Fraser Valley Pride: Inaugural Pride march to be held in B.C.'s Bible Belt

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      After previous efforts to hold a Pride parade in Abbotsford were deterred by opposition, the first-ever Fraser Valley Pride will take place in the heart of B.C.'s Bible Belt this Saturday (May 25).

      The event will begin at 3 p.m. with a walk from the Matsqui Recreation Centre (3106 Clearbrook Road) to the Civic Plaza, where speeches will be made and a free barbecue will be held.

      The event will continue on into the evening with a screening of Vancouver filmmaker Gwen Haworth's documentary She's a Boy I Knew, about her gender transition, and a panel discussion about the Fraser Valley Youth Society.

      The family-friendly event will include face painting, music, and door prizes.

      In 2008, a Pride march by queer community members and allies was cancelled after facing opposition. However, the group marched instead to protest the school board's cancellation of a Social Justice 12 course that included gay content.

      In subsequent years, Walk Away From Homophobia marches were held annually.

      For more information, visit the Fraser Valley Youth Society website.

      Comments

      5 Comments

      Gina Williams

      May 24, 2013 at 2:22pm

      I live in Abbotsford and have to say I am glad to hear about the Parade. its about time

      Shocked Person

      May 24, 2013 at 3:07pm

      I cannot believe this is happening in B.C.'s Bible belt. I look forward to seeing the shocked look on ignorant faces.

      Trevor Taylor

      May 24, 2013 at 4:34pm

      I've never attended a Pride Parade before, but I'll be there tomorrow!

      Don Wright

      May 24, 2013 at 9:58pm

      Readers are welcome to join Amnesty International members and supporters planning to walk in Abbotsford tomorrow, we'll be wearing Amnesty vests to show that LGBT rights are human rights.

      cathy

      May 25, 2013 at 10:21am

      If the bible thumpers are successful in buying the Centre in downtown Vanocuver-thereby removing this venue for the arts and culture scene-maybe the Vancouver Gay Pride Parade needs to re-route past it and even hold a rally outside?