Vision
An inclusive, thriving 2SLGBTQ+ community built on respect, education, and authentic connection. Mission
To grow a vibrant network of events and programs that inspire positive change and foster a sense of belonging across York Region's nine municipalities. We strive to dispel hate and misconceptions through engaging in educational activities and collaborating with friends and allies. We a
im to create spaces to improve the quality of life for residents and visitors to ensure queer individuals can safely express themselves, celebrate diversity, and have fun. Core Values
Respect
- Embracing diversity, honouring individual identities, and fostering a region where everyone feels welcomed, valued, and safe.
- Recognizing the innate dignity of every person, regardless of who they are or whom they love. Solidarity
- Standing together with love and support to uplift, encourage, and celebrate the 2SLGBTQ+ community.
- Recognizing that no one, no matter who they are, can or should handle every problem on their own
Education
- Dedicated to meeting people where they are — emotionally and educationally — with empathy and understanding while confidently advocating for our community.
- Understanding that true acceptance stems from a genuine understanding of one another.
- Preserving and sharing the history, achievements, and struggles of queer people with future generations. Connection
- Building authentic connections that transcend gender, sexual expression, age, ethnicity, or ability.
- Hosting inclusive gatherings to nurture meaningful relationships and a sense of community throughout the region. The Evolution of York Pride
Since its inception in early 2000's, the Pride York Region has undergone a remarkable evolution. Initially organized by individual volunteer-based organizations and residents, the landscape shifted after 2005 when these groups ceased operations, leaving a void in programming. York Pride Fest was born in February 2007 through the initiative of the York Region 2SLGBTQ+ Community Outreach Project. This four-year Trillium-funded endeavour aimed to develop and support services catering to the 2SLGBTQ+ community and their families in York Region. As a coalition of local 2SLGBTQ+ service providers and community volunteers, York Pride Fest took the reins, progressively expanding the region's annual pride festival. Each year, their pride week celebrations have grown in scale and scope. From an initial offering of three events in 2007 to a robust lineup of seven by 2010, the festival witnessed a threefold increase in attendance and a doubling of awareness display venues. Participating in Toronto's annual Pride parade from 2008 onwards, York Pride Fest bolstered visibility for York Region's 2SLGBTQ+ community. A watershed moment arrived in 2013 with the staging of York Region's inaugural Pride Parade along Richmond Hill's Yonge Street. Featuring 30 groups, 15 floats, and over 250 participants, it marked a milestone in the region's LGBTQ+ history. In 2015, York Pride Fest became a federal not-for-profit, and the official next phase of expansions began. From 2015 to 2017, York Pride Fest began the rebranding process to York Pride, which remains the legal operating name of the organization. The journey to inclusivity continued, and municipalities progressively began embracing Pride. From three towns flying rainbow flags in 2009 to a historic moment in 2020 when all nine municipalities proudly displayed the Pride flag, York Pride Fest's efforts bore fruit. Today, York Pride stands as a testament to the resilience and unity of York Region's 2SLGBTQ+ community, as 35,000+ residents and tourists take part in regional events year-round. With ongoing support from all nine municipalities and the regional government, their mission remains steadfast: to illuminate the past, celebrate the present, and pave the way for a more inclusive future. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to the community for their unwavering support. With love,
York Pride
