In a time when advocating for and celebrating Regina’s gender and sexually diverse community is more crucial than ever, the Queen City Pride Festival has emerged as a significant event. There are times when members of the LGBTQIA2s+ community in the province face backlash and protests, forcing individuals to have to fight for gender affirming health care , fighting for supportive programs for queer and trans youth – and rallying for support. Saturday June 10th was a brief reprieve from the fight – giving way to celebration
Against the backdrop of challenges faced by LGBTQIA2S+ individuals in our province, the Pride Parade in the Queen City achieved its largest iteration to date, serving as a vibrant display of love, pride, community, and allyship from the citizens of YQR.
The origins of the Queen City Pride Parade lie in a historic event often referred to as a “riot,” where participants were compelled to conceal their identities as they marched, fighting for recognition and acceptance. That was 1989. that was 34 years ago. In that span of time – the parade has taken on a much stronger form.
With an impressive lineup of over 120 floats and a multitude of attendees, Queen City Pride’s marquee parade had the biggest turnout in the event’s history. This remarkable growth is a testament to the commitment and support received from some members of the Regina community.
The ten-day Queen City Pride Festival encompasses a diverse range of venues and showcases musicians, artisans, and performers representing all facets of the sexual diversity spectrum. The festival creates an inclusive space where the rich diversity of the LGBTQIA2S+ community can be embraced, supported, and celebrated.
The festivities continued after the parade in Wascana Park, where thousands of residents gathered for an all-ages event featuring vendors, stage shows, and a special beer garden. The beer served at the garden, crafted by Rebellion Brewing, paid tribute to the historic roots of the parade.
The culmination of the ten-day celebration took place at Pride after Dark, a highly anticipated event that featured Kerri Colby from Rupaul’s Drag Race, a proud transgender person of color. Kerri’s performance enthralled the nearly sold-out crowd, further reinforcing the message of inclusivity and acceptance.
The Queen City Pride Festival stands as a testament to the resilience, determination, and unity of Regina’s gender and sexually diverse community.
The annual celebration takes place in June – marking a part of Pride Month in Saskatchewan.
For more information or to become involved in the festival next year – visit www.queencitypride.ca
