October 1, 2021 • OTTAWA, ONTARIO
It is with a mix of sadness and gratitude that the Board of Directors announces Osmel B. Guerra Maynes departure as Executive Director of Capital Pride. Osmel has played a critical role in the development and success of the organization, and while we will miss him and his inspiring leadership, we wish him the best of luck in his new endeavour as the Director of Community Engagement, Social Programs, and Inclusion at HQ Toronto, a centre of excellence in gay men’s health, providing tailored mental health services, sexual health services, and community/social programming.

We want to thank him for his dedicated service, which involved many significant accomplishments. Some of his most notable achievements include the execution of Capital Pride’s Strategic Plan 2021-2023, successfully increasing and diversifying the organization’s revenue, launching incredible virtual programming throughout the pandemic, and amplifying BIPOC and marginalized community members.

During this transition period, it is our priority to find the best individual to lead, while still maintaining a stable and effective organization. As such, the Board of Directors is committed to engaging in a recruitment process to find Capital Pride’s next Executive Director. Until a new Executive Director can be recruited, Toby Whitfield has graciously agreed to return to the helm of the organization on a temporary basis. Toby is very familiar with Capital Pride, having served as the Chairperson of the Board of Directors and as the Festival Director for the 2019 Summer Pride Festival. We are confident that Toby will be able to ensure a smooth transition and lead the organization into success while we search for a permanent Executive Director.

Again, we cannot thank Osmel enough for the dedication, passion, enthusiasm, and motivation he has given to Capital Pride. Osmel will be greatly missed by the staff, Board members, and partners alike. We look forward to following the success of his career and are hopeful and excited for the next chapter of Capital Pride as we continue to support 2SLGBTQ+ communities within the National Capital Region.

Any questions regarding this transition process can be forwarded to Geneviève Colverson, Chairperson of the Board of Directors, by email at [email protected].

About Capital Pride
Capital Pride creates opportunities to celebrate, advocate, educate and connect people, respecting the full diversity of the 2SLGBTQ+ community in Canada’s national capital region. For further details please visit capitalpride.ca.

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Capital Pride issued the following statement in response to an apparent act of vandalism of the Rainbow Crosswalk on Bank Street:

Hate-motivated acts of vandalism have no place in our community.

Today’s news that the rainbow crosswalks at Bank Street and Somerset Street appear to have been vandalised overnight is deeply troubling. While the incident continues to be investigated, it follows a disturbing trend of vandalism of pride symbols – and particularly of rainbow crosswalks – across the country, including in Wasaga Beach, Gananoque, Vancouver, Lethbridge, Nanaimo, Prescott, and Barrie.

As we reflect on the many important discussions taking place this week, it remains important to recognise that members of the the 2SLGBTQ+ community have long been victims of violence, as have Indigenous peoples, racialized communities, immigrants, religious groups and many others. This act reminds us of the need to continue to challenge and resist all forms of oppression, including homophobia and transphobia, wherever they may arise.

The theme of this year’s Pride celebrations, We Still Demand, is meant as both a reminder of the work that remains to be done to achieve full equality for 2SLGBTQ+ people in Canada, and a call-to-action for community members and allies alike to take a stand when they witness these types of hate-motivated incidents.

As the community joins together to celebrate the 2021 Capital Pride Festival, we remain committed to our efforts to build a more inclusive community.

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Capital Pride is pleased to announce plans to host its TD Spectacular event in-person on the Great Lawn at Lansdowne Park. The event is all ages and takes place Sunday, August 29, 2021 from 3:00pm – 10:00pm. It will include a mix of live and virtual performances, a beer garden and food trucks. The event will be smaller than recent in-person Capital Pride festivals, with limited capacity and COVID safety guidelines in place.

“We are proud to host this event and create an opportunity for the community to come together and reconnect after a challenging 18 months,” said Osmel B. Guerra Maynes, Capital Pride Executive Director. “While Pride has never been cancelled, we recognize the challenge of creating community with virtual programming and are excited to invite folks to celebrate in person with us this year while we look to a bigger event in 2022”

TD Spectacular will be hosted virtually by Priyanka, Canada’s Drag Race Winner and includes live performances by DJ Sandy Duperval, Kiki Coe and Adrianna Exposee, and virtual performances by The Peptides and Vales of Bollywood. Further performers will be announced in the coming week.

Capital Pride has developed a COVID safety plan with guidance from local public health officials. Attendees will be required to complete a COVID screening questionnaire upon arrival and wear a face mask in high traffic service areas such as the bar and washroom facilities. Capacity at the event will be limited and social distancing will be in place throughout the site, with the public encouraged to make use of the large outdoor green space. Attendees must sign-up for free tickets, which will be available at capitalpride.ca starting Monday, August 16, 2021.

“We will be asking the public, volunteers, performers and vendors to all play their part in following our COVID wise plans”, continued Guerra Maynes.“At the same time, Capital Pride is continuing to offer a wide range of virtual events, recognizing that some folks may not be ready to celebrate in person.”

About Capital Pride
Capital Pride creates opportunities to celebrate, advocate, educate and connect people, respecting the full diversity of the 2SLGBTQ+ community in Canada’s national capital region. The 2021 Capital Pride Festival takes place August 23-29, 2021 and includes a mix of virtual and in-person programming. A full list of events and programming is available at capitalpride.ca.

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Ottawa, Ontario – Capital Pride is excited to bring you the 2021 Capital Pride Festival presented by TD Bank Group, taking place August 22 – 29, 2021. This year’s festival will include both virtual and in person, allowing participants to enjoy programming at home and outdoors. This year’s celebrations, themed “We Still Demand!”, honours the first large-scale queer rights demonstration in Canada that took place in 1971. On the 50th anniversary of the iconic protest, we remember all the voices that helped us achieve and enjoy the rights and freedoms we cherish today.

“Pride is not cancelled; Pride will never be cancelled! We are working hard to bring an energetic and educational Capital Pride Festival that celebrates what we have overcome as a community, while educating and advocating for the work that lies ahead,” said Osmel B. Guerra Maynes, Executive Director of Capital Pride.

The festival builds upon Capital Pride’s prior educational programming and includes panel discussions on a variety of issues facing our community. We are also excited to welcome Dominique Jackson, Star of FX TV’s Pose and Starz TV’s American Gods; Rodney Diverlus, a movement artist, performance-maker, artivist, and co-founder of Black Lives Matter — Canada; Danny Ramadan, a Syrian Canadian award-winning novelist; and jaye Simpson a two -Spirit Oji-Cree of the Buffalo Clan with roots in Sapotaweyak and Skownan Cree nation who often writes about being queer in the welfare system, as well as being queer and indigenous.

Our annual Parade will be presented virtually and aims to capture the energy that is expected of Pride. This event will be broadcasted on Rogers TV with Scarlett Bobo (Canada Drag Race finalist) and Ottawa’s very own Sandra from KISS 103.5 FM hosting the parade. In partnership with the United Way East Ontario and Gen Next, Community Builders Awards will be presented to 2SLGBGTQ+ Community leaders who have made an impact in our communities.

Capital Pride is proud to have curated a list of local and regional 2SLGBTQ+ artisans and community vendors that will be participating in our Virtual Queer Market. Delivered in an innovative 3D format, the market can be visited on any computer, smartphone or tablet.

Of course, it wouldn’t be Pride without some fabulous drag performers! This year we are thrilled to be providing opportunities to local drag performers as well as welcoming drag performers from across the country and around the world to our virtual stage. This year’s Pride Pageant features 11 competitors from the National Capital Region competing to be 2021 Capital Pride Royalty. The festival also includes a drag cooking show, drag bingo with Kandy Muse (finalist on RuPaul’s Drag Race Season 13), panel discussion about mental health hosted by 2020 Mr. Capital Pride Cyril Cinder.

Two in-person events are taking place. Our inaugural drag brunch will be hosted by La La Ri (Miss Congeniality & Contestant on RuPaul’s Drag Race Season 13). The 2SLGBTQ+ Human Rights Vigil will return in person and centres 2-Spirit and indigiqueer voices. Further opportunities for in-person programming continue to be explored.

We also would like to thank our sponsors for this year’s festival. Presenting Sponsor: TD Bank Group; Champion Sponsors: Rogers Communications (Rogers TV, KISS 105.3 FM, CityNews 101.1 FM), Loblaws Inc., IBM, Narcity, Air Canada; Advocate sponsors: Giant Tiger, Vizzy Seltzer, ViiV Healthcare, Skip the Dishes; Unifier sponsors: Nokia Canada, KPMG, TJX Canada, Nordstrom, Point 3D; Supporter sponsors: FjallRaven, Ottawa General Hospital, The Bank Street BIA, The Home Depot, IKEA, Conseil écoles publiques de l’Est l’Ontario, The National Art Centre (NAC), The Ottawa Art Gallery (OAG)  and many more.

Visit capitalpride.ca/virtual-pride-festival/ to see what Capital Pride has in store for its 2021 virtual Festival. Stay tuned to the Capital Pride social media channels, as more exciting events and headline entertainers will be announced in the upcoming weeks. 

About Capital Pride:

Capital Pride creates opportunities to celebrate, advocate, educate and connect people, respecting the full diversity of the 2SLGBTQ+ community in Canada’s national capital region. The 2021 Capital Pride Festival takes place August 22 – 29, 2021.

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JUNE 14, 2021 ‒ Capital Pride’s mission is to create opportunities to celebrate, advocate, educate and connect people, respecting the full diversity of the 2SLGBTQ+ community. As we reflect on Pride Month, we are reminded not only of the progress we have made so far, but also of the ongoing discrimination and hate that our community still faces, especially for those who experience other intersecting forms of marginalization.

Capital Pride stands in solidarity with all those fighting for equity and justice, and we join our voices to others in the community to demand better. Fifty years ago, pioneers of the 2SLGBTQ+ movement in Canada marched to Parliament Hill to present ten demands for legal changes and policy reforms to the federal government of the day, in what would become known as the We Demand protest. As stated in the document that these activists submitted to lawmakers, “in a democratic society, if one minority is denied freedom, all citizens are oppressed.” This continues to ring true today.

Fifty years later, despite progress made in protecting fundamental rights and freedoms, grave issues still persist. That is why the theme of this year’s Capital Pride celebrations, We Still Demand, is so incredibly important. We are proud to support the launch of the Capital Pride Youth Committee’s social media campaign, #WeStillDemand, to bring attention to the ongoing challenges facing 2SLGBTQ+ youth in Canada, while also advocating for solutions to issues like the discriminatory blood ban, ongoing conversion therapy, and a lack of accessible and transaffirmative healthcare, to name but a few.

Recent events across the country—including the tragic discovery of the unmarked mass grave of 215 Indigenous children at the former Kamloops Indian Residential School on the territory of the Tk’emlúps te Secwépemc First Nation; the horrific anti-Muslim terror attack in London, Ontario; the appalling gay-bashing incident in Toronto; a recent rise in anti-Semitic and Islamphobic rhetoric and violence across the country; transphobic posters being plastered across downtown Ottawa; ongoing anti-Black discrimination and unjust systems of over-policing; and a spike in anti-Asian hate crimes—show us how much work is left to do in order for us to achieve a truly just society.

While we encourage all community members, advocates and allies to add their voices to the growing calls for change, we also recognize that these events have been incredibly traumatic for many, especially those who see their identities reflected in the horrors we’ve witnessed in the past weeks and months. For those seeking support, here are some resources that may prove helpful:

• Indian Residential School Survivors Society crisis line (available 24/7): 1-866-925-4419
• Black Youth Helpline: 1-833-294-8650 or blackyouth.ca
• Counselling connect (same or next day mental health appointments)
• Jaku Konbit: (Black youth support group): 613-567-0600
• KidsHelp phone (available 24/7): 1-800-668-6868 or text CONNECT to 686868
• Mental Health Resource Guide, Ottawa Public Health
• Ottawa Community Immigrant Services Organization (OCISO) with staff working remotely: 613-725-5671×316 or email [email protected]
• Ottawa Distress Centre: 613-238-3311
• Somali Centre for Family Services: 613-526-2075
• Youth Services Bureau (YSB) crisis line available 24/7: 613-260-2360 or chat.ysb.ca

Despite these difficult times, we will continue our march forward in the pursuit of justice and dignity for all. Though our identities and experiences may differ, our common liberation is rooted in the dismantling of unjust structures that maintain our marginalization. Together, we can celebrate our diversity in all its forms, while also advocating for equity in everything that we do – and that is something that we, at Capital Pride, promise to continue doing.

In solidarity,

Capital Pride

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If you believe in Capital Pride’s mission, if you share our vision for a truly just and equitable Canada, and if you want to contribute your time to help us achieve it, consider applying to our Board of Directors. We are seeking active members, especially of racialized and marginalized identities, to contribute their energy to continue celebrating, advocating, educating and connecting people within and beyond the 2SLGBTQ+ community.

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APR 06, 2021 • OTTAWA, ONTARIO

It is with great excitement that Capital Pride unveils the theme of this year’s celebration. “We Still Demand!, was chosen to honour the first large scale queer rights demonstration in Canada that took place in 1971. On the 50th anniversary of the iconic protest, we remember all the voices that helped us enjoy the rights and freedoms we cherish today.

Since the advent of the pandemic, Capital Pride developed a path forward for the annual festival making last year’s virtual parade a success, while adhering to all public health guidelines. Pride celebrations have always been a place of love, allyship and compassion, and we are confident that this year will be no different.

Presented by TD Bank Group, the festivities will take place from August 22 – 29, 2021, and will feature both local and international talent. Festival favourites such as the official Flag Raising, Our Voices Speaker Series, Capital Pride Pageant and of course the Virtual Parade, will continue to be delivered in new and innovative ways.

“Last year was a huge success! Although we still are not able to celebrate in person together, Capital Pride will still demand access, we still demand a voice, and we still demand love!”, said Osmel B. Guerra Maynes, Executive Director of Capital Pride.

We know that the annual summer festival is loved by many, and gives us a platform to celebrate the 2SLGBTQ+ community and our allies in the National Capital Region. Stay tuned to Capital Pride’s channels for more information on programming and events.

About Capital Pride:

Capital Pride creates opportunities to celebrate, advocate, educate and connect people, respecting the full diversity of the 2SLGBTQ+ community in Canada’s capital region.

Contacts:

Osmel B. Guerra Maynes, Executive Director

Phone: 613-680-3033 ext. 100

Email: [email protected]

Riyadh Nazerally, Director of Communications (Board of Directors)

Email: [email protected]

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The past year, in spite of all its challenges, has been a time of growth for Capital Pride. Through the past year, and especially in the last few months, the Board of Directors has been working very hard alongside the Operations team to develop a plan for its strategic direction in the coming months and years. Launching into 2021 has therefore been an exciting time for Capital Pride, especially the Board of Directors.

Capital Pride started the year with its Annual General Meeting in late January, which led to the nomination of a new Executive team for 2021. Having served as the Vice-Chair in 2020, Geneviève Colverson (she/her) was elected to the position of Chairperson and will serve in this position for 2021. Serving alongside her as the Vice-Chair is Victoria Wang (she/her), who previously served as the Director of Strategic Development. Jonathan Généreux (he/him) rounds out the current Executive in the role of Treasurer, in which he has been serving for the last several months. For more information about the members of the Board of Directors and the Executive team, please visit our website.

The Board of Directors also adopted its latest Strategic Plan for 2021 to 2023, that includes some ambitious goals and promises to continue to grow the organization with the needs of 2SLGBTQ+ communities in the National Capital Region at the forefront. Alongside this Strategic Plan, the Capital Pride Youth Committee has also launched its own Strategic Plan for the year ahead. To consult the Strategic Plan 2021-2023 and the Youth Committee’s Strategic Plan 2021, please visit our website.

In order to build on the past year’s growth and development and to implement the objectives identified in the Strategic Plan, the Board of Directives is seeking to grow its team of directors. The Board of Directors has also created a new position within the Executive team, for which it is now recruiting. The Equity & Inclusion Officer will be vital in ensuring that the principles of diversity, equity, and inclusion are central to the decisions made by the Board of Directors. If you are interested in joining the Board of Directors or for more information about the current opportunities, please see the postings on Charity Village: Equity & Inclusion Officer position and non-designated Director positions.

The Board of Directors is excited for what is to come and hopes the community will join us in continuing to celebrate, advocate, educate, and connect all members of our 2SLGBTQ+ communities!

About Capital Pride
Capital Pride creates opportunities to celebrate, advocate, educate and connect people, respecting the full diversity of the 2SLGBTQ+ community in Canada’s capital region.

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JANUARY 25, 2021 • OTTAWA, ONTARIO

To align with public health guidelines, the third annual WinterPride festival will take place online. Though there may not be opportunities to celebrate in person, we’re committed to bringing together the 2SLGBTQ+ community to celebrate our truth. Taking place from February 8-12 during Winterlude, the National Capital Region will be dazzled by virtual festive winter activities, performances, and much more.

“I’m thrilled to announce that the Capital Pride team has been hard at work – creating a great lineup that will be sure to put a smile across your face during these difficult times. WinterPride 2021 may be virtual, but we guarantee that you’ll be entertained!”

OSMEL GUERRA MAYNES, CAPITAL PRIDE EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

WinterPride 2021 – Virtual Events

Start your engines racers, because WinterPride 2021 is bringing back our signature event, It’s Drag Henny hosted virtually by Bob The Drag Queen, Winner of RuPaul Drag Race Season 8 and Emmy nominated for her role on the HBO hit series We’re Here. This virtual show, featuring Ottawa’s drag royalty, will leave you gagged, gooped and asking for more.

Furthering our mission to create spaces for marginalized members of our community, we are excited to present Our Voices: Anti-Black Racism – A Black Queer Perspective speaker series featuring Rodney Diverlus (He/Him) and other BIPOC community leaders, Rodney is a Haitian-Canadian multi-hyphenate artist, artivist, and community activator. He is a founder of Black Lives Matter – Canada and a Director of Wildseed Centre for Art & Activism. He is author and co-editor of Canadian bestseller: “Until We are Free: Reflections on Black Lives Matter in Canada.”  

The week will also include a performance by Ottawa’s very own Kimberly Sunstrum. Already well-known in the local music scene, Kimberly’s unique blend of classic R&B, old-time country and 70’s Motown power bops is sure to soothe the soul.

Virtual Family & Youth Events

The Capital Pride Youth Committee partnered with Dress for Success to present FIERCE! Virtual First Impressions webinar. Tune in and learn how to stand out in a crowd, tips and tricks on how to find a job, and how to get noticed in a virtual world.

Youth can also participate in INStudio Winter Edition! a youth-focused art show featuring local 2SLGBTQ+ artists brought to you by the Capital Pride Youth Committee & the Ottawa Art Gallery Youth Council.

Last but not least, the whole family can get crafty with the Drag Family Hour hosted by non-binary Drag Performer and current Mx. Capital Pride Eve Anne Jellicle.

Capital Pride would like to thank our Champion Sponsor, Rogers and its affiliates Kiss 105.3, CityNews, Rogers TV and all other supporters for making this year’s festival happen.

Stay up to date on all the exciting WinterPride programming by visiting the Capital Pride Facebook page or capitalpride.ca. All events are free and can be streamed at capitalpride.ca/live. Event details will be announced in the coming days.

About Capital Pride

Capital Pride creates opportunities to celebrate, advocate, educate and connect people, respecting the full diversity of the 2SLGBTQ+ community in Canada’s Capital Region.

Contact:

Osmel B. Guerra Maynes, Executive Director

Tel: 613.680.3033 ext. 100

Email: [email protected]

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The Capital Pride Youth Committee (CPYC) is proud to present: Cafe au Gay, its first virtual coffeehouse, on January 29th, 2020! Prepare to be entertained by live performers while connecting with other 2SLGBTQ+ youth online!

The CPYC is seeking youth artists based in the National Capital Region to perform at Cafe au Gay. All kinds of performers are welcome, from drag, singing, slam poetry, or more! To apply, visit this link. Applications will be accepted until January 25th, 2020. All performers will be compensated with an honorarium.Limited spaces are available, so be sure to secure your spot!

We are committed to supporting and connecting with 2SLGBTQ+ youth in an accessible way. Tickets to Cafe au Gay will be available on Eventbrite at no cost. The CPYC is looking forward to connecting with the community on January 29th!

So curl up with a warm beverage and a blanket and enjoy the great youth talent we have in the NCR!
If you have any questions please contact Kaitlyn Chen.

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Miss Rona got you down this fall, Capital Pride and Google Canada are gathering the small 2SLGBTQ+ business community to talk about operating in a digital-first world helping you gain the knowledge necessary to increase productivity and build your 2SLGBTQ+ small business.

Join us October 27th -November 12th for 2SLGBTQ+ Small Business Digital Skills Workshops hosted by Capital Pride in collaboration with Google Canada. 2SLGBTQ+ Digital Skills Workshops aims to support queer individuals, brands, and small businesses to build the necessary digital skills to succeed an increasingly digital landscape

All workshops are free and can you can register on capitalpride.ca.

Please take a look at our virtual workshops:

Tuesday: October 27
5:00 AM – 6:15 PM

Get Your Business Online: Managing your online presence

Ensure customers can find accurate, updated information about your local business on Google Search and Google Maps, no matter which device they use. This workshop includes hands-on time to build or edit a Google business profile, so you can get real- time feedback and help from Google experts.

Thursday: October 29
5:00 PM – 6:00 PM

Make Your Website Work for You: Best practices for your website

Learn how to create a search-friendly website that drives user action and supports your goals. Whether you’re launching a new website or sprucing up an old one, this workshop will help.

Tuesday: November 03
5:00 PM – 6:00 PM

Use YouTube to grow your business

Get best practices for creating a YouTube Channel and compelling video content that promotes your products and services and drives engagement with your brand.

Thursday: November 05
5:00 PM – 6:15 PM

Learn the basics of Google Ads

Discover campaign types offered in Google Ads, including features to help you reach the right audience and potential customers to meet your marketing goals.

Tuesday: November 9
5:00 PM – 6:00 PM

Optimize your energy for high performance

Learn how to more effectively balance your energy and master your time to enhance overall productivity. You will get practical guidance, resources and exercises to incorporate in work and life.

Thursday: November 12
5:00 PM – 6:00 PM

Maximize your productivity with GSuite

Make the most of your time by managing your work in Google Sheets and creating a meeting agenda in Google Docs that drives your project forward and keeps you on pace.

Capital Pride’s mission is to create opportunities to celebrate, advocate, educate and connect people, respecting the full diversity of the 2SLGBTQ+ community.

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Do you have about 10 hours a month to offer to be part of the dynamic and passionate team that provides direction and management to the largest Pride festival in the region? Do you have financial skills and expertise to lend to a 2SLGBTQ+ not-for-profit organization with a major impact? Can you help us take our organization to the next level? You may just be the ideal candidate to hold the officer position of Treasurer on the Board of Directors (the Board) of Capital Pride (the Organization)!

Capital Pride brings together a team of dedicated staff and volunteers to make the Capital Pride Summer Festival and WinterPride Festival happen each year, as well as other year-round events. The Board of Directors provides overall direction and management of the organization, including governance, policy, and financial oversight and accountability.

The organization creates opportunities to celebrate, advocate, educate and connect people, respecting the full diversity of the 2SLGBTQ+ community in Canada’s capital region – the unceded and unsurrendered traditional land of the Algonquin Anishinaabe people.

Duties

The Treasurer will be the lead in ensuring the Board can exercise its critical financial oversight and governance role, and will mainly be responsible for three broad areas:

• Budget Development: the Treasurer will coordinate with the Executive Director to develop an annual organizational budget, while ensuring that it reflects the organization’s mission, goals and objectives. The Treasurer will also review the budget and year-to-date records on a regular basis to identify risks and opportunities.
  
• Governance: the Treasurer will provide leadership on issues related to financial affairs and ensure compliance with relevant laws, rules and regulations, organizational policies, directives and Board resolutions that relate to the organization’s finances. The Treasurer will also chair the Board’s Finance Committee which meets quarterly, and will be responsible for attending monthly board meetings to provide financial reports clearly stating the financial standing of the organization.
  
• Financial Oversight and Management: the Treasurer will act as a signing authority and will be the key contact for the organization’s auditors, bank and bookkeeper. The Treasurer will also collaborate with the Executive Director in monitoring cash flow, revenue and expenses.

Requirements and Desired Skills

The ideal candidate will have financial management experience in a not-for-profit or similarly sized organization and can confidently assume the role of Treasurer, providing the necessary financial leadership. This means that the candidate will likely have:

• Minimum of 3 years experience in financial management and/or leadership;
• Strong understanding of nonprofit organizational governance and related laws and regulations;
• Familiarity with the National Capital Region’s 2SLGBTQ+ community, including community organizations and groups;
• Experience with non-profit budget development (Capital Pride’s 2019 budget: ~$700,000) and financial reporting to a Board of Directors;
• Demonstrable experience using Quickbooks or similar accounting software; and
• Reside in the National Capital Region (Ottawa-Gatineau).
  
• Previous experience serving on a board of directors is strongly desired.
• CPA designation is strongly desired.
• Ability to communicate in both official languages is desired.

To apply, please submit a cover letter and resume that outlines what motivates you to be involved, as well as the experience and skills you will bring to Capital Pride to [email protected]. The position will remain open until an ideal candidate is found.

Capital Pride is committed to the principles of equity, diversity and inclusion. Applications from all qualified candidates are welcome and, in particular, applications are encouraged from members of the 2SLGBTQ+ community, racialized persons, Indigenous peoples, people with disabilities, persons living with HIV, newcomers, women and francophones.

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As previously announced, Capital Pride’s 2020 summer festival will take place online under the theme: “Wherever we are”. Capital Pride’s team has been hard at work thinking of various ways for 2SGLBTQ+ communities to be able to show their true colours during these difficult times. Though there may not be opportunities to celebrate in person, 2SLGBTQ+ communities will forever be proud and celebrate, “wherever we are”. Capital Pride’s Virtual Festival takes place August 23 through 30, 2020.

Thanks to the generosity of the festival’s Presenting Sponsor TD Bank, Champion Sponsor Rogers, and many other supporters, Capital Pride will be showcasing a full program of exciting online events and even a drive in drag show! Get ready for the Queer Talent Extravaganza, QTBIPOC DJ FYAH Battle, and our highly anticipated annual Capital Pride Pageant.

Virtual Pride will also feature the National Capital Region’s 2SLGBTQ+ performers and artists and will include some of the biggest names from the hit TV series RuPaul’s Drag Race! This year, viewers will be able to vote for their favourite contestants on capitalpride.ca, with the finalists competing head-to-head for the Capital Pride 2020 titles!

“I am so excited for this year’s virtual Pride festival. We have worked so hard to make sure that we are putting our community first, and showing our true colours, wherever we are.”

Osmel Guerra Maynes, Capital Pride Executive Director

Capital Pride’s 2020 Grand Marshals will be the region’s 2SLGBTQ+ health workers.

“Capital Pride is deeply grateful to all of the healthcare workers who are working tirelessly to help keep our communities safe.”

Davy Sabourin, Capital Pride Chairperson

Capital Pride recognizes that Pride is more than just a festival; it allows individuals in our communities to be proud of living their truth in a world that at times isn’t accepting of who they are. Everyone is welcomed to join the 2020 Capital Pride Summer Festival for virtual celebrations of love and progress.

Visit capitalpride.ca/2020-virtual-capital-pride-festival/ to see what Capital Pride has in store for its 2020 virtual Festival. Stay tuned to the Capital Pride social media channels, as more exciting events and headline entertainers will be announced in the upcoming weeks.

About Capital Pride

Capital Pride creates opportunities to celebrate, advocate, educate and connect people, respecting the full diversity of the 2SLGBTQ+ community in Canada’s Capital Region. Capital Pride hosts the 2020 Capital Pride Festival from August 23 to 30.

Contact:

Osmel B. Guerra Maynes, Executive Director
Tel: 613.680.3033 ext. 100
Email: [email protected]

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The Capital Pride Youth Committee (CPYC) is excited to announce the launch of their social media campaign, #PrideMatters. The initiative will celebrate the importance of the Pride movement and remind our community why it is still essential today. In the weeks leading up to the summer festival, one post will be released every Monday on Capital Pride’s official social media platforms, beginning on June 22, 2020

#PrideMatters is an opportunity for young people to take part in Capital Pride’s mission to celebrate, advocate, educate and connect members of the  2SLGBTQ+ community in its full diversity in the National Capital Region. The campaign will feature passages written by CPYC members to showcase diverse perspectives and emphasize issues that matter most to youth, including visibility and connection within the community.

“We’ve made a lot of progress in our society in terms of equality, but there is still a lot of work to do,” said David Thibodeau, Co-Chair of the CPYC. “Pride is a time for us to celebrate and reflect on those achievements, but also to remind ourselves of the work that still needs to be done. #PrideMatters because it is still as important today as it was 20 years ago; it promotes visibility and I believe that visibility is vital.”

“#PrideMatters because it helps us as 2SLGBTQ+ people connect with one another,” noted Gillian Fenwick, CPYC Liaison to Capital Pride’s Board of Directors. “By doing so, we can support 2SLGBTQ+ people across the globe, listen to the most marginalized voices in our community, and uplift those who feel alone.”

In these unprecedented times, 2SLGBTQ+ online spaces are an indispensable resource to connect our community members who would otherwise be left in the dark. Capital Pride strives to make Pride a source of strength and hope, allowing us to stand united in solidarity even while distancing ourselves physically. Members of the community are encouraged to share their own stories and commentary using the hashtag #PrideMatters. 

Find the campaign on Capital Pride’s Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook!

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Capital Pride stands in solidarity with the courageous black voices and allies denouncing and condemning anti-Black racism in the United States and here in Canada. The recent deaths of George Floyd in Minneapolis, and Regis Korchinski-Paquet, closer to home, in Toronto, have once again shed light on the continued systemic violence and oppression experienced by Black communities.

As an organization representing the 2SLGBTQ+ community in the National Capital Region, and with Pride month beginning today, June 1st, we would like to remind everyone that the queer liberation movement, as with many other human rights movements, was spurred by the activism of Black and Trans women of colour.

While we, as Canadians, take pride in having a multicultural society, we must also acknowledge and condemn the consequences of our colonial history that have created systemic barriers, hostility and violence toward Black Canadians, as well as Indigenous peoples, and people of colour.

The United Nations Working Group of Experts on People of African Descent 2016 preliminary report highlights “Canada’s history of enslavement, racial segregation, and marginalization” and its roots into anti-Black racism in Canada, leading to institutional racism, low-unemployment rates, poor health and disproportionally high incarceration rates of Black Canadians.

Let us remember that racism has no borders. It is our collective duty to dismantle racism to keep our hopes and dreams alive. The only way to do so is to ensure that we are treated fairly and equally.

Osmel B. Guerra Maynes, Capital Pride Executive Director

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Capital Pride joins the international community in recognizing the 2020 International Day Against Homophobia, Biphobia, Intersexphobia and Transphobia (IDAHOBIT).

Having its roots in a Canadian organization, Fondation Émergence, the date was officially adopted worldwide to commemorate the decision of the World Health Organization on May 17, 1990, to declassify homosexuality as a mental disorder. Since its inception, the day aims to raise awareness around the advancement of 2SLGBTQ+ rights worldwide, while also shedding light on the challenges ahead.

“As a Pride organization located in our nation’s capital, we recognize the importance of being agents of change both domestically and internationally. Our advocacy work with embassies and high commissions, political leaders and decision-makers remains an important pillar of our mandate,” said Davy Sabourin, Capital Pride Chairperson. “Today we remember those who fought for our rights, and acknowledge the road ahead for the global 2SLGBTQ+ community,” he added.

The 2020 campaign announced by Fondation Émergence is: Family support is essential. The campaign emphasizes on the importance of having a loving, caring family. Capital Pride encourages everyone, wherever they may be, to reach out to 2SLGBTQ+ members of their family to let them know how much they are loved and appreciated.

Simultaneously, the 2020 international IDAHOBIT theme is: ‘’Breaking the Silence’’. While encouraging everyone to join and support the global Pride movement, Capital Pride recognizes and denounces the fact that 2SLGBTQ+ voices in many parts of the world continue to be silenced by socioeconomic, political, legal, cultural, and institutional oppression – extensively perpetuated by state-sponsored homophobia, biphobia, intersexphobia and transphobia.

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Capital Pride recognizes that the safety and security of everyone living in the National Capital Region is essential. During these difficult times we know many people in our community, and beyond, are looking for support and guidance. Pride celebrations have always been a place of love, allyship and compassion, and we are confident that this year will be no different.

Since the declaration of the pandemic in March, Capital Pride has been hard at work developing a path forward for the annual festival, while adhering to all public health guidelines. 

Capital Pride reached a decision to deliver this year’s Pride virtually, under the theme “Wherever We Are!”. This year’s theme highlights the need for everyone to stay colourful and proud regardless of where we are physically. ‘Wherever We Are!’ highlights the reality that we are facing today. Pride isn’t just a time to party – it’s where 2SLGBTQ+ communities and allies can celebrate their true selves. Now more than ever, we must remind ourselves that we are a proud and resilient community.

The festivities will take place from August 21 – 30, and will feature both local and international talent. Festival favourites such as the official Flag Raising, Speaker Series, Capital Pride Pageant and of course the Parade, will be delivered in new and innovative ways.

More details on the timing and programming of the festival will be released in the coming weeks.

“The wellbeing of members of the 2SLGBTQ+ community remains our number one priority. Even though we are unable to celebrate in person this year, we’re looking forward to bringing people together online, through a series of exciting virtual Pride events,” said Osmel Guerra Maynes, Executive Director of Capital Pride. 

Capital Pride would also like to take this opportunity to sincerely thank 2SLGBTQ+ organizations in the National Capital Region for providing services and support to vulnerable members of our community. While the festival will take on a new format, it will continue to be a platform for our partners. Additionally, Capital Pride urges the public to support, where possible, the many queer-owned businesses, performers, and artists that are facing a challenging time.

Our community is no stranger to adversity, and we are ready to show our pride wherever we are.

Resources:

For more information regarding COVID-19, please access the following resources:

• Ottawa Public Health
• Public Health Ontario
• Health Canada

Individuals in distress or experiencing a mental health crisis can get support over the phone by calling:

• Ottawa Distress Centre 24/7 Crisis Line: 613-722-6914
• Trans Lifeline (for trans individuals): 1-877-330-6366
• LGBT Youth Line: 1-800-268-9688
• If you are in need of an emergency shelter in Ottawa: 311
• Tel-Aide Outaouais: 819-775-3223
• Écoute Entraide: 1-855-EN-LIGNE (365-4463)

About Capital Pride

Capital Pride creates opportunities to celebrate, advocate, educate and connect people, respecting the full diversity of the 2SLGBTQ+ community in Canada’s capital region.

Contacts:

Osmel B. Guerra Maynes, Executive Director

Phone: 613-680-3033 ext. 100

Email: [email protected]

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The continued spread of COVID-19 in Canada and around the world has understandably raised concerns regarding the well-being of members of the 2SLGBTQ+ community and beyond. Everyone’s safety remains Capital Pride’s top priority as this situation continues to evolve. Capital Pride will continue to align its risk assessments and practices with the latest guidance from local, provincial and federal health authorities, including the Public Health Agency of Canada.

It is with heavy heart that Capital Pride has made the decision to postpone all upcoming planned community events in order to adhere to the advice of public health authorities. However, planning for the summer festival will continue with the tentative dates of August 23-30, 2020, whether it be physical or virtual programming. Capital Pride is committed to staying in contact with community partners to ensure that everyone receives timely information regarding any changes in programming.

In order to connect members of the community during this difficult time, Capital Pride will be reaching out to local 2SLGBTQ+ performers and artists in the coming weeks to create live streamed programming that maintains social distancing measures. More details will be announced soon. 

“We are facing an unprecedented time with lots of uncertainty and many lost opportunities to socialize in queer spaces, to get together and celebrate our truth. However, our priority at this time is to ensure that we continue to support our 2SLGBTQ+ communities in the National Capital Region.”

OSmel guerra Maynes, capital pride executive director

Capital Pride thanks all 2SLGBTQ+ organizations in the National Capital Region for supporting some of the most vulnerable people in the region during their time of need. Additionally, Capital Pride urges the public to support, where possible, the many queer-owned businesses, performers, and artists that are going through a challenging time.

In these difficult times, Capital Pride calls on everyone to support one another, and to remind ourselves that we are a colourful and resilient community.

Annual General Meeting

Capital Pride’s Annual General Meeting was held virtually on March 21, where former Director of Legal and Policy, Geneviève Colverson, was elected Vice Chair. Geneviève succeeds Tara Paterson who did not stand for re-election.

“I would like to extend a sincere thank you to the Board of Directors for the opportunity to serve as the Vice Chair. I remain committed to advancing Capital Pride’s mission and I look forward to serving our community as a leader within the organization,” said Geneviève Colverson.

The 2020 Executive Officers consist of:

• Davy Sabourin, Chairperson
• Geneviève Colverson, Vice Chair
• Chris Day, Secretary
• Mandy Wilson, Community Engagement Officer

“Geneviève has done outstanding work as our Director of Legal and Policy, which I know will translate very well into her new role”, said re-elected Chairperson, Davy Sabourin. “Tara contributed significantly to Capital Pride’s advancement in 2019, and I am grateful that she will continue to serve on the Board as director-at-large to further support and contribute to our ambitious goals in the coming year”, he added.

More information about Capital Pride’s Board of Directors can be found at capitalpride.ca/about-us/board-of-directors.

Resources:

For more information regarding COVID-19, please access the following resources:

• Ottawa Public Health
• Public Health Ontario
• Health Canada

Individuals in distress or experiencing a mental health crisis, can get support over the phone by calling:

• Ottawa Distress Centre 24/7 Crisis Line: 613-722-6914
• Trans Lifeline (for trans individuals): 1-877-330-6366
• LGBT Youth Line: 1-800-268-9688
• If you are in need of an emergency shelter in Ottawa: 311
• Tel-Aide Outaouais: 819-775-3223
• Écoute Entraide: 1-855-EN-LIGNE (365-4463)

About Capital Pride

Capital Pride creates opportunities to celebrate, advocate, educate and connect people, respecting the full diversity of the 2SLGBTQ+ community in Canada’s capital region.

Contacts:

Osmel B. Guerra Maynes, Executive Director
Phone: 613.680.3033 ext. 100
Email: [email protected]

Riyadh Nazerally, Director of Communications (Board of Directors)
Email: [email protected]

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