PRIDE – Large turnout expected for parade through downtown Sunday

Hundreds are expected at the “Out in the Street” march by the LGBTQ2S+ community Sunday (Aug. 20).

Following speeches at 10:45 a.m., the parade will begin from Riverside Park in front of the bandshell at 11, taking marchers up Victoria Street, down Fifth Avenue and back to the park along Lansdowne.

“This parade has been months in the making and we’re ready for the visual display of the diversity we know exists in the city of Kamloops,” said Kamloops Pride President Kirstin McLaughlin.

The organization received an official message from Prime Minister Justin Trudeau earlier this month, congratulating the organizers and volunteers working to plan the event.

In attendance at the parade will be Vancouver’s British Consul General Nicole Davison and her partner, Karen.

“We have people registered to march from all corners of the community, as well as people travelling to Kamloops from cities throughout B.C.,” said McLaughlin.

“The parade is an opportunity for celebration and we encourage all Kamloops residents to register to march or watch the parade on Sunday in support of this historic event.”

Residents are asked to refrain from parking on Victoria Street from First to Fifth Avenues, on Fifth Avenue between Victoria and Lansdowne and along Lansdowne on Sunday morning, as road closures will be in effect.  One lane will remain open along Lansdowne and bus service won’t be interrupted.

Registration remains open online for individuals and people can register in-person from 10-10:30 a.m. on the morning of the parade.  For more information, go to the Kamloops Pride Facebook page or kamloopspride.wixsite.com/kamloopspride.