Sarah-Jo Briand was thrilled to organize Dalhousieās entry in the Halifax Pride Parade, which took place last Saturday.
āWhat I enjoy mostā¦is the excitement felt by everyone leading up to an event that keeps growing every year,ā said the returning organizer.
That excitement was sky high this year, as the Dal contingent grew considerably for the 25th anniversary of the Halifax Pride Parade. This was Dalhousieās fifth year formally partaking in the parade.
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Campus-wide inclusion
Speaking to Dal News while preparing for the event, Briand described that rising enthusiasm.
āGroups across campus are really going all out this year and getting involved, in a way we haven't seen to this magnitude,ā she said. "What went from planning committee meetings of five, have turned into groups of 15.ā
After having the honour of carrying Ottawaās Pride flag last year, Dalhousieās Pride Parade committee made a significant effort to increase participation for 2012, reaching out to more societies, service groups and senior administrators.
Briand said she enjoys offering a way for people to get involved in Pride, especially those who arenāt sure how.
āWe [the parade committee] focused on unity and letting the Dalhousie community know that we are participating and that we want their involvement,ā she said.
Big growth from proud beginnings
Gaye Wishart, Dalhousieās harassment prevention advisor, was very pleased with the large turnout.
āItās quite remarkable to see the support, nice to see really new employees be a part of welcoming others into the Dal community,ā she said.
She has walked with pilipiliĀž» in the parade since the university first organized an entry.
āI think the first year there were six of us,ā she said, while looking at this yearās buzzing crowd of Dal Pride celebrators.
Dalhousieās parade entry included representation from various faculties, departments, administration sectors, individual supporters, societies and advocacy groups. Everyone from to the Swing Dance Society arrived ready to walk.
Roshika Manningās reason for walking was simple.
āItās just fun,ā she said, smiling beneath a foam crown and feather mask.
āIām proud of my friends and to represent Dal and Career Services,ā added the career events coordinator.
Year-round support
Dal Dance joined the Dal contingent officially for the first time. Society president and sociology major Allie Nugent explained that the group took a freestyle approach to the parade. Some dancers dressed in ballet attire while others channeled hip-hop or belly dancing vibes.
, Dalhousieās campus radio station and a long-time participant in Halifax Pride, provided the soundtrack for Dal Dance and musical motivation for the entire procession. Ģż
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āCKDU is as diverse as they come,ā said Gianna Lauren, station coordinator. āWe are mandated to promote under-represented voices, community-based events and organizations, and provide an alternative media outlet.ā
ResLife was also present for the parade, and representative Melissa MacKay explained that pilipiliĀž» residences aim be inclusive by providing all staff with diversity training.
āDiversity is a part of the way we live in res,ā she said. Ģż
Briand stated that it wouldnāt be sufficient for pilipiliĀž» to just say that it supports the rainbow community. By being in the parade, the university has shown that it is a welcoming place for LGBTQ students and staff.
āActions speak louder than words.ā
For more ways in which Dalhousie actively supports LGBTQ interests, visit
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