Richmond residents and community members are invited to celebrate Pride Week from Monday, July 31 through Sunday, August 6 with free events and programs that include story times, workshops, fitness classes and an improv performance. In addition, for the first time, a Pride Flag will be displayed at City Hall during Pride Week as a symbol of support and allyship with 2SLGBTQI+ communities.
“The City of Richmond celebrates the contributions of 2SLGBTQI+ communities to our city and recognizes the ongoing need to strive towards a welcoming and inclusive community for everyone,” says Mayor Malcolm Brodie. “Pride Week is a great opportunity to celebrate the diverse communities we have in Richmond.”
The programs and events planned for this year are open to all residents, community members and visitors, and feature local leaders, artists and community members. The events are offered by the City of Richmond, in partnership with Community Associations and Societies and the Richmond Public Library. The full list of 2023 Pride Week in Richmond activities can be found at www.richmond.ca/pride.
Highlights of Richmond’s Pride Week include:
- Pride Author Panel
Monday, July 31, 7 to 8 p.m.
Richmond Public Library – Brighouse, 100-7700 Minoru Gate
Join the conversation with a panel of local authors discussing their personal and literary experiences as queer Asian writers in celebration of Richmond Pride Week. The featured panelists include Eddy Boudel Tan, Aaron Chan, and Tin Lorica. Open to adults 18+ years.
- Rainbow Ride
Tuesday, August 1, 6:45 to 7:30 p.m.
Minoru Centre for Active Living, 7191 Granville Avenue
Break out some rainbow workout gear and pedal with pride in celebration of inclusivity, equality and acceptance. Sweat, sprint and climb to a special Pride-inspired playlist and experience the positivity that happens when uniqueness and individuality are honoured. Open to adults and seniors.
- Allyship Workshop
Thursday, August 3, 4:30 to 6 p.m.
Cambie Community Centre, 12800 Cambie Road
Engage in an allyship education presentation accompanied by interactive activities, light refreshments and social connections through artistic expression. Open to 2SLGBTQI+ community members and allies ages 13+ years.
- Hot Pot Talks: Queer Asian Storytelling
Friday, August 4, 6 to 9 p.m.
Richmond Cultural Centre, 7700 Minoru Gate
Join Love Intersections Co-Artistic Directors Jen Sungshine and David Ng for an interactive film screening and storytelling workshop on queer Asian futures. David and Jen will share their award-winning documentary film, “Yellow Peril: Queer Destiny” (2019), and the sequel, “Yellow Peril: Queer Futures” (2022), followed by an interactive storytelling workshop on filmmaking methodologies and community care. Open to adults and seniors.
- Pride Swim
Saturday, August 5, 9:30 to 11:30 a.m.
South Arm Outdoor Pool, 10100 South Arm Place
Celebrate Pride Week with a swim that celebrates inclusivity, equality and acceptance. Grab your swimsuit, bring your friends and loved ones, and join an unforgettable session of aquadance performances, energetic dancing, and a whole lot of pride! Open to all ages.
For a full list of Pride Week events and activities, visit www.richmond.ca/pride.