Richmond residents and community members are invited to celebrate Pride Week from Monday, July 29 through Sunday, August 4 with free activities and events for all ages. Events offered by the City of Richmond, in partnership with Community Associations and Societies and the Richmond Public Library, include printmaking and zine-making workshops, fitness classes and talks with leaders from the 2SLGBTQI+ community. In addition, the Progress Pride Flag will be displayed at City Hall during Pride Week in support of Richmond’s 2SLGBTQI+ communities.
The theme for this year’s Pride Week in Richmond is “Pride Together”, which symbolizes the power of community spirit in fostering a city where everyone feels a sense of belonging.
“The City of Richmond is a welcoming, inclusive city that is proud to support and celebrate our 2SLGBTQI+ communities,” said Mayor Malcolm Brodie. “Pride Week is an opportunity to showcase our spirit and promote inclusion and belonging. We encourage everyone to participate in the many activities across Richmond and be a part of celebrating the diversity in our community.”
There are over 20 Pride Week events happening at City and partner sites across Richmond. The programs and events planned are open to all residents, community members and visitors, and feature local leaders, artists and community members.
Some highlights of the week include:
Drag Queen Karaoke
Tuesday, July 30, 5:45-8:00pm
Celebrate the power of pride by standing in the spotlight or taking in the tunes while enjoying light refreshments. Open to 2SLGTBQI+ community members and allies 13+ years.
East Richmond Community Hall, 12360 Cambie Road
Branscombe House Art Workshop Series: Pride Summer
Wednesday, July 31, 4:30-6:00pm and 6:30-8:00pm
Explore various meanings of home and belonging at this free printmaking tote bag workshop with Branscombe House artist-in-resident Peisen Ding. Open to 2SLGBTQI+ community members and allies 16+ years, with instruction offered in English and Mandarin.
Branscombe House, 4900 Steveston Highway
Pride Swim
Saturday, August 3, 9:30-11:30am
Grab a swimsuit and friends and loved ones for an unforgettable, free session of aquadance performances, energetic dancing and a whole lot of pride celebrating inclusivity, equality and acceptance. Open to all ages.
South Arm Outdoor Pool, 10100 South Arm Place
Stories Told With Pride: A Dialogue with Dr. Marylee Stephenson
Sunday, August 4, 2:00-3:00pm
Learn about Dr. Stephenson's rich history as an activist, storyteller, stand-up comic and key figure in Vancouver's gay rights movement through a Q&A and storytelling experience. Open to all ages.
Richmond Public Library (Brighouse Branch), 100-7700 Minoru Gate
For a full list of Pride Week events and activities, visit richmond.ca/pride.