Black Lives Matter march aims to bring politics back to Pride

By

VANCOUVER (NEWS 1130) – Hundreds of people have turned out for a political, anti-police Pride march in Vancouver.

March on Pride has been hailed as an LGBTQ/2S march against oppression, and a protest against a decision to let police continue marching in the city’s annual Pride Parade in August.

Cicely Blain is an organizer with Black Lives Matter, and says it was important there were no police taking part in March on Pride.

“Pride itself started as a riot and a protest against police so it doesn’t make sense for them now be inside the parade covered in rainbows pretending to celebrate with us.”

“Police represent histories of violence and brutality towards black people and indigenous people and different people of colour both in Canada, the US, across the globe.”

Blain says the parade also ensures black and indigenous queer, trans and two-spirit people have their voices heard, in a way the City parade doesn’t.

“Pride was started by people of colour, trans people of colour especially, those people deserve to have space at the centre of those movements.”

Anthony Di Stefano was one of hundreds taking part in the march.

“I thought it was an excellent opportunity to do two things that are very close to me which is like to celebrate black lives and celebrate queer lives and identifying as queer myself I thought it was an excellent time to enjoy this beautful day and be outside do something constructive and fun,” he said.

Cadence Rush was another who attended.

“I think it’s just a more inclusive, open space for queer and trans people.”

The March on Pride took place at Emery Barnes Park before moving up Davie St and ending at Alexandra Park.

 

Top Stories

Top Stories

Most Watched Today