating • Water • Bathroom access

Network and North Shore Disability Resource Centre • Accessible viewing zones at the Community Zone and Main Stage with ASL interpretation

SUNSET BEACH FESTIVAL

BEER GARDEN

• Accessibility shuttle from Waterfront Station to Jervis and Pacific Avenue (see page 32 for schedule) • Low sensory zones by Canucks Autism

• Accessible entrance • Accessible viewing zone next to stage with seating, earplugs, water, and stim toys available

• Drink service to those seated in this area Learn more on what we are doing at vancouverpride.ca/about-us/accessibility.

For full accessibility information for each event, including details on parking, terrain, seating, and more please visit vancouverpride.ca/festival-parade/ accessibility.

Please reach out to us with any questions at accessibility@vancouverpride.ca or 604-687-0955.

Connect to add support.

#ConnectToAccept

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Vera’s on Davie salutes Pride

Sonia Furstenau Leader, BC Green Party MLA, Cowichan Valley

Adam Olsen MLA, Saanich North & the Islands

HAPPY PRIDE, VANCOUVER! FROM YOUR BC GREEN MLAs

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I dream of Bliss

by Juno

I dream of Blissful nights – where canaries sing symphonies of stars – where organs hum in delight, at the sounds of my footsteps and the fields of white tulips swallow me in one breath where my fingertips taste the Heavens, and allow my palms to grasp the sweetest of Euphoria then my eyes painfully pry awake – Day, let me dream forevermore!

I lie dead upon my body yearning for Her soft knock on my door oh, what Ecstasy!

– to be with Bliss once more.

JUNO is an artist, writer, and poet based in Vancouver. She is an interdisciplinary artist interested in exploring concepts of personification, balance, religious identity, colour, seasons, and the intersectionality of all things. Mostly utilizing self-taught skills, Juno embraces accidents and refuses categorizations of being a 'professional'.

Inspirations include Clarice Lispector, Maggie Nelson, Emily Dickinson, and Leonard Cohen. She currently attends UBC.

Deon Feng illustrations

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®/© 2022 Subway IP LLC.

NEW AT THE GALLERY

For a complete list of all current and upcoming exhibitions and public programs, please visit VANARTGALLERY.BC.CA

More Access. More Art. More Often.

Become a member and enjoy free entry year round. VANARTGALLERY.BC.CA/MEMBERSHIP

Paraskeva Clark, Self-Portrait, 1931–32, oil on cardboard, Collection of Museum of London, Ontario, © Estate of Paraskeva Clark

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HAPPY FROM

RECOVERY CENTER

Are Drugs and Alcohol Ruining Your Pride?

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Call today If you or someone you love needs help Youth, Adult and Family Programs Since 1984 1-866-525-9771

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The Importance of Sober Spaces for Queers in Recovery during Pride Celebrations

A

by Alexis Zygan

t 19 years old, I became immersed in the drinking culture at queer events where I felt accepted and at home. Drinking allowed me to socialize without inhibitions when I still wasn’t entirely comfortable with my identity. I got intoxicated to self-medicate mental health symptoms and blow off steam. Four years later, as bars closed during the pandemic, the quarantine isolation allowed me to reflect on my destructive pattern of misusing alcohol. I acknowledged the adverse impact drinking had on my well-being.

Practicing self-awareness led me to reluctantly accept that I had to stop attending parties to quit substances. Appropriately timed during the lockdown, I transitioned my lifestyle from hedonist partygoer to sober homebody. I replaced weekends spent binge drinking with slow mornings. For the first time in four years, I woke up without a hangover or liver cramps, mourning the reckless phase of my life, and embraced my new normal—sobriety. As I began to reconnect with myself, I discovered feelings 40

I had numbed with alcohol. A suppressed spark resurfaced, and an identity I had rejected due to growing up in a homophobic environment. Getting sober created space for an authentic expression of my queerness to blossom.

While my peers were thrilled to gather at bars along Davie Street when they reopened, the euphoria of sobriety shifted to a strange sense of anxiety and dread. I denied invitations out of fear that I lacked the willpower to say no when offered a beer. I felt uneasy about attending events where I knew alcohol would be present.

Warehouse parties presuppose encountering environmental cues I associate with drinking shots, snorting lines, and dancing till sunrise. Triggers are ever-present in the life of a sober person, especially when entering an environment where substances are consumed as a social lubricant for connection. As I plan my Pride 2022 cele-

brations, after celebrating two years sober, questions arise: Am I comfortable setting boundaries and leaving an event when I feel triggered? Do I even belong in queer spaces if I’m not consuming alcohol?

Historically, when queer people gathered they got intoxicated. At secret gay bars, communities of resistance and cultural norms were formed. Only once queers could no longer exist in secrecy did they gather elsewhere. However, the habit of consuming cocktails remained, with 25% of 2SLGBTIQAI+ people having a moderate dependence on alcohol.

As I reflect on my concerns about being together again with my queer family, I acknowledge my desire to celebrate Pride.

But rather than spending the weekend binging on alcohol as I have in previous years, my goal is to remain unintoxicated.

I want to advocate for changing the centrality of alcohol in queer spaces because

Getting sober created space for an authentic expression of my queerness to blossom.

Together Again 2022

To ensure the safety of our community, we need access to harm reduction and to events that don’t revolve around binge drinking or substance use.

Nadine Hajjaj illustration

members of 2SLGBTQAI+ communities are 90% more likely to use drugs and alcohol than their cis, heterosexual counterparts. With 1 in 4 struggling with alcohol misuse, according to the National Institute on Drug Abuse and American Addiction Centre, to attend Pride sober, I had to redefine my relationship with what it means to celebrate queerness.

There are many reasons why folks belonging to a sexual or gender minority are more likely to struggle with heavy drinking and drug abuse. In everyday life, we encounter more stressors such as social inequality, prejudice, homophobia, transphobia, and discrimination. Many of us feel confused about our identity and struggle with our sense of self, attributed to internalized homophobia and transphobia. According to a Psychology of Violence Study, 2SLGBTQAI+ folks disproportionately experience higher exposure to potentially traumatic events, and trauma is a gateway drug to addiction. Further, substances have historically played a pivotal role in community formation.

The first gay liberation protest happened in the Stonewall Inn, a tavern where watered-down cocktails were sold to self-identified gay men. Quite possibly, liquid courage helped to turn fed-up queers into heroes who collectively rallied against police raids. Behind closed doors, the bar Together Again 2022

served as a battleground of the queer revolution and a secret meeting place where no subliminal codes were necessary to identify each other.

Even as 2SLGBTQAI+ communities gained acceptance and visibility within mainstream culture, queer bar culture remains a staple for fostering connection.

Even though the drinking lifestyle normalized within our community can lead to mental and physical health problems, the use of substances is associated with cultural identity and an incentive for releasing shame and unlocking candour in self-expression. The centrality of drinking culture in queer celebrations has also been recognized by liquor companies that capitalize on it by selling rainbow-branded alcohol. Attending a drag show at

a warehouse is a rite of passage for the newly-out queer. By participating in queer nightlife, we are liberated from the cis-heteronormative structures of existing. Our queer ancestors fought so that we can allow our true selves to shine in a non-judgemental space.

To ensure the safety of our community, we need access to harm reduction and to events that don’t revolve around binge drinking or substance use. The prevalence of active addiction within our community must be recognized and spoken about to reduce stigma and encourage those struggling to seek support. Access to sober-friendly spaces for queers in recovery during Pride is vital for our survival.

We have been accustomed to gathering at bars and using alcohol and drugs to connect for far too long. Attending Pride presents new challenges this year for those who began our alcohol-free journey during the pandemic. I want to affirm that sober queers still belong in queer spaces. We are not defined by our addictive tendencies but by the people we love.

Knowing our triggers and finding others in the community who are sober can help us get through Pride without relapsing. If you are facing addiction, you are not alone. We are stronger together. ●

ALEXIS ZYGAN (she/her) is a first-generation Polish Canadian and queer creative. She graduated in 2019 from Capilano University with a Bachelor of Communications Studies Degree.

Her bold personality and strong values shine through in personal essays and interviews. Her work has been published in Sad Mag, Binaries are Bullshit, Bipan Magazine and Exclaim!, in addition to contributing to the VanArtLink blog. Her courageous character drives her passion for embracing unique ideas and seeking adventure. She dabbles in analogue photography with her trusty Canon AE-1 camera in her spare time. Alexis currently works in the non-profit sector and continues to write when inspiration strikes.

You can view her writing on alexiszygan.ca 41

Liberation Libations Alcohol-free “Pay it No Mind” sparkler honours revolutionary Marsha P. Johnson

by Naomi Grace

N

othing says “celebrate” like a sparkling cocktail. Thanks to the rise in popularity of sober socialising, more mixologists are incorporating alcohol-free offerings into their regular repertoire. Now you can choose to forego the booze while still relishing the decadence of a beautifully hand-crafted beverage to toast with friends. This is great news for those of us who choose an alcohol-free or -reduced lifestyle.

No shade to the pop and juice folks, but in my opinion, there is something ritualistic about sipping from a carefully curated glass of drinkable art.

I created this offering, the “Pay It No Mind” Sparkler, in honour of Marsha P. Johnson; African American trans woman, gay liberation activist, revolutionary, community organizer, artist, and soldier of love. Marsha has been credited as the first person to fight back against police brutality at the Stonewall Inn, spurring the Stonewall Uprisings of 1969. The ensuing marches and demonstrations lead to the first Pride Parade in 1970. “Pay it no mind” was Marsha’s clever catchphrase and clapback to unsolicited questions about her gender.

This tisane-based cocktail, inspired by the floral crowns Marsha is seen wearing in iconic photographs, features a bouquet of passionflower, hibiscus, and butterfly pea flower. These flowers, in addition to being fragrant and lovely, have reported health properties including anxiety relief, mood elevation, immune support, and cardiac benefits.

Enhanced by subtle undertones of grapefruit and ginger, Pay It No Mind sparkles with Oddbird Spumante, a dealcoholized Prosecco-style wine from the Veneto region of Italy.

However you choose to imbibe, have fun, be free, and remember that Pride as we know it today happens because of the revolutionary work of trans women of colour, a revolution that is rooted in generosity, love, and collective liberation. Our liberation is why we celebrate, so let’s give thanks and cheers to that! ●

PAY IT NO MIND • 1 heaping Tbsp each of dried butterfly pea flower and passionflower • 4 dashes each Fee Brothers Hibiscus Water and Fee Brothers Grapefruit Bitters (available from The Modern Bartender, 28 E Pender St., Vancouver, themodernbartender. com) • 1 oz passionfruit juice • ½ oz ginger simple syrup • 4 oz OddBird Spumante (shipping across Canada from Sansorium, sansorium.com) In a glass teapot, pour 12oz boiling water over dried herbs. Let steep for 20 minutes, or until tea has cooled to just warmer than room temperature.

Tea should be a brilliant, royal blue hue.

Pour over ice into a cocktail shaker—1.5 oz tea, hibiscus water, grapefruit bitters, passionfruit juice, and simple syrup. Shake well and strain into a champagne flute.

Colour should change to somewhere between violet and indigo.

Top with Oddbird Spumante and watch as the colour changes once again to lilac.

Garnish with something pretty and enjoy.

NAOMI GRACE (she/they) identifies as a "multisensory medicine maker and artsy-fartsy rabble rouser". In addition to being a celebrated artist and educator, Naomi studied wine fundamentals through the International Sommelier Guild and has an extensive career history in fine dining and craft bartending. Since making the decision to embrace an alcohol-free and plant-based lifestyle, her focus has shifted towards creating "multisensory art" which incorporates food and drink, emphasizing beauty and ritual to create immersive experiences.

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Together Again 2022

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Order proudly from your local 2SLGBTQ+ restaurants to show your support.

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P R E M I E R

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Rainbow crowd pleasers Deep fry and grill your way into their heart this Pride

by Alexandra King

I

t’s been a long two years since I’ve seen your faces, dear friends, and I’ve missed you. Through the grey, liminal space of the pandemic our community created new ways to remain connected, vibrant, and safe. We zoomed dinner parties, created social bubbles, and did physically distant porch drop-offs of all that sourdough and TikTok pasta.

We loved, and many of us lost loved ones.

This Pride season we are finally together again.

So, what’re you doing for Pride this year?

My birthday weekend happens to coincide with Pride weekend, and I’ll be hosting a small bbq and deep fry party for friends to kick off the weekend in style.The idea is simple: fire up your grill and get a pot of oil hot and ready to cook up a rainbow potluck full of bright, fresh flavours. I’ve chosen to unite two pub favourites—fried pickles and fried cauliflower—in a fun twist with a palette of sauces, and I’ve been experimenting with a grilled salad of bitter greens, stone fruit, nuts, and cheese, with a punchy sweet miso-apple cider vinaigrette. My human test subjects have declared these dishes a must for any bbq, so come as you are, everybody welcome. And welcome back.

Let’s make this the best Pride reunion we’ve ever had. ●

BEYOND MAYO Serve deep fried dishes with roasted red pepper dip with habanero sauce added, mint and cilantro chutney, and beet and horseradish dip. Experiment with your favourites!

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DEEP FRIED PICKLED CAULIFLOWER • 2 heads cauliflower • 2 cups each vinegar and water • 2 tbsp kosher salt • ¼ cup sugar • 4 bay leaves • 6 cloves of garlic, rough chopped • 1 jalapeño, sliced lengthwise (optional) • 1 handful each of mustard seed and black peppercorns • 1 cup potato starch • 8 cups canola or coconut oil Cut cauliflower into florets and place into 2 jars. Boil the rest of the ingredients except for the potato starch and oil, and pour over the cauliflower. Let cool, and place in the fridge for at least 12 hours—the longer it sits, the better the flavour.

Heat a pot or fryer with the oil to 375°F. Dry the cauliflower and toss it in the potato starch. Working in batches, fry the cauliflower for 1.5 - 2 minutes—just long enough to get crispy on the outside—and transfer to paper towels. Toss with a little extra salt and serve with your favourite dips.

NOTE: Can’t find rainbow cauliflower? Add some diced beets or turmeric to your jars.

The natural pigments will give you some dazzling colours to make your plates beautiful.

While you’re at it, throw in some red onions. You’ll thank me later when they garnish the Grilled Rainbow Salad (next page).

Together Again 2022

ALEXANDRA KING (she/her) is a queer femme, working in some of the raddest kitchens in Vancity for the last 25 years. Her passion is feeding others so that they can fuel their own passions, and to inspire the next generation of cooks to never stop playing with their food, and demand equitable wages and working conditions for the hard work we do. When she is not in the kitchen, you can find her planning her next DnD character, or spending time with her family.

GRILLED RAINBOW SALAD SALAD: • 1 bunch of rainbow chard, stalks removed, leaves cut into forkable pieces • 1 box of spring mix • 2 nectarines, cut into 8 pieces each, stones removed • 1 handful each of your favourite nuts or seeds (or both!)

• 1 handful of your favourite fresh herbs (live your best life—the rules are there are no rules) • Your favourite cheese (again, amounts and type are totally up to your own impeccable taste) MISO-APPLE CIDER VINAIGRETTE • Spoonful of miso paste • ¼ cup apple cider vinegar • ¹⁄� cup neutral tasting oil (canola works well) • ½ Tbsp Dijon mustard • ½ Tbsp honey, maple syrup, or agave Whisk all ingredients for the miso apple cider vinaigrette together and set aside.

Mix the greens, herbs, and chard leaves in a bowl. Place the mix on a plate or in a shallow dish.

Grill the stalks of the chard and the nectarines. Cut the chard stalks however you like (I bias cut them to show off the grill marks), and arrange them on top of the salad. Add vinaigrette, then arrange nectarine slices, nuts, and cheese on top.

If you pickled those red onions I mentioned in the note for the Deep Fried Pickled Cauliflower recipe (previous page), garnish your salad with as many as you like.

Salt and pepper to taste. Share with friends and be happy.

Together Again 2022

GRILLING TIPS No grill? No problem! You can use the broiler function in your oven, or a countertop electric griddle also works in a pinch.

Make sure to keep a watchful eye on anything you broil—if you smell burning, you’re already too late!

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Queer Joy in Books

for Kids and Teens This list is inspired by the graphic novel and TV series Heartstopper and the importance of seeing love, acceptance, and joy in 2SLGBTQAI+ experiences for people of all ages.

by Daycia McDill

FOR KIDS: Ellen Outside the Lines by A. J. Sass On a class trip to Barcelona, Ellen is forced to get to know her classmates better and starts to grow her friendships beyond her best friend, Laurel. In this new environment, she also starts to think more about her identities as a queer jewish austistic teen.

This Is Our Rainbow: 16 Stories of Her, Him, Them, and Us edited by Katherine Locke and Nicole Melleby From pirates to witches, from shopping trips to athletics meets. In this collection of short stories, 2SLGBTQIA+ children are the stars of the story.

My Rainbow by DeShanna Neal and Trinity Neal Based on the real life experiences of a trans girl looking for the right wig to express herself and a loving mother who goes above and beyond to make the dream come true.

FOR TEENS: The Girl From the Sea by Molly Ostertag Discover a love story between a selkie and

a human on the East Coast of Canada.

The girls work together to save the local seals and navigate their new relationship.

The Magic Fish by Trung Le Nguyen A Vietnamese-American boy searches for the right words to come out to his mother, who speaks very little English. Together they share beautifully illustrated fairy tales and find new ways to communicate.

You Should See Me in a Crown by Leah Johnson Liz's last hope for attending her dream school lies in winning prom queen and the scholarship that comes with it. There's sweet romance, high school drama, friendships renewed and torn apart. ●

Vancouver Elementary School Teachers’ Association Vancouver Elementary School Teachers and Adult Educators stand in solidarity with 2SLGBTQIA+ and all equity-seeking students and staff.

Schools need to be safe not just for working and learning, but for self-identification, self-determination, and equitable opportunities for representation.

Let’s keep transforming our schools into accessible, healthy, intersectional spaces for all workers and learners!

Vancouver Elementary School Teachers’ Association • 2915 Commercial Drive, Vancouver • 604-873-8378 • vesta.ca 46

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39 YEARS - SINCE 1983 Together Again 2022

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Shared breath Art as Communion

by Jill Raymond

I

’m not a religious person and the likelihood of that being true for you also, I would hazard a guess, is relatively high.

I am not a fan of any organized religion— the channeling of a ‘God’ or other ‘divinity’ through human figureheads, or interpretation through text written by people, seems counterintuitive to me. If ‘God’ is everywhere, if ‘God’ is within me, why do I need an intermediary for Them (of course, They’re a Them—come on now). But one thing I will say about organized religion is that they have the idea of communion down to a fine art.

However, they are not the only ones.

Storytelling, music, dance, and performance of all descriptions have brought humans together through the arts for just as long, arguably longer, than religions have; performers and audiences know all too well that these communions are just as holy, just as important, and just as necessary.

As a theatre producer and performer, the last two years have been exhaustingly precarious. There were times when I, like many others, wondered if our theatre company would survive the pandemic. It

Performers and audiences know all too well that these communions are just as holy, just as important, and just as necessary. certainly appeared the decision-makers in BC, and indeed Canada, did not share my belief in the importance of live arts. Whilst restrictions began lifting on sports arenas, restaurants, and houses of religion, theatres sat empty and live music venues were silent. The message being sent was devastating: the arts simply do not matter.

Is this because they are largely non-profit ventures and are, therefore, much lower on the priority list in a capitalist-driven economy?

Without proper denomination, no one seems to know quite where we belong.

But, what if live performance is a holy communion—what if connection to art, and to others through art, is a religion? A religion that transcends boundaries and doesn’t ask for compliance to a set of rules. A religion that is constantly reinventing and evolving to be more inclusive.

A religion that doesn’t constrain or limit ideas, hopes, or dreams… now that is a religion I could get into, big time. When you attend live theatre, or a concert, or a reading; that gathering—that shared breath between performers and audience—is sacred. You can feel it. For those who may

feel ostracised or not accepted within the boundaries of traditional religious dogmas, the arts provide a safe place; a place where everyone is welcomed and accepted. The arts open our wild hearts and encourage us to feel more deeply, enable us to be more vulnerable, evoke the celebration of being truly alive.

So in 2020 when the curtains fell, and ‘The Great Intermission’ commenced, I felt completely lost. Indeed, during the midst of the pandemic it felt, at times, that we would never be able to meet in person to enjoy art. That theatre, and all performance art, would soon be seen as archaic, a nostalgic form of entertainment lost to history.

Fortunately, for now, we are here: finally able to gather together again. Theatres are filling, concerts are causing joyful tinnitus, and festivals are exploding into life across the world. This year Vancouver Pride will return to light up the West-End with the return of its sorely-missed parade celebration; people will be dancing in the street; music and performance will fill the air with joy and acceptance; thousands of humans meeting, hugging, sharing the same breath; united in love.

Art is truly what makes us human. Long live our communion. Amen. ●

JILL RAYMOND (she/her) is the Artistic Director of Direct Theatre Collective, and is owner/ director of Artrepreneur Consulting, a communications and marketing specialist. jillraymond.com

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ity. Proud n u

Global News Hour at 6 Weeknights Proud to sponsor Vancouver Pride Society

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Globalnews.ca

I2S+ comm QA

Chris Gailus and Sophie Lui

of the LGBT er

suppo & y l rt al

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Precious Steps

by Marion J. Lefevre

I’m treading lightly in the 6 million shadows Of those who could not be here today For this is dedicated to their memory It still feels unreal, like a steep hill That forced us all to slow down And acknowledge who was around us In the eternity of a day after day after day Who could we turn to?

Who could we trust?

People have been unmasking Complacent in their faith That they can outwit an ongoing pandemic That still threatens us Who has our back?

Who will keep us safe?

In the eternity of a day after day after day The answer was always up to us - the answer is us 50

Seb Black illustration

MARION LEFEVRE resides on unceded territories as a member of the labour class.

When she isn't thoroughly exhausted by the weight of the machine, she enjoys playing her accordion, making zines, and watching her girlfriend ride her penny board.

You can find more of her poetry on her blogspot "Where Have You Been?", hear her caterwaul through tunes on Youtube, and follow her on Twitter @Meowrion.

Together Again 2022

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Anxious Bottle Cliff

by Vert Miyagi Anxious to hear a crash, with a Bottle of wine, I sit by the Cliff in my big winter jacket. I Drink. I’ve accomplished Everything I wanted to in my Favourite dress all alone.

Go to the store and buy a bottle of rosé.

How long until I’m not like this anymore?

Is life Just pulling me along? I Kind of miss the snow. How Long until I have to call my parents? I’ve Made it, this Nice feeling in my chest.

Or will she leave again? Like a Prairie spring. These are Questions that I have like Rain against my window. It gets Softer and then heavier.

Two people standing Under the same umbrella.

Vacuuming at 1 a.m., I can hear When they enter each room.

Xcitement is all I want. I can be whoever You want me to be just pleaZe. Don’t leave again.

Seb Black illustration

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Miss me, please.

by Vert Miyagi It feels unsurpassable.

Every scab is picked off before it can fully heal; again and again.

And if I asked you to miss me, you wouldn’t know how.

My problem is that I search for love in rancid places, There is never enough to satiate a lust so foul.

It feels unsurpassable.

My body is bursting with cutting phrases, But I worry it would be too painful just to open my mouth.

And if I asked you to miss me, you wouldn’t know how.

There’s a sadness in my body that twists into impossible mazes.

I’m afraid only desperation can reach me now.

It feels unsurpassable.

I find companionship in fabricated faces.

Where to put all the love that no one will allow?

And if I asked you to miss me, you wouldn’t know how.

I was beautiful when you weren’t looking.

But under your gaze, I just seem to fall apart.

It feels unsurpassable.

And if I asked you to miss me, you wouldn’t know how.

VERT MIYAGI is a writer and artist living in Vancouver whose work explores the prairies, feminine relationships, and the sansei (third generation) experience. They draw inspiration from the QPOC community, NBC sitcoms, and the midwest. Miyagi is currently pursuing a Bachelor of Media Studies at the University of British Columbia.

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love for all no calories, no sweeteners, all smiles

TM

We connect the proud with Pride.

YVR is a place of welcome for all.

yvr.ca/community

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SUNDAY, JULY 31

DJ LOKOBOY 6pm-late

80s PROM THEME 2 FLOORS DRINK SPECIALS You won’t want to miss it!

Reservations recommended.

Come Celebrate with Us!

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PRIDE CAUSE CAMPAIGNS CHANDON COCKTAIL SUPPORTS VPS COMMUNITY BURSARIES

cocktail symbolizes the acceptance and togetherness that Pride stands for, with proceeds from each cocktail going to the Vancouver Pride Community Bursary Fund. You can also find Chandon at Alberni & Bute BCLS where proceeds from each bottle sold will be donated to Vancouver Pride Bursaries. Look out for more information on the Chandon Pride party on Sunday, July 31st, 2022!

BUD LIGHT LAUNCHES PRONOUN-INSPIRED PRIDE CANS

In celebration of Pride 2022, Chandon is excited to partner with the Vancouver Pride Society to create a special sparkling cocktail that will be served at venues across Vancouver. Inspired by the colours and meaning of the Pride flag, the fresh, bright, and bubbly

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For over 20 years, Bud Light has been a proud Pride partner.

This year we’re providing a total of $100,000 to various organizations supporting 2SLGBTQAI+ communities. Along with this, we’re celebrating the unique gender identities of many Canadians with our can design. We encourage everyone to respect and celebrate everyone’s gender identity and pronouns.

CELEBRATE PRIDE AT FAIRMONT HOTELS & RESORTS Fairmont Hotels & Resorts in Vancouver are proudly providing a variety of activities and offers that benefit the Vancouver Pride Society Community Bursary.

• Add the Love Limitless offer to any new reservation now through August 3 to donate $20 to the VPS Community Bursary, and receive a $20 Food & Beverage credit.

• Select the Love is Love Pride Package for 10% off the best available rate, a $10 donation to VPS, and a specialty chef’s welcome amenity.

• Enjoy special feature Pride cocktails from July 1-August 1, with $1 donated to the VPS Community Bursary, available at all Fairmont Hotels in Vancouver.

• Recover from the weekend on Monday, August 1 at Kendall’s Pride Recovery Brunch, a bottomless brunch and drag show. $5 per ticket to benefit VPS. arcdining.com/event/pride-brunch

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PRiDE 2022

Pride today and everyday West End Branch 1003 Denman Street, Vancouver

Contact your G&F wealth advisor today to create your Smart Money Plan™

604-419-8888 • gffg.com

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COMMUNITY EVENT SCHEDULE From high tea to galleries, nightclubs to afterhours, marches, film festivals, and more, the Vancouver scene explodes with events during Pride. Check out an event or three this Pride, run by one of the many 2SLGBTQAI+ organizations in the city!

ARMY OF LOVERS OPENING RECEPTION AND PANEL DISCUSSION July 14 • 5:30 p.m.

SFU Vancouver Campus, 515 W. Hastings St. FREE • All Ages Exhibit on same-sex attracted women who confronted homophobia, bi-phobia, and trans-phobia in 1970s & 80s. Panel starts at 7:00 pm.

ARMY OF LOVERS: LESBIAN, BISEXUAL, TWO SPIRIT, AND QUEER WOMEN July 14-August 21 SFU Vancouver Campus, 515 W. Hastings St. FREE • All Ages Tells stories of same-sex attracted women who confronted homophobia, bi-phobia, and trans-phobia in society and in the women's movement itself.

SPIRITPRIDE: AN LGBTQ2A+ SPIRITUALITY CONFERENCE July 22 St. Andrew’s-Wesley United Church, 1022 Nelson St $20-$65 • All Ages SpiritPride is an LGBTQ2A+ event celebrating spirituality and LGBTQ2A+ Identity.

Speakers, panels, workshops, and live music July 22-24. spiritpride.org

SANCTUARY DANCE CONCERT

REALLY GAY HISTORY TOUR

July 23 • 7-9 p.m. • St. Andrew’s-Wesley United Church, 1022 Nelson St. $10-$15 • All Ages

Sundays + July 18-30, August 1 • 10 a.m.

Begins at Robert Lee YMCA, 995 Burrard St. $32 • All Ages

Music, Dancing, Messages of Hope: Live performances and inspiration from Trey Pearson and DJ O Show—get on the dance floor! Refugee Fundraiser.

It’s time for Vancouver’s secrets to come out of the closet. From drag kings and two spirit warriors, to queer church ministers and transgender crime fighters, this Forbidden Vancouver walking tour is a celebration of the unsung heroes who forever changed the social fabric of our city.

DRAG QUEEN STORY TIME WITH EMPRESS FANCY PANTS July 23 • 10:30 a.m. and 1:30 p.m.

Honeydip Studios, 109-1535 Johnston St FREE, donations welcome | All Ages Join us for a fun family friendly story time for kids. 10% of all merch sold on this day will be donated to Qmunity.

FITNESS IS SUCH A DRAG FUNDRAISER July 26 • 6:30-8:30 p.m.

Square, 800 West Georgia St.

By Donation • All Ages Pride fundraiser. Cardio sessions. Drag Performances! Register by donation— proceeds going to an Indigenous non-profit: popqueencardio.com

ANTI-PROM July 26 • 11:30 p.m.-2 a.m.

The Junction, 1138 Davie St. $15 • 19+ You are cordially invited to ANTI-PROM, a night hosted by Carmen Dior completely dedicated to breakup and anti-love songs.

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DRAG AT THE IMPROV: PRIDE SHOW! July 28 • 9-11 p.m.

The Improv Centre, 1502 Duranleau St. $25-$37 • Minors may attend with adult Featuring Vancouver’s premier drag talent all in one place, Drag at The Improv will be a night you won’t want to miss!

LET’S HEAR IT! PRIDE July 28 • 6-10 p.m.

Numbers Cabaret, 1042 Davie St. $20 • 19+ Music BC presents Let’s Hear It! PRIDE—a celebration of live music, drag and dance.

Curated with Bye Felicia.

DANDY AND PHYLLIS PRESENT: DRAGGY SHOW—A JUNCTION PRIDE DRAG SHOW July 28 • 7:30-9:30 p.m.

Junction, 1138 Davie St. $15 • All Ages Dandy and Phyllis bring you a whimsical night of pride performances from a super cast. Carrie Oki Doki, Lea Ven Detta, and surprise spotlights!

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CUPE is a proud advocate for 2SLGBTQ+ rights and to fight against discrimination and hate in our workplaces and in our communities.

PRESIDENT Karen Ranalletta

SECRETARY-TREASURER Trevor Davies

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COMMUNITY EVENT SCHEDULE DANDY AND PHYLLIS PRESENT: MOVIES ARE GAY! A RIO PRIDE CELEBRATION July 29 • 7:30-10:30 p.m.

The Rio Theatre, 1660 E. Broadway $20-$30 • All Ages Dandy and Phyllis bring shenanigans to the main stage—it's Rio Pride baby!

Inspired by movies and enthused by gay, come and have a ton of fun!

PRIDE HAPPY HOUR

VANCOUVER DYKE MARCH July 30 • 11 a.m.-8 p.m.

McSpadden Park to Commercial Drive FREE • All Ages All ages and trans-inclusive. March down Commercial Drive from McSpadden Park ending at Grandview Park for festivities, vendors, and performances. vancouverdykemarch.com

DRAG BRUNCH AT THE GPO

July 29 • 4-9 p.m.

Container Brewing Patio, 1216 Franklin St. $15-$20 • 19+

July 30 • 11 a.m.-1 p.m. or 2-4 p.m.

The GPO Bar + Kitchen, 136 W. Cordova St. $50 • 19+

Join us for happy hour before Pride kicks off. There will be games, giveaways, pole dancers, djs, dancing, queer beer, and a performance by Not Sisters.

Pride edition of Gastown's only Drag Brunch! Vancouver’s pop princess Carmen Dior hosts with a cast of entirely trans and non-binary performers!

CHICKS AHOY! VANCOUVER PRIDE BOAT CRUISE PARTY 2022

BYE FELICIA X BLOWPONY (PDX) PRIDE

July 29 • 7-11 p.m.

Magic Yacht Charters, 1601 Bayshore Dr. $64.99 • 19+ If you're looking for some maritime mayhem and a rock-your-world dance floor surrounded by stunning scenery, this is your party.

GO DOWN

July 30 • 9 p.m.-2 a.m.

Biltmore Cabaret, 2755 Prince Edward St. $15-$25 • 19+ Hosted by Alma Bitches, Rogue, Ruby Starlight, BiBi SouPhresh, Amy Grindhouse, Makayla Couture, and DJ G-LUVE w/ special guests from BlowPony (PDX).

DRAG BRUNCH AT THE YALETOWN DISTILLERY

July 29 • 10 p.m.-3 a.m.

The Village Studios, Celebrities, 1022 Davie St. $15-$30 • 19+

July 31 • 11 a.m.-1 p.m.

Yaletown Distillery Bar + Kitchen, 1131 Mainland St. $35 • All Ages

GO DOWN with us underground with hip hop artist Tinywiings, DJs Goodboy Morgan, Realboy, Paisley Eva, & Krista Mac. IG: @prismvancouver

Vancouver's showstopping star Carmen Dior returns to the Yaletown Distillery for another sensational DRAG BRUNCH!

CRUMPET: A PRIDE HIGH-TEA DRAG BRUNCH July 30 • 12-3 p.m.

The Chapel, 1022 Nelson St. $50 • All Ages Join Dandy & Phyllis for a good old fashioned Ball. Joined by a host of characters, Crumpet will be serving you comedy, drag, mimosas, and high tea!

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CLUB TROPICANA July 31 • 9 p.m.-2 a.m.

The Waldorf, 1489 E. Hastings St. $25-$40 • 19+ 2 Rooms, 2 Vibes, Tons of fun! Our tropical themed drag show and queer dance party will end your pride weekend with some hot heat!

HERSHE BAR— VANCOUVER PRIDE CLOSING PARTY 2022 July 31 • 9 p.m.-2 a.m.

Red Room, 398 Richards St. $19.99 • 19+ Hershe Bar is Canada’s biggest lesbian and queer long weekend nightclub party and Pride's closing ritual. Thundering sound system, lights, and rocking DJs.

HOTLINE ☎ VANCOUVER PRIDE AFTERHOURS July 31 • 11:59 p.m.

Location Sent to Ticket Holders $25 • 19+ Pride Afterhours at a seaside outdoor location ft. Sam Steele, Kasey Riot, Nancy Dru, Emerencz, LE3SA, and S@m I Am. Tickets: bit.ly/hotlinevanpride

VANCOUVER QUEER FILM FESTIVAL August 11-21 Online & Vancouver Theatres $5-$21 • All Ages #VQFF2022 returns online BC-wide and in Vancouver theatres August 11-21 with the creative theme “Make It Yours”! More info at queerfilmfestival.ca. ●

CHICAS IN THE AFTERNOON 2022 July 31 • 4-9 p.m.

Sheraton Wall Centre, 1000 Burrard St. $59.99 | 19+ Post parade afternoon party for lesbian and friends in a gorgeous garden. Part garden party, part day-club, full-on racket of elevated debauchery.

Together Again 2022

FLYING WITH PRIDE

S’ENVOLER AVEC FIERTÉ

As our nation’s flag carrier, Air Canada celebrates diversity and inclusion in the air and on the ground. We’re proud to uphold Canadian values by maintaining equal rights and a safe space for all.

Transporteur national, Air Canada célèbre la diversité et l’inclusion en vol comme au sol. Notre fierté : porter haut les valeurs canadiennes en prônant l’égalité des droits et la sûreté de tous.

Come and visit our booth with Tourism Australia during the Pride Fest at Sunset Beach Park for a chance to win a Sydney WorldPride 2023 getaway.

Venez visiter notre kiosque avec Tourism Australia lors du PrideFest au parc Sunset Beach pour une chance de gagner un forfait au WorldPride 2023 à Sydney en Australie.

Be safe.

Be seen.

Be proud.

For resources on workplace health and safety, visit worksafebc.com.

Together Again 2022

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VEHICLES FOR ALL VANCOUVER’S AUTO GROUP, THE DILAWRI GROUP OF COMPANIES, IS GEARED UP TO SUPPORT THE VANCOUVER PRIDE FESTIVAL.

bc.dilawri.ca

Print_Dilawri_0622_VanPride-03-final.indd 1

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Together Again 2022

Less debt, more you!

Family Services of the North Shore Supports our LGBTQ2S+ Communities

We're here to help.

Counselling for parents, individuals, youth, and children PROUD2BE support groups for LGBTQ2S+ youth and parents of gender-diverse youth PROUD2BE virtual education events www.sands-trustee.com

For More Information

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happy pride!

1-800-292-1930

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SERVING THE COMMUNITY WITH PRIDE

Email proud2be@familyservices.bc.ca, visit familyservices.bc.ca or scan the code.

HAPPY PRIDE

PERSELLO LEE REAL ESTATE GROUP

604.306.1340 PerselloLee.com

Fine Wines. Craft Beer. Local Cider.

Each batch individually made with love in East Vancouver 23L Wine Batches Starting At $145 48L Beer Batches Starting At $165 23L Craft Cider Batches Starting at $99 Come See Us Today!

No Appointment Necessary!

1616 Clark Drive

tcbrewing.com

JULY 30 // 9PM–2AM

Together Again 2022

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Thanks to our 2022 sponsors PRESENTING SPONSOR

SUPPORTED BY

PACIFIC NORTHWEST REGION

Vancouver Pride Society thanks all of our 2022 Community Partners for the important service they provide year-round to our communities.

2SQTBIPOC Alliance 604 Record/Comedy Here Often AfroQueer CMMN GRND ENBY 6 Forbidden Vancouver Greater Vancouver Native Cultural Society Haven Health Initiative for Men (HiM) Hotlatch JQT Vancouver Last Door Recovery Society LEVEL UP

Melanin Rising Musqueam Indian Band Normie Corp Out on Screen PFLAG Vancouver Pinoy Pride Qchat QMUNITY QueerProv Rainbow Refugee RiceCake SAIGE Community Food Bank SHER Vancouver

Squamish Nation Theatre Under the Stars Thrive Tsleil-Waututh Nation Vancouver Aces and Aros Vancouver Communities in Solidarity with Cuba Vancouver Dyke March and Festival Vancouver Gaymers Vancouver Sisters of Perpetual Indulgence Van Vogue Jam Velveteen Vintage Virago Nation

Volunteer Thank You The Vancouver Pride Society depends on volunteers to help make our Pride seasons happen. Last year, volunteers showed their adaptability by helping us deliver both virtual and in-person events. In 2021, 113 hardworking volunteers contributed over 1,500 hours of their time to Vancouver Pride and our hybrid event season. This year, Pride has been brought #TogetherAgain with in-person events.

Volunteers enable us to put on events such as East Side Pride, Thrive After Party, Drag Deliveries, Terry Wallace Memorial Breakfast, and the Pride Parade and Sunset Beach Festival. From set up to take down, to everything in between, volunteers work hard to make our events possible. We deeply appreciate all the support shown by our volunteers for over 40 years.

Thank you everyone who dedicated their free time to volunteering at our events. Your passion, dedication, and skills are seen and valued by the Vancouver Pride Society and the communities we serve!

To volunteer, please contact volunteercoordinator@vancouverpride.ca!

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Together Again 2022

Bookkeeping & Tax You Can Rely On Overwhelmed with a pile of paperwork?

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Proudly supporting small business & individuals in our LGBQTIA2S+ Community.

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Together Again 2022

Phone: 604.245.0418 Email: info@kineticbooks.ca Website: kineticbooks.ca 63

Forever Proud.

Forever Progressing.

Recognizing what was. Celebrating what is.

Working for what should be.

Progress for the LGBTQ2+ community continues, but there is still work to be done. That's why we provide year-round support to over 175 LGBTQ2+ initiatives and programs focused on affordable housing, financial literacy, health and social wellbeing.

Learn more at td.com/foreverprogressing

© The TD logo and other trademarks are the property of The Toronto-Dominion Bank or its subsidiaries.

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Together Again 2022