Calgary Pride is dedicated to ensuring that our celebrations reflect the values, concerns, and experiences of our community. Each year, our volunteer Sponsorship Advisory Committee reviews our sponsor and parade applications to assess whether organizations align with Calgary Pride’s values and to consider the broader impact of their actions.
The University of Calgary’s application to participate as an institution in the 2026 Calgary Pride Parade has been declined. This decision applies only to the 2026 parade. The University may apply through the standard process in 2027.
The decision reflects community concerns about the University’s response to the pro-Palestinian encampment that was forcibly removed from campus in 2024, and the broader impact of these events on the community after a court case was filed in 2026. Calgary Pride considers the impact of any active court cases as well as other community concerns when reviewing institutional participation.
This decision was not directly impacted by the Government of Alberta’s Bill 29, the Fairness in Sport Act. The legislation was enacted by the provincial government, and institutions are legally required to comply with it. Calgary Pride will continue to stand alongside our Two Spirit, Transgender, and Non-Binary neighbours in condemning the invocation of the Notwithstanding Clause to pass Bills 26, 27, and 29, which target our community. You can learn more about Calgary Pride’s statement in this article.
This decision applies only to the University of Calgary’s institutional participation and branding. Students, alumni, unions, faculty associations, and campus advocacy groups may join independently, so long as they do not use official University logos or represent themselves as acting on behalf of the University of Calgary’s administration.
You can read more about Calgary Pride’s Ethical Sponsorship Commitment on this page.
