11 activists, performers and community members on the importance of Pride 2016

Back in the 1700s, Voltaire was onto something when he said “we are rarely proud when we are alone.” This idea remains true for many lesbian, gay, transgender, bisexual, queer or questioning folk who spend their pre- and post-coming out years dealing with shame. To this day, LGBTQ+ community members around the world have to face harrowing opposition and debilitating self-doubt simply because they do not reflect the heterosexual status quo. So much of their oppression comes from family or friends and often stems from the same religious, cultural or spiritual systems they grew up with.

Pride month—which aims to honor those who have helped us retain civil rights for the LGBTQ+ community—is a beacon for those who can’t do it alone. It is about celebrating the dedicated activism associated with people who have supported, respected, guarded or commemorated the LGBTQ+ community in various ways. As one of the biggest urban centres in Canada, Toronto has a longstanding history with Pride and can be counted as one of the best LGBTQ+ host cities in the world. To date, it has brought in more than 1.2 million attendees. On the heels of this weekend’s inaugural Lesbian, Transgender and Gay Pride Parades, we tracked down a few stylish LGBTQ+ members who speak to the politics and pathos behind this epic party.

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