I am inviting you to Richmond’s first Pride Walk on Saturday, July 29th from 11am-12pm.
The Walk will take place along the Steveston boardwalk beginning in front of my office at Imperial Landing. You can help!
Consider printing and posting our Pride poster to promote attendance. Also, ask people to RSVP with our office on Eventbrite.
Richmond needs visible support for inclusion. I am the first female Member of the Legislative Assembly of BC for the Richmond-Steveston riding and a graduate of local Richmond public schools. Throughout my time living in Richmond and being in elected office, I have heard from residents that Richmond lacks sense of belonging for many queer folks and Richmond needs to do better in recognizing our local 2SLGBTQIA+ (Two Spirit, Lesbian, Gay Bisexual, Transgender, Queer, Intersex, Asexual) community, from visibility to consultations relating to policy planning. In my work, I’m passionate about bridging cultural silos, enhancing public education, and encouraging girls, women, and gender-diverse people to leadership roles.
I understand that though it’s just one avenue, a pride event that is community-driven and has local leaders’ support builds trust and connection for our marginalized community members and sends a message of solidarity throughout Richmond.
I had one experience while in elected office I want to share. On a shopping trip ahead of the Richmond rainbow crosswalk unveiling, I spoke with a young store clerk who became overcome with emotions learning about this first-of-its-kind City queer initiative and they shared with me that because they fulfill all of their queer community needs in Vancouver, they did not feel that Richmond where they live and work was a very queer-positive space. This young Richmond resident is asking for change.
From transphobic speakers at school board meetings to attacks on drag queen school engagements across B.C., including in Richmond, this Richmond resident’s words speak volumes and our empathy should drive action.
We hope you join MLA Aman Singh, MLA Henry Yao and me on Saturday July 29th.
Warm regards,
Kelly
Route below:
Poster file below:
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