On Sunday, July 28th, a proud team of Covenant House Vancouver (CHV) staff participated in the 41st annual Pride Run and Walk event that took place in the scenic Coal Harbour area. The Pride Run and Walk is an inclusive event for the 2SLGBTQAI+ community, their friends, and allies.
The event is hosted by Vancouver Frontrunners and consists of a 5k run/walk and a 10k run/race (participants in the 10k run are timed using chips).
Representing CHV was an interdepartmental team of approximately 17 staff members who called themselves the Covenant House Hurriers.
Before the event, we asked one of the Hurriers some questions around Pride and this event. This is what they shared with us.
What does Pride mean to you?
Supporting and celebrating everyone’s unique self-expression and identity.
What do you think are some of the biggest societal challenges for queer youth?
Exclusion, discrimination, and judgement.
Why have you decided to participate in the Pride Run and Walk?
I am an ally! I am proud to support my friends, family, peers, and strangers. Everyone is deserving of love and acceptance.
Why are events like this important?
They shine light on a space of support for individuals who are fearful of expressing their true selves.
What do you wish people outside of the 2SLGBTQAI+ community would understand about Pride, and the 2SLGBTQAI+ community?
Pride is about celebrating everyone. You can be proud of who you are and support others who choose to express themselves differently.
What message would you like to share with the 2SLGBTQAI+ community?
Continue to be your wonderful self, always.
Thank you to the Covenant House Hurriers and to all of the teams and individuals who supported this event and the 2SLGBTQAI+ community! Together, we can make a difference.