What Pride means to me #VanPride 2010

Vancouver’s Pride is one of those celebrations that has a lot of meaning to me. It’s not only about the awesome parade, the costumes, the music, the dancing and the after party. For me, Pride is about acceptance. Pride is a celebration of a society that doesn’t care who you love and what your sexuality is, but accepts you for who you are. Pride is all about community and sharing.

Pride Vancouver 2010 was, to me, a lot about friendships, new and old.

With Caroline McGillivray broadcasting live from the CiTR 101.9 FM (CiTR is UBC’s radio station). I was interviewed by Caroline for Sexy in VanCity Radio.

With Mark Robins and his partner David (from GayVancouver.Net). I want to thank David and Mark especially for opening their home to me and making me part of their Pride celebration. It would have been much less of an experience if I hadn’t hung out with them during Pride.

I spent much of my evening and afternoon with Minna Van, Jay Catalan (The Network Hub), Don and Alisha Mann (amVentures) (and about 5 minutes with Josh Rimer). These folks really enriched my Pride experience. Also, good times at Speakeasy. I never thought that bar was so good! The service was simply top-notch, even though they were swamped with people! And the food was good, the drinks were great.

Thanks also to Russ Benger and Gus Fosarolli, two of my closest friends, for joining me for part of the Parade and lunch at Urban Burger (blog post forthcoming). Gus and Russ are pretty much part of my family and I love spending momentous occasions with them.

This Pride was amazing to me, and I am grateful to each and every one of the folks who made it so amazing for me. Much love always. And Vancouver, Happy Pride!