Surrey groups joined over 150 entries in the Vancouver Pride Parade as thousands gathered to celebrate love, identity, and inclusion on August 3.
Massive Turnout at 47th Annual Parade
Hundreds of thousands of people gathered in downtown Vancouver on Sunday, August 3, for the 47th annual Vancouver Pride Parade—a colourful and inclusive celebration of 2SLGBTQ+ communities across Canada. The highly anticipated event featured more than 150 floats and walking groups representing non-profits, businesses, schools, and politicians, marking one of the largest Pride celebrations in the country.
Surrey-Based Groups Highlight Inclusivity
Surrey was well-represented in the parade, with several local institutions participating. These included the Surrey School District, Kwantlen Polytechnic University (KPU), and Sher Vancouver—a Surrey-based non-profit dedicated to supporting marginalized queer and trans South Asians.
“Pride is about truth, joy, and showing up for those who can’t,” said Sher Vancouver founder Alex Sangha. “We march for visibility, for community, and in solidarity with oppressed people around the world.”
Sher Vancouver plans to continue its Pride presence with appearances at Langley Pride (Aug. 9), New Westminster Pride (Aug. 16), and Delta Pride (Aug. 17). The group also took part in the Surrey Pride Festival earlier in June.
University Volunteers Support Pride Bursary
Kwantlen Polytechnic University, through its Office of Equity and Inclusive Communities, contributed to the celebration as the event’s “toonie brigade.” University volunteers collected public donations for the Vancouver Pride Society’s bursary fund, which supports 2SLGBTQ+ community initiatives across the region.
Parade Route and Festivities
The parade began at 1 p.m. from Pacific Boulevard near Griffiths Way and stretched 2.2 kilometres through downtown Vancouver, culminating at the Davie Village Pride Festival. The street festival returned after a six-year hiatus, bringing together diverse groups for a day of music, art, and family-friendly celebration.
“After years apart, the return of the Davie Village street festival is a testament to the strength of our community,” said Morgane Oger, Secretary of the Vancouver Pride Society.
National Support and Surprise Guests
The event saw participation from political leaders at every level, including a surprise appearance by Prime Minister Mark Carney, who joined attendees in recognizing Pride as both a celebration and a continued call for equity.
A Celebration with Global Resonance
Speakers and participants throughout the parade underscored the global dimensions of Pride. “We remember those who cannot march,” added Sangha, highlighting 2SLGBTQ+ communities facing persecution worldwide. The Vancouver Pride Parade continues to serve as a beacon of hope and visibility for queer individuals both in Canada and beyond.
