Free to be

Dal folks show off their rainbow colours during last year's Pride Parade. (Bruce Bottomley Photo)

Show your pride!

Members of the Dalhousie community, including Dal Allies, Dal-Out, the Dalhousie Student Union (DSU), CKDU, Human Rights, Equity & Harassment Prevention, Residence Life and Athletics, are taking part in the Pride Parade on Saturday, July 24. The Dal bus will be in the parade too, so those who don't think they can walk the whole route can hop aboard.

This year with the theme Free to Be, the parade is the fourth largest in Canada and has been designated a Hallmark event by Halifax Regional Municipality.

(The website for details on where and when to marshal for the parade are at http://halifaxpride.org/events.php?date=2010-07-24). Dal folks should expect to gather after 11:30 a.m. at Cornwallis and Upper Water Street.

Participation in the pride parade demonstrates an active support for the Rainbow community at Dalhousie and in the larger community.

"We encourage you to show your support for our diverse campus community," says Michael Gillis, Dal Ally peer advisor. "You are not 'outing' yourself by marching in the parade because the parade is open to the LGBTTQ community and allies/supporters. As well, your family and friends are more than welcome to march with us. The more the merrier!"

Last year, about 50-60,000 spectators lined the route and, this year, many more are expected. 

Participants can be involved as much or as little as they choose. Dal T-shirts in an assortment of rainbow colors have been ordered to show solidarity.

"You can also dress up, carry posters or flags, shout pride cheers, and create lots of noise and excitement," adds Mr. Gillis. "Be sure to wear comfortable shoes and sunscreen, or raingear, depending on the weather."

For more info, please contact mgillis6@dal.ca.