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Job Opportunity: 2019 Summer Interns

April 30, 2019

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Volunteer Coordinator

Capital Pride is seeking a summer intern to fill the role of Volunteer Coordinator and help plan and execute the 2019 Capital Pride Festival.

The Coordinator will manage Pride’s Volunteer Program, work with the Operations Team to develop comprehensive event and volunteer plans, recruit over 150 volunteers and prepare a training program.
Position Type: Summer Contract (4 months)
Monday, May 20 – Friday, August 30, 2019

Hours of Work: 35 hours/week
Some evening and weekend work will be required.
The successful applicant must be available for Festival Week: Sunday, August 18 to Sunday, August 25, 2019.

Rate of Pay: $16 per hour

Job Description

Volunteer Recruitment
  • Work with the Operations Lead and Operations Team to identify the volunteer requirements for the 2019 festival.
  • Develop volunteer job descriptions which include time commitments and job duties.
  • Work with the Marketing and Communications Coordinator to develop a promotional plan to promote the volunteer vacancies.
  • Develop an application process and respond to inquiries from prospective volunteers.
  • Conduct community outreach to promote the volunteer opportunities.
Volunteer Training and Development
  • Develop and implement a training program for volunteers that takes into account the different types of volunteer areas (community fair, parade, youth events) and includes an anti-oppression training component.
  • Develop opportunities for volunteers from a range of backgrounds and skill sets to be engaged in meaningful volunteer opportunities.
Volunteer Management
  • Work with the Operations Lead and Operations Committee to develop volunteer staffing schedules for each event.
  • Schedule volunteers taking into consideration event requirements and volunteer availability.
  • Act as the primary liaison for all volunteer staff including responding to inquiries and fielding questions.
Event Coordination
  • Assist with the execution of our events, including co-branded community events, media launch, sponsor reception, family and youth events, pride pageant, networking events, festival weekend, and parade.
  • Assist with the planning of various event components, including guestlist and invitations, venues, speakers and entertainment, food and beverage, photography and videography, accommodation and transportation, health and safety, and marketing.

Other

  • Prepare a Volunteer Management Report following the Festival that includes a summary of all communications materials, media mentions and social media strategy.
  • Support other members of the Festival Team with general tasks as they arise.

Qualifications  

  • Member of, or ally to, the 2SLGBTQ+ community and a commitment to operating within an anti-oppressive work framework.
  • Knowledge of, and/or experience working or volunteering in, the 2SLGBTQ+ community.
  • Experience in the planning and execution of volunteer run events
  • Experience leading teams or managing volunteers or people (either in a work or volunteer setting).
  • Comfortable with public speaking and conducting outreach.
  • Detail oriented and very organized.
  • Ability to exercise good judgment and discretion in busy and occasionally high-stress situations.
  • Familiarity with Microsoft Excel.

Eligibility

It is expected that this position will be supported by the Canada Summer Jobs Program. As such, applicants must meet the following requirements:  

  • be between 15 and 30 years of age at the start of the employment;
  • be a Canadian citizen, permanent resident, or person to whom refugee protection has been conferred under the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act for the duration of the employment; and,
  • have a valid Social Insurance Number at the start of employment and be legally entitled to work in Canada in accordance with relevant provincial or territorial legislation and regulations.

Applicants are asked to submit a resume and cover letter to [email protected] no later than Monday, May 13, 2019. Only those candidates contacted for an interview will be notified.

Capital Pride is committed to the principles of employment equity. Applications from all qualified candidates are welcome; in particular, applications are encouraged from racialized people, Indigenous people, people with disabilities, queer and trans people, and women.

Marketing and Communications Coordinator

Capital Pride is seeking a summer intern to fill the role of Marketing and Communications Coordinator and help plan and execute the 2019 Capital Pride Festival

The Coordinator will assist developing marketing materials, producing the annual pride guide and managing social media channels.
Position Type: Summer Contract (4 months)
Monday, May 20 – Friday, August 30, 2019

Hours of Work: 35 hours/week
Some evening and weekend work will be required.
The successful applicant must be available for Festival Week: Sunday, August 18 to Sunday, August 25, 2019.

Rate of Pay: $16 per hour

Job Description

Marketing
  • Assist in the development of a marketing strategy to promote the Festival throughout the National Capital Region including online marketing, traditional marketing (newspapers, radio) and through promotional campaigns and community outreach.
  • Implement a marketing strategy to promote the Festival in key tourism markets throughout Ontario and Quebec.
  • Assist the Operations Lead with the development of communications materials including text for websites, Pride Guide content and written text for marketing materials.
  • Work with graphics designer to develop promotional materials and all collateral.
  • Work with the Operations Lead to develop communication materials and event signage required for the Festival.
Social Media
  • Coordinating the Festival’s bilingual social media strategy including developing a social media calendar, scheduling and posting content and monitoring social media platforms.
  • Lead the Festival volunteer social media team and supervise on-site photographers and videographers during the Festival.
  • Monitor the Festival’s general email inbox and social media accounts to respond to inquiries from community groups and festival attendees.
Media Relations
  • Develop a media relations strategy including identifying opportunities to engage the media, draft media releases and monitor media mentions.
  • Coordinate media requests from both English and French media including conducting background research, scheduling interviews and preparing media messaging for spokespeople.
Event Coordination
  • Assist with the execution of our events, including co-branded community events, media launch, sponsor reception, family and youth events, pride pageant, networking events, festival weekend, and parade.
  • Assist with the planning of various event components, including guestlist and invitations, venues, speakers and entertainment, food and beverage, photography and videography, accommodation and transportation, health and safety, and marketing.
Other
  • Prepare a Communications Report following the Festival that includes a summary of all communications materials, media mentions and social media strategy.
  • Support other members of the Festival Team with general tasks as they arise.
Qualifications
  • Member of, or ally to, the 2SLGBTQ+ community and a commitment to operating within an anti-oppressive work framework.
  • Knowledge of, and/or experience working or volunteering in, the 2SLGBTQ+ community
  • Experience managing social media channels for other organizations
  • Ability to exercise good judgment and discretion in busy and occasionally high-stress situations.
  • Bilingualism is strongly preferred
  • Familiarity with Adobe Creative Suite is an asset

Eligibility

It is expected that this position will be supported by the Canada Summer Jobs Program. As such, applicants must meet the following requirements:  

  • be between 15 and 30 years of age at the start of the employment;
  • be a Canadian citizen, permanent resident, or person to whom refugee protection has been conferred under the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act for the duration of the employment; and,
  • have a valid Social Insurance Number at the start of employment and be legally entitled to work in Canada in accordance with relevant provincial or territorial legislation and regulations.

Applicants are asked to submit a resume and cover letter to [email protected] no later than Monday, May 13, 2019. Only those candidates contacted for an interview will be notified.

Capital Pride is committed to the principles of employment equity. Applications from all qualified candidates are welcome; in particular, applications are encouraged from racialized people, Indigenous people, people with disabilities, queer and trans people, and women.

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More information

[email protected]
613-680-3033

Capital Pride Annual General Meeting celebrates 2018 success & Pride’s building momentum

March 11, 2019

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For immediate release: Capital Pride announces new executive officers, updates bylaws to recognize two-spirit community members first for all future references to 2SLGBTQ+.

Ottawa, Ontario – Capital Pride has concluded its Annual General Meeting (AGM) for 2018 – a record-setting year for Pride to build on as the organization moves forward. Capital Pride’s finalized annual report for 2018 will be available in both of Canada’s official languages in the coming weeks.

Keeping with Capital Pride’s bylaws governing the election of executive officers at each AGM, a diverse, dynamic and accomplished team will serve in key positions for 2019:

“Capital Pride begins 2019 from a position of strength. Our organization has never been stronger because our team has never been stronger,” said Chairperson, Davy Sabourin. “Working with incredible volunteers, community partners, and contractors, we are united and ready to deliver amazing opportunities for the 2SLGBTQ+ community.”

“Capital Pride respects the full diversity of our community, and we are committed to doing even more to ensure we reflect the full range of perspectives and experiences of the people we serve,” said Vice-Chair, Tara Paterson.

Responding to suggestions from two-spirit community members and recognizing the primacy of Indigenous peoples in Canada’s national story, Capital Pride’s bylaws have been updated to recognize two-spirit members of the rainbow family first in all future references to 2SLGBTQ+. Capital Pride is the first Pride organization in Canada to make this important step. Other bylaw changes are reflected here.

Preparations for Capital Pride’s 2019 summer festival are already well underway. It will take place from Sunday, August 18, to Sunday, August 25, with the parade taking place on the 25th. Capital Pride is currently recruiting for a visionary new Festival Director. Sponsorship packages and registration for organizations and groups participating in the community fair and parade will be available late March.

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

More information

Capital Pride Communications Team
613-680-3033
[email protected]

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More information

[email protected]
613-680-3033

Capital Pride Launches First-Ever WinterPride

February 6, 2019

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Capital Prides invites the National Capital Region to show their pride during Winterlude; with a week of brand new programming, performances, learning opportunities and activism.

Ottawa, Ontario – Capital Pride launches its WinterPride today, taking place February 6th through 10th, co-produced in partnership with Canadian Heritage and Winterlude (Capital Experience). WinterPride will honour the 50th anniversary of the partial decriminalization of homosexual acts in Canada as its theme; celebrating the hard fought triumphs of the LGBTQ2+ community, while recognizing the important work left to be done.

Following the biggest Capital Pride Festival ever in the summer of 2018, WinterPride continues the momentum. The first pride celebration of its kind in the region will feature local stars, including Ms. Capital Pride 2018 Kimmy Dymond and Mr. Capital Pride Charli Deville; as well as international figures, including American Horror Story and The Bold and the Beautiful actor Chaz Bono, and RuPaul’s Drag Race superstars Derrick Barry and Trinity the Tuck. Our Speaker Series will also welcome trans activists from the National Capital Region and the surrounding regions to share their lived experience and speak about their advocacy work.

“Since the summer festival, Capital Pride maintains its commitment to being more community-driven. That’s why we consulted the community on what the first WinterPride should look like, said Davy Sabourin, Chairperson of Capital Pride. “Working closely with Canadian Heritage, we have been able to apply the wishes of the community, all while having programming that aligns with the four pillars of Capital Pride’s mission: education, advocacy, celebration and connection”

The inaugural WinterPride programming includes:

  • Speaker Series: Trans Voices, featuring local and regional activists, and an in-depth conversation with Chaz Bono, son of Sonny Bono and Cher;
  • The inaugural Capital Pride Awards Gala honouring leaders from the local LGBTQ2+ community, announcing the 2019 Grand Marshal and Youth Marshal and the first ever Community Champion. Including performances by RuPaul’s Drag Race superstars Derrick Barry and Trinity the Tuck;
  • An exciting weekend of programming on Sparks Street featuring Montreal legend Mado, burlesque and boylesque performers, impersonators, drag stars, and more; and
  • A commemorative march in honour of the 50 year anniversary of the partial decriminalization of homosexual acts in Canada, beginning at Parliament Hill.

“Between the summer festival and now, we’ve been working closely with the amazing and supportive team at Canadian Heritage to produce a memorable festival that gets the community out in the winter,” said Festival Director Christian Garceau. “Our operations team has volunteered so many hours to create exciting programming at the Canadian Museum of History, on Sparks St., and at Parliament Hill, and we couldn’t be more excited to share WinterPride with everyone.”

See the entire WinterPride schedule here.

Capital Pride creates opportunities to celebrate, advocate, educate and connect people, respecting the full diversity of the LGBTQ2+ community in Canada’s Capital Region. Capital Pride hosts the 2019 WinterPride from February 6th to 10th.

MORE INFORMATION:

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[email protected]
613-680-3033

Capital Pride Announces First-Ever “WinterPride”

December 13, 2018

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For immediate release
Thursday, December 13, 2018

Following the region’s largest Pride festival yet in summer 2018, Capital Pride teams up with Canadian Heritage and Winterlude to co-produce 5 days of winter programming including a march commemorating the 50-year anniversary of the partial decriminalization of homosexual acts in Canada.

Ottawa, Ontario – Capital Pride announced today it is producing its first-ever winter edition of Capital Pride, entitled “Capital Pride Presents: WinterPride.” The festival will take place during Winterlude from February 6 to 10 2019, in partnership with Canadian Heritage.

“We’re excited to provide important LGBTQ2+ programming, not just throughout our summer festival, but all year round”  said Davy Sabourin, Capital Pride Chairperson, “Loneliness and isolation can particularly affect members of our community, even more so during the colder months. Ottawa is very much a winter city and we’re stepping out to provide opportunities to celebrate, advocate, educate, and connect people throughout the year. ”

“Anyone who’s been to a summer Pride Festival would recognize planning an outdoor Pride Festival in February presents some challenges, but also some great opportunities to bring the community and its allies together for unique events on an outdoor stage, for a street party, and for a couple indoor events where we can warm up.” added Festival Director Christian Garceau. “The local drag and burlesque communities are excited for the challenge of modifying their acts for an outdoor stage.”

The programming includes:

  • 2 evenings of performances on the Main Stage on Sparks Street (corner of Sparks and Bank)
  • Family-friendly activities on Saturday afternoon focused on sports and outdoor activities 
  • The inaugural edition of the Capital Pride Awards Gala at the Museum of History in Gatineau
  • A Sunday march recognizing the 50-year anniversary of the partial decriminalization of homosexual acts in Canada and a push for greater equality
  • A speakers’ series event on the topic of advocacy
  • The second series of contribution from the Capital Pride Community Fund to support community events.

“Capital Pride will again have the opportunity to recognize those who make a difference in the everyday lives of our community members by presenting the 2018 Community Champion of the Year Award, as well as the 2019 Summer Festival Grand and Youth Marshals following an open nomination process” added Mr. Sabourin. “We will also encourage community members to host their own events with the second iteration of the Capital Pride Community Fund.”

“Canadian Heritage is proud to present Winterlude, and we acknowledge the support of Capital Pride as one of our new programming partners for this year’s festival. From February 1 to 18, 2019, enjoy an urban winter experience, with all the traditional staples and many new features. Celebrate our artistic and culinary talent, Indigenous culture, as well as LGBTQ2+ culture, history and pride. Discover the festival’s new destinations and more dynamic, diverse programming. Whatever your age or interests, whether you’re from Canada’s Capital Region or elsewhere in the country or the world, I invite you to come take part because THIS is Winterlude!” said The Honourable Pablo Rodriguez, Minister of Canadian Heritage and Multiculturalism.

Capital Pride creates opportunities to celebrate, advocate, educate and connect people, respecting the full diversity of the LGBTQ2+ community in Canada’s Capital Region. Capital Pride hosts its first Capital Pride Presents: WinterPride Festival from February 6 to 10, 2019.


MORE INFORMATION:
Siofra Mcalister, Media Relations Coordinator & Allison Caverly, Assistant Media Relations Coordinator:  613-680-3033 ext. 103 | [email protected]

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[email protected]
613-680-3033

World AIDS Day: Capital Pride continues to be committed to creating spaces for those affected by HIV/AIDS

December 1, 2018

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On World AIDS Day, December 1, Capital Pride reiterates its commitment to creating spaces where all LGBTQ2+ people are safe and accepted – including those living with HIV/AIDS.

HIV and AIDS is a global epidemic that disproportionately affects members of the queer and trans community. In Canada, there are approximately 63,110 people are living with HIV (2016).

While there is no cure for HIV, the virus is treatable. In fact, a groundswell of research confirms that when a person living with HIV is on effective treatment, it will reduce the viral load to undetectable levels which protects their health and makes HIV untransmittable to their sexual partners. For this reason, in 2018 Capital Pride signed on to the consensus statement of the U=U campaign: Undetectable = Untransmittable.

Capital Pride is proud to support the following organizations that serve people affected, impacted by and/or at risk of HIV/AIDS in the Capital Region:

  • AIDS Committee of Ottawa: Provides support, prevention, education and outreach services to people affected by, impacted by and at risk of HIV/AIDS in Ottawa.
  • Bruce House: a community-based organization providing housing, compassionate care and support in Ottawa for people living with HIV and AIDS, based on the belief that everyone has the right to live and die with dignity.
  • MAX Ottawa: a community-based organization that focuses on maximising the health and wellness of gay, bisexual, Two-spirit, queer, and other guys who are into guys, both cis and trans in the Ottawa region.
  • Le BRAS Outaouais:  a community-based organization which has the mission of intervention and a community action to improve the quality of life of the population of the Outaouais with respect to HIV/AIDS.
CONTACT:

Tara Paterson, Vice Chair | [email protected]

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[email protected]
613-680-3033

Capital Pride committed to working to end transphobia in all its forms

November 20, 2018

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Trans Day of Remembrance is a day to mourn and commemorate people who have lost their lives to transphobic violence. Capital Pride grieves the pain of members of our communities who are subject to trauma, oppression, illness, abuse and harassment.

In Canada, more than one third of trans youth report being physically threatened or injured in the past year and 65% of trans people have experienced intimate partner violence. For trans people of colour, violence and discrimination is even worse: globally, 84% of trans people who were murdered in 2017 were racialized.

Capital Pride is committed to working to end to transphobia in all its forms. We celebrate the resilience of trans and gender diverse people across the world and will continue to create spaces where trans and gender diverse people can express themselves without fear of violence or harassment.

Transgender Day of Remembrance (TDOR) is an annual observance on November 20 that honors the memory of those whose lives were lost in acts of anti-transgender violence.

CONTACT INFORMATION:

Tara Paterson, Vice Chair | [email protected]

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[email protected]
613-680-3033

Capital Pride hosts its annual Pride Parade, including a record over 150 groups participating, and a number of VIPs

August 26, 2018

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Ottawa – With the 2018 Capital Pride Festival approaching its final day, members of the media are invited to attend the 2018 Pride Parade.

The event will include over 150 groups, including community groups, sports teams, embassies, local businesses, and many other groups. There will be a large marching procession, including floats, vehicles, live music, and more.

What: 2018 Capital Pride Parade

Who: Over 150 groups, including community groups, sports teams, foreign missions, and local businesses.

Date: Sunday, August 26, 2018

Time: 1:30 PM

Where: Starts at Bank and Gladstone, heads north on Kent before returning to Bank via Laurier, ending at Bank and Somerset.

Capital Pride spokespeople and other parade participants will be available before the parade, at 12:45 pm at Bank and Gladstone. 

The 2018 Capital Pride Festival takes place August 19-26, 2018 and includes two days of mainstage programming with rock icon Bif Naked and pop iconoclast Brooke Candy, an expanded street festival, 15 signature events, over 75 community events, and a parade of over 150 groups. See the 2018 pride guide here. Media passes for the Mainstage are available here.

CONTACT INFORMATION:

Anastasia Pitcher, Marketing and Communications Coordinator, 613-680-3033, ext. 104 | [email protected]

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[email protected]
613-680-3033

Capital Pride launches its biggest Pride Weekend ever, featuring two days of Mainstage programming and an expanded street fair

August 25, 2018

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Ottawa – As Capital Pride launches its 2018 Festival Weekend, members of the media are invited to attend the festivities.

Capital Pride Festival Weekend will launch, with its first-ever two day music festival across three different stages featuring iconic performers, legendary drag superstars and a street fair spanning the entire Gay Village.

 

What: Capital Pride Festival Weekend Kick-off

Date: Saturday, August 25, 2018

Time: 12 pm to 11 pm

Who: Capital Pride, local vendors, and a full line-up of performers (see the full line-up here).

Where: Bank St, Downtown Ottawa

 

Capital Pride spokespeople will be available for comment.

The 2018 Capital Pride Festival takes place August 19-26, 2018 and includes two days of mainstage programming with rock icon Bif Naked and pop iconoclast Brooke Candy, an expanded street festival, 15 signature events, over 75 community events, and a parade of over 150 groups. See the 2018 pride guide here. Media passes for the Pride Pageant and Mainstage are available here.

CONTACT INFORMATION:

Anastasia Pitcher, Marketing and Communications Coordinator, 613-680-3033, ext. 104 | [email protected]

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More information

[email protected]
613-680-3033

Capital Pride hosts its annual Pride Pageant, featuring RuPaul’s Drag Race Superstar and competing local Drag Performers

August 23, 2018

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Ottawa – With the 2018 Capital Pride Festival in full swing, members of the media are invited to attend the 2018 Capital Pride Pageant.

The event will include local drag performers competing for the titles of Ms., Mr., and Mx. Capital Pride 2018, while host Kiki Coe and DJ Ash Gauthier keep things moving, along with performance from guest superstar Aja.

What: 2018 Capital Pride Pageant

Who: Various contestants and performers, including Drag superstar Aja and host Kiki Coe

Date: Thursday, August 23 2018

Time: 8 PM to 10 PM, Doors at 7 PM

Where: Delta City Center Hotel, 101 Lyon Street N

Capital Pride spokespeople will be available following the pageant.

The 2018 Capital Pride Festival takes place August 19-26, 2018 and includes two days of mainstage programming with rock icon Bif Naked and pop iconoclast Brooke Candy, an expanded street festival, 15 signature events, over 75 community events, and a parade of over 150 groups. See the 2018 pride guide here. Media passes for the Pride Pageant and Mainstage are available here.

CONTACT INFORMATION:

Anastasia Pitcher, Marketing and Communications Coordinator, 613-680-3033, ext. 104 | [email protected]

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More information

[email protected]
613-680-3033

Capital Pride launches its biggest Festival ever, Mayors proclaim Pride Week in Ottawa and Gatineau

August 20, 2018

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Ottawa – As Capital Pride launches its 2018 Festival, members of the media are invited to attend flag raising ceremonies where Pride Week will be proclaimed.

Mayor Jim Watson and Mayor Maxime Pedneaud-Jobin will raise the Pride flag in Ottawa and Gatineau, respectively.

What:            Flag raising ceremonies launching the 2018 Capital Pride Festival

Date:              Monday, August 20, 2018

Gatineau 10:00 AM
 Remarks by Spokesperson Davy Sabourin and Mayor Maxime
Pedneaud-Jobin
 Maison du Citoyen, 25 Laurier, Gatineau

Ottawa 12 noon
 Remarks by Chairperson Toby Whitfield, Mayor Jim Watson and other
elected representatives
 Festival Plaza, Ottawa City Hall, 110 Laurier Ave W, Ottawa

Who:              Speakers include Mayor Jim Watson, Mayor Maxime Pedneaud-Jobin, Capital Pride                             Chair Toby Whitfield, and other elected representatives.

Capital Pride spokespeople will be available following the formal remarks.

The 2018 Capital Pride Festival takes place August 19-26, 2018 and includes two days of mainstage programming with rock icon Bif Naked and pop iconoclast Brooke Candy, an expanded street festival, 15 signature events, over 75 community events, and a parade of over 150 groups. See the 2018 pride guide here. Media passes for the Pride Pageant and Mainstage are available here.

CONTACT INFORMATION:

Anastasia Pitcher, Marketing and Communications Coordinator, 613-680-3033, ext. 104 | [email protected]

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More information

[email protected]
613-680-3033

Capital Pride announces recipients of 2018 Community Project Fund

August 11, 2018

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In June 2018 Capital Pride established a pilot project to enhance community events and programming during the 2018 Festival. Community groups and groups of people were invited to apply for funding to support programming that furthers one (or more) of Capital Pride’s objectives: education, advocacy, connection or celebration.

Additionally, applicants organizing events or programming that serves marginalized and/or traditionally underrepresented communities within the LGBTQ2+ community were encouraged and prioritized. These include events or programming for trans people, non-binary people, racialized people, Indigenous people, people with disabilities, people living with HIV/AIDS, migrants, and people from other marginalized communities.

We are pleased to recognize the following groups who have received support from Capital Pride’s 2018 Community Project Fund.

Dark & Fruity

Presented by local community organizers
Sunday, August 26, 2018
3pm – 10pm

About the Project:
Dark and Fruity takes place following the 2018 Pride Parade and includes a a BBQ, art installations and a dance party, Dark and Fruity is an event for an by black Queer and Trans folks. The aim is to have a space dedicated to the safety, empowerment and celebration of black queer and trans folks.

Spill the Tea

Presented by MAX Ottawa

Thursday, August 23
10pm – 2am
27 Club (27 York Street)

About the Project:
Spill the Tea is a new health and wellness intervention for gay, bisexual, two-spirit, queer and other guys who are into guys, whether cis or trans (GBT2Q) in the Ottawa region being launched by MAX Ottawa in partnership with ViiV Healthcare.

Spill the Tea focuses on safer partying education and awareness and getting guys into guys in the Ottawa region connected to information and resources. Spill the Tea aims to create conversations and decrease stigma around partying and testing for guys into guys.

The first of four events will take place during Capital Pride on August 23 and will feature RuPaul’s season 9 top four queen Shea Coulee, Anaconda LaSabrosa (Montreal), Mikki (Toronto) and Devona (Ottawa).

Get Tickets

CCGSD Capital Pride Boat Cruise

Presented by the Canadian Centre for Gender and Sexual Diversity
Monday, August 20
6pm – 9pm
Jacques Cartier Park Docks

About the Project:

This boat cruise brings folks from across the community together to celebrate Pride in a relaxing, networking, and fun boat cruise. The event works to support marginalized and minority LGBTQ2+ communities in an event that is accessible, and focused on creating space for folks of colour who may feel not centred at traditional pride events. The event is a sensory-friendly event for folks who struggle with large events, and is a leisurely more ‘chill’ way of celebrating Pride.

More information and free tickets:

Celebrate Black Pride

Presented by Breakout Squad Media Group
Friday, August 24
10pm – late
People Nightclub

About the Project:
Celebrate Black Pride will take over People Nightclub for an evening of art, acceptance and celebration. Often times when we think of celebrating members of the LGBTQ2+ community, black queer folks find themselves attending events in silence because of the homophobia that continues to exist within the community. In contrast, this event will celebrate black queer folks recognizing the intersecting identities of many members of our community.

Authentic Relating Games: Pride Edition

Presented by: KindSpace Ottawa
Thursday, August 23
6:30pm – 9:30pm
Hintonburg Community Centre

About the Project:
The event is an Authentic Relating games night held for and by the LGBTQ2+ community. We seek to elevate the community by strengthening communication and relations between members in a mindful, positive, and celebratory manner. Authentic Relating Games are a collection of extensively tested, masterfully led experiences that give players a hands-on taste of both the joy and skills of interpersonal connection. It is our hope that through these interpersonal connections, that we can promote more cohesiveness and unity within the Ottawa LGBTQ+ community.

More information

Chalk Rainbow – Craie-en-ciel

Presented by Chalk Rainbow – Craie-en-ciel
Saturday, August 25
11am – 3pm
Parc Commémoratif (Gatineau)

About the Project:
Chalk Rainbow is a bilingual community event that celebrates the Gatineau LGBTQ2+ community, and welcomes the participation of families, friends and neighbors! Our volunteer committee invites people from the local community to join in the celebrations to break bread with members of the LGBTQ2+ community, and enjoy free refreshments and food. Several community-based groups and organizations will be participating in the community fair to engage participants in their services.

More information

U=U Community Forum

Presented by AIDS Committee of Ottawa
Saturday, August 25
2pm – 4pm
National Arts Centre (1 Elgin Street)

About the Project:
The AIDS Committee of Ottawa presents the Undetectable Equals Untransmittable Community Forum!  Learn more about the global phenomenon known as U=U from the founders and leading minds in this grassroots movement! Guests speakers include: Bruce Richman, Britanny Cameron, Bob Leahy, Bryan C. Jones and Randy Davis!

More information

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[email protected]
613-680-3033

Download the 2018 Pride Guide

August 10, 2018

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Our 2018 Pride Guide is now available in print and online.

Print copies are available at participating TD Bank branches, Rexall stores, Messine’s Independent Grocer, Loblaws (Rideau) and local business along Bank Street!

Or download it here: 2018 Pride Guide

 

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[email protected]
613-680-3033

Capital Pride announces 2018 Parade Marshals

July 20, 2018

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Today, Capital Pride announced its 2018 Grand Marshal, International Marshal and Youth Marshal for the Capital Pride parade taking place August 26, 2018. This follows a public nomination process that invited individuals and community organizations to nominate people who represent the LGBTQ2+ community in extraordinary ways and embody this year’s theme CommUNITY.

“The Capital Pride 2018 parade marshals were chosen for the leadership and commitment to community building,” said Toby Whitfield, Capital Pride Chairperson. “They are leaders who work tirelessly to improve the well-being of the LGBTQ2+ community both locally and globally, and we are proud to have them with us this year.”

The 2018 grand marshals are:

Grand Marshal: China Doll is an Ottawa drag icon. Known for her community work and love of karaoke, China Doll embodies Capital Pride’s values of of creating opportunities to celebrate, advocate, educate and connect people.

Youth Marshal: SAEFTY (Support And Education For Trans Youth) is a youth organization for and run by trans, two-spirit and gender diverse youth in the National Capital Region.

International Marshal: Bruce Richman, Executive Director of Prevention Access Campaign is the founder of the international Undetectable Equals Untransmittable or U=U movement. The movement is dismantling HIV stigma and incentivizing treatment uptake and adherence by raising awareness that individuals with HIV viral loads at an undetectable level cannot sexually transmit HIV.

Each year, Capital Pride honours local, national and/or international LGBTQ2+ leaders as marshals of the Capital Pride parade. Recent marshals have included Candy Palmater, Charlie Lowthian-Rickert, Laith Ashley and Chrystos. This year’s marshals will participate in events throughout the Capital Pride Festival including the Flag Raising, Human Rights Vigil and Pride Pageant and will lead the Capital Pride Parade on Sunday, August 26.

The 2018 Capital Pride Festival takes place August 19-26, 2018 and includes two days of mainstage programming with rock icon Bif Naked and pop iconoclast Brooke Candy, an expanded street festival, 12 signature events, and over 60 community events. See the 2018 programming media kit here.

MORE INFORMATION:
Siofra Mcalister, Media Relations Coordinator & Allison Caverly, Assistant Media Relations Coordinator: 613-680-3033 ext. 103 | [email protected]

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[email protected]
613-680-3033

Capital Pride is proud to support the U=U Campaign

July 9, 2018

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Capital Pride is proud to support Undetectable equals Untransmittable Campaign and add our name to the U=U Consensus Statement.

U=U was launched in early 2016 by a group of people living with HIV who created the groundbreaking Consensus Statement with global experts to clear up confusion about the science of U=U. Today, over 650 community partners from 82 countries have signed onto the statement and are uniting to clarify and disseminate the revolutionary but largely unknown fact that people living with HIV on effective treatment do not sexually transmit HIV.

A groundswell of research confirms that when a person living with HIV is on effective treatment, it will reduce the level of HIV to “undetectable” levels which protects their health and makes them incapable of transmitting HIV to their sexual partners, or what we call “Undetectable = Untransmittable: U=U”.  As a prevention strategy, this is often referred to as Treatment as Prevention.

During Pride we’ll be working with the AIDS Committee of Ottawa to build awareness about the U=U Campaign. Read the Consensus Statement here: https://www.preventionaccess.org/consensus

 

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More information

[email protected]
613-680-3033

Apply Now: Community Project Fund

June 28, 2018

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Capital Pride has established a pilot project to enhance community events and programming during the 2018 Festival. Following feedback from community groups, the Community Project Fund will provide groups with funding to support an event or programming that takes place during the Festival. Events and programming should further one (or more) of Ottawa Capital Pride’s objectives: education, advocacy, connection or celebration.

This is a pilot project and it is anticipated that successful groups will receive up to $1,000 to support an event or project.

Deadline: Sunday, July 15, 2018

More information

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More information

[email protected]
613-680-3033

Call for Nominations: Grand & Youth Marshal

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Each year Capital Pride recognizes people who make an impact on the local or broader LGBTQ2+ community. This year, we are asking the community to nominate people as our 2018 Grand Marshal and 2018 Youth Marshal. The Marshals are leaders in the community who create a better, more vibrant queer community.

Capital Pride continues to work to celebrate traditionally underrepresented people and as such we encourage nominations for trans people and non-binary people, racialized people, Indigenous people, people with disabilities, people living with HIV/AIDS, migrants and people from other marginalized communities.

  • Grand Marshal: The Grand Marshal has had a big impact in the National Capital Region, Kitigan Zibi or Pikwakanagan First Nation through their engagement and effort in a meaningful initiative. This can be through their professional, personal or volunteer work.
  • Youth Marshal: The Youth Marshal is a person aged 25 or under who has, through their dedication, elevated, brightened, and advocated for the LGBTQ2+ community in the National Capital Region, Kitigan Zibi or Pikwakanagan First Nation. The Youth Marshal has made a meaningful impact in school, work, a community organization or their neighbourhoods.

Previously, Capital Pride has awarded multiple people with the position of Grand Marshal or awarded a different Grand Marshal title and may choose to do so again.

Deadline for Nominations: Sunday, July 8, 2018

More information

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More information

[email protected]
613-680-3033

2018 theme “CommUNITY”, new programming, and expanded festival site announced

June 20, 2018

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For immediate release

Changes include new community and youth initiatives, a larger festival site, and expanded music line-up and programming as Capital Pride sets sights on its largest Pride Festival yet.

Ottawa, Ontario – Capital Pride announced today its 2018 theme “CommUNITY” and new programming and events for Capital Pride Festival Week 2018, taking place August 19 through 26, 2018 in the National Capital Region.  

“Our 2018 theme is a tribute to people and organizations locally, nationally and globally who advocate for LGBTQ2+ rights. It is a celebration of the power of community.”  said Toby Whitfield, Capital Pride Chairperson, “Our expanded festival programming and new community initiatives are part of our goal to host the largest Pride Festival in our history.”

During the announcement, Festival Director Christian Garceau shared new programming and initiatives, saying “My team and I have been working hard to develop meaningful and impactful programming for the LGBTQ2 community and its wonderful allies. While no easy task, it’s an honour to bring this new programming to the region.” The new programming includes:

  • 2 days of mainstage programming now at Bank St. and Somerset St. featuring headliners Bif Naked and Brooke Candy. The new Saturday line-up also includes an afternoon T-Dance, an early evening Drag Show and headlining evening performers.
  • An expanded Street Festival stretching north along Bank Street from Gladstone Ave. to Somerset St. and new this year Somerset St. will be closed from Bank St. to O’Connor St..
  • The launch of a Community Projects Fund to support community groups organizing events during the Festival.
  • The launch of a Youth Marshal and a community nomination process for both the Grand Marshal and Youth Marshal.

“Our 2018 Grand Marshal and Youth Marshal will be leaders in the community who strive to create a better, more vibrant queer community and we are excited to ask the community for nominations this year” added Davy Sabourin, Capital Pride Community Relations Officer, “Our new Community Projects Fund builds on our commitment to support community groups during the Festival.”

See the entire 2018 programming media kit here.

Capital Pride creates opportunities to celebrate, advocate, educate and connect people, respecting the full diversity of the LGBTQ2+ community in Canada’s Capital Region. Capital Pride hosts the 2018 Capital Pride Festival from August 19 to 26.

MORE INFORMATION:

Siofra Mcalister, Media Relations Coordinator & Allison Caverly, Assistant Media Relations Coordinator:  613-680-3033 ext. 103 | [email protected]

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More information

[email protected]
613-680-3033

Advertise in the Pride Guide

May 17, 2018

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The Pride Guide has everything you need to know about this year’s festival including signature events, a parade and festival map and community events listings. 10,000 printed copies of the guide will be distributed throughout Ottawa and Gatineau in addition to a digital copy. Book by June 7 to confirm your spot!

Booking deadline: June 15, 2018
Artwork deadline: June 22, 2018

More information

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More information

[email protected]
613-680-3033

Register for the Pride Parade and Community Fair

May 16, 2018

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This year’s most colourful event promises to be even bigger, better and more inclusive than ever! More than a hundred community groups and organizations, sports teams, local businesses and allied groups will parade through Centretown and be set-up on Bank Street. Join in this year’s celebration!

Early Bird Deadline: Friday, June 29, 2018

Registration Deadline: Friday, August 3, 2018

Parade Registration

Participate in the Capital Pride Parade.

Register

Community Fair Registration

Participate in the Capital Pride Community Fair.

Register

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More information

[email protected]
613-680-3033

Job Opportunity: Summer Interns

April 19, 2018

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Events and Volunteer Coordinator

Capital Pride is seeking a summer intern to fill the role of Volunteer Coordinator and help plan and execute the 2018 Capital Pride Festival. The Coordinator will manage Pride’s Volunteer Program, work with the Operations Team to develop comprehensive event and volunteer plans, recruit over 150 volunteers and prepare a training program.

Position Type: Summer Contract
 4 months, Month, April 30 – Friday, August 31, 2018

Hours of Work: 35 hours/week
 Some evening and weekend work will be required.
 The successful applicant must be available for Festival Week: Sunday, August 19 to Sunday, August 26, 2018.  

Rate of Pay $16 per hour

Job Description

Event Coordination
  • Assist with the execution of our events, including co-branded community events, media launch, sponsor reception, family and youth events, pride pageant, networking events, festival weekend, and parade.
  • Assist with the planning of various event components, including guestlist and invitations, venues, speakers and entertainment, food and beverage, photography and videography, accommodation and transportation, health and safety, and marketing.
Volunteer Recruitment
  • Work with the Festival Director and Operations Team to identify the volunteer requirements for the 2018 festival.
  • Develop volunteer job descriptions which include time commitments and job duties.
  • Work with the Communications Coordinator to develop a promotional plan to promote the volunteer vacancies.
  • Develop an application process and respond to inquiries from prospective volunteers.
  • Conduct community outreach to promote the volunteer opportunities.
Volunteer Training and Development
  • Develop and implement a training program for volunteers that takes into account the different types of volunteer areas (community fair, parade, youth events) and includes an anti-oppression training component.
  • Develop opportunities for volunteers from a range of backgrounds and skill sets to be engaged in meaningful volunteer opportunities.
Volunteer Management
  • Work with the Festival Producer, Event Coordinator and Operations Committee to develop volunteer staffing schedules for each event.
  • Schedule volunteers taking into consideration event requirements and volunteer availability.
  • Act as the primary liaison for all volunteer staff including responding to inquiries and fielding questions.
Other
  • Prepare a Volunteer Management Report following the Festival that includes a summary of all communications materials, media mentions and social media strategy.
  • Support other members of the Festival Team with general tasks as they arise.

Qualifications  

  • Member of, or ally to, the LGBTQ2 community and a commitment to operating within an anti-oppressive work framework.
  • Knowledge of, and/or experience working or volunteering in, the LGBTQ2 community.
  • Experience in the planning and execution of volunteer run events
  • Experience leading teams or managing volunteers or people (either in a work or volunteer setting).
  • Comfortable with public speaking and conducting outreach.
  • Detail oriented and very organized.
  • Ability to exercise good judgment and discretion in busy and occasionally high-stress situations.
  • Familiarity with Microsoft Excel.

Eligibility

It is expected that this position will be supported by the Canada Summer Jobs Program. As such, applicants must meet the following requirements:  

  • Have been registered as full-time students in the current academic year and intend to return to school on a full-time basis in September 2018;
  • Be between the ages of 15 and 30 at the start of employment;
  • Be a Canadian citizen, permanent resident, or persons who have been granted refugee status in Canada;
  • Be legally entitled to work according to provincial legislation and possess a valid Social Insurance Number; and
  • Not be in receipt of Employment Insurance (EI) benefits at the start of the job.

Applicants are asked to submit a resume and cover letter to [email protected] no later than Friday, April 27 Only those candidates contacted for an interview will be notified.

Capital Pride is committed to the principles of employment equity. Applications from all qualified candidates are welcome; in particular, applications are encouraged from racialized people, Indigenous people, people with disabilities, queer and trans people, and women.

Events, Marketing and Communications Coordinator

Capital Pride is seeking a summer intern to fill the role of Marketing Coordinator and help plan and execute the 2018 Capital Pride Festival. The Coordinator will assist developing marketing materials, producing the annual pride guide and managing social media channels.

Position Type: Summer Contract
 4 months, Month, April 30 – Friday, August 31, 2018

Hours of Work: 35 hours/week
 Some evening and weekend work will be required.
 The successful applicant must be available for Festival Week: Sunday, August 19
to Sunday, August 26, 2018.  

Rate of Pay $16 per hour

Job Description

Event Coordination
  • Assist with the execution of our events, including co-branded community events, media launch, sponsor reception, family and youth events, pride pageant, networking events, festival weekend, and parade.
  • Assist with the planning of various event components, including guestlist and invitations, venues, speakers and entertainment, food and beverage, photography and videography, accommodation and transportation, health and safety, and marketing.
Marketing
  • Assist in the development of a marketing strategy to promote the Festival throughout Ottawa including online marketing, traditional marketing (newspapers, radio) and through promotional campaigns and community outreach.
  • Implement a marketing strategy to promote the Festival in key tourism markets throughout Ontario and Quebec.
  • Assist the Festival Producer with the development of communications materials including text for websites, Pride Guide content and written text for marketing materials.   
  • Work with graphics designer to develop promotional materials and all collateral.
  • Work with the Festival Director to develop communication materials and event signage required for the Festival.
Social Media
  • Coordinating the Festival’s bilingual social media strategy including developing a social media calendar, scheduling and posting content and monitoring social media platforms.
  • Lead the Festival volunteer social media team and supervise on-site photographers and videographers during the Festival.
  • Monitor the Festival’s general email inbox and social media accounts to respond to inquiries from community groups and festival attendees.
Media Relations
  • Work with the Media Relations volunteer lead to develop a media relations strategy including identifying opportunities to engage the media, draft media releases and monitor media mentions.
  • Coordinate media requests from both English and French media including conducting background research, scheduling interviews and preparing media messaging for spokespeople.
Other
  • Prepare a Communications Report following the Festival that includes a summary of all communications materials, media mentions and social media strategy.
  • Support other members of the Festival Team with general tasks as they arise.

Qualifications   

  • Member of, or ally to, the LGBTQ2 community and a commitment to operating within an anti-oppressive work framework.
  • Knowledge of, and/or experience working or volunteering in, the LGBTQ2 community
  • Experience managing social media channels for other organizations
  • Ability to exercise good judgment and discretion in busy and occasionally high-stress situations.
  • Bilingualism is strongly preferred
  • Familiarity with Adobe Creative Suite is an asset

Eligibility

It is expected that this position will be supported by the Canada Summer Jobs Program. As such, applicants must meet the following requirements:  

  • Have been registered as full-time students in the current academic year and intend to return to school on a full-time basis in September 2018;
  • Be between the ages of 15 and 30 at the start of employment;
  • Be a Canadian citizen, permanent resident, or persons who have been granted refugee status in Canada;
  • Be legally entitled to work according to provincial legislation and possess a valid Social Insurance Number; and
  • Not be in receipt of Employment Insurance (EI) benefits at the start of the job.

Applicants are asked to submit a resume and cover letter to [email protected] no later than Friday, April 27 Only those candidates contacted for an interview will be notified.

Capital Pride is committed to the principles of employment equity. Applications from all qualified candidates are welcome; in particular, applications are encouraged from racialized people, Indigenous people, people with disabilities, queer and trans people, and women.

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More information

[email protected]
613-680-3033