FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
CALGARY, AB — [July 31st, 2026] — Calgary Pride announced today that, for the first time since 2023, political parties will be welcome to apply to participate in Calgary Pride Week activities, including the annual Calgary Pride Parade.
Since 2019, Political Parties’ participation in Pride events have varied from year to year based on safety, security and community consultation. This year, Calgary Pride’s Staff and Board underwent extensive discussions around the changing political landscape and the desire to celebrate policy makers who are supportive of 2SLGBTQIA+ rights in Canada.
Calgary Pride states, “Our commitment is first and foremost to the 2SLGBTQIA+ community. Political Entities are here to support – not shape – our mission.”
Political Parties and Politicians wishing to march in the annual Parade or participate in other Calgary Pride Week activities must submit an application, which will be reviewed by Calgary Pride’s Sponsorship Advisory Committee before participation is confirmed. Eligibility criteria include, but are not limited to, a demonstrated record of progressing the rights of marginalized communities – including advocacy for Indigenous communities, and formal, public policies that support 2SLGBTQIA+ individuals. The full criteria and the application form can be found on Calgary Pride’s website.
“It’s a scary time to be a queer person, and we want to make sure that we are celebrating and standing up for – and with – those who stand up for us when we need it most,”
said Riley Sogge, Co-Chair of Calgary Pride.
The goal of Calgary Pride’s new Politics & Pride Policy is to balance community safety, inclusion, accountability, and Pride’s role as a space for celebration and visibility. The Sponsorship Committee’s thorough review is designed to ensure that any participating political entity demonstrates a record and commitment consistent with the values of Calgary’s 2SLGBTQIA+ community.
Applications are currently open and ongoing, and will close on Monday, August 17th, 2026. Details on the application process, criteria, and timeline can be accessed via Calgary Pride’s website.
Calgary Pride will not provide additional comment beyond this statement at this time, as staff and board members remain focused on delivering Pride Week.
