Calgary Pride parade 2015
Thousands turned up for the annual Calgary Pride parade, despite cold, wet weather
Thousands braved cold, wet weather on Sunday to take in the 2015 Calgary Pride parade.
The annual event — which this year included 160 groups in the parade — features colourful costumes, lots of music and, these days, more than a few politicians.
It has grown from humble beginnings when a hearty few gathered for the first event in 1990, some of whom covered their faces for fear of reprisals. These days it's a week-long event featuring a festival, dances, talks and more.
For the first time this year, the transgender flag flew out front of City Hall to coincide with the Dyke and Trans* march on Saturday.
Politicians
There were also more politicians about over the weekend, particularly at the Premier's pride brunch on Saturday. Rachel Notley could only make an appearance over video, but Wildrose leader Brian Jean was there.
"The world is changing," said Jean. "My view 10 years ago is not the same view I have today, and I think that's the same case with many people."
The brunch is a fundraiser for Camp fYrefly, an LGBT youth camp. Renee Mailloux was a camper this year and while she's happy to see so many politicians showing support she says it's not enough.
"Let's be real here, we live in Alberta where it's still not as accepting as other parts of the country," she said. "We still have a long way to go."