Today people from all over the Lower Mainland will gather to take part in the Vancouver Pride parade, a celebration of the 2SLGBTQAI+ community, and a reflection of the rights of Canadians to live their most authentic lives free from hate or prejudice.

The Honourable Janet Austin had the privilege to join the University of Victoria Chair in Transgender Studies to walk in the Victoria Pride parage on July 9. It was an incredible day filled with joy and celebration, and, with Macduff and Government House staff by her side, Her Honour made many new friends and had a marvelous time.

The Lieutenant Governor is an honorary patron of the Chair in Transgender Studies. The work of the Chair in fostering research and scholarship in transgender studies includes community outreach knowledge mobilization, teaching and mentoring plays an important role to provide “inspiration and hope to Trans+ people and [their] allies everywhere”.

“Pride season gives us opportunities to come together,” says Dr. Aaron Devor, the current Chair in Transgender Studies, “to celebrate the value of 2SLGBTQIA+ people and to build community among ourselves, and with our allies, so that we can continue build a more just society for all.”

Vancouver Pride typically marks the end of Pride season in British Columbia. The Honourable Janet Austin, Lieutenant Governor of British Columbia, shares her best wishes to all who mark Pride, with the hope that Pride’s message of love and unity will be shared throughout the year.