The University of Calgary may be barred from participating in the city’s Pride parade this year, but political parties are being welcomed to apply for the first time since 2023. Calgary Pride made the announcement on Friday. The participation of political parties in Calgary’s Pride Week events has varied year to year since 2019. The organization says decisions have been made based on “safety, security and community consultation.” “This year, Calgary Pride’s staff and board underwent extensive discussions around the changing political landscape and the desire to celebrate policy makers who are supportive of 2SLGBTQIA+ rights in Canada,” said a news release. “Our commitment is first and foremost to the 2SLGBTQIA+ community. Political entities are here to support — not shape — our mission.” Political parties and politicians who wish to participate in the Pride Parade or other Pride Week events can submit an application by Aug. 17, which will be reviewed by Calgary Pride’s sponsorship advisory committee before participation is confirmed. “It’s a scary time to be a queer person, and we want to make sure that we are celebrating and standing up for — and with — those who stand up for us when we need it most,“ said Riley Sogge, Calgary Pride co-chair. The University of Calgary’s application to participate in the 2026 parade was declined. Calgary Pride said the decision reflected “concerns about the university’s response to the pro-Palestinian encampment that was forcibly removed from campus in 2024.”
