A move by Pride Toronto to trademark the names "Dyke March" and "Trans* Pride" prompted the Vancouver Dyke March to react with alarm. However, Pride Toronto has since revealed their true motives were for the benefit of all such grassroots events and political demonstrations.

Pride Toronto discovered that an individual was raising funds to trademark the terms "Trans* Pride" and "Dyke March".

In order to block the individual from doing so, Pride Toronto applied to trademark the names on July 8.

Pride Toronto has since stated in a news release that they will be working with lawyers to remove the applications for trademarks by Pride Toronto and to ensure the events and names will remain free from ownership by individuals or organizations.

However, Pride Toronto did not initially inform other organizations of the reasons behind their actions, which led to confusion.

After several people contacted the Vancouver Dyke March about Pride Toronto's move to trademark the names, the Vancouver organization issued a news release on July 18 condemning Pride Toronto's actions.

The release stated:

"Due to their previous behaviour, the lack of press releases or any communication with VDM on this matter, we are forced to conclude that their actions are a willful and overtly hostile attempt to demand licensing fees and impose conditions on Dyke Marches and other LGBTQIA organizations around the continent in exchange for the 'privilege' of selling merchandise with these words on them."

However, Pride Toronto has since been in touch with the Vancouver Dyke March.

Vancouver Dyke March president Catherine Mateo said by phone that a Pride Toronto representative has since been in touch with the Vancouver Dyke March and clarified their plans.

"We understand it's a complex situation for them and so it might it take some time and we're willing to give them that time," Mateo said.

The Vancouver Dyke March first was held in 1981 while the first Dyke March was held in Toronto in 1996.

The 12^th annual Vancouver Dyke March and Festival will take place on August 1. Mateo said they have an "awesome" lineup of local performers, including some from Alberta. More details will be released in the weeks to come.

The march will travel from McSpadden Park, starting at noon, along Commercial Drive to Grandview Park where the family-friendly celebration will take place.