I remember the year 2006 in particular because all my friends were at other Pride festivities but I had to stay behind because I had to interview Deko-ze for bpm:tv, the music channel I used to host my music video show “Electronica” on. I was staying at a friend’s place that lived in the core of The Village and I remember walking alone to Wellesley and Church Streets where the interview was to take place. I felt shy and awkward as I walked alone down Church Street. It was extremely busy with proud Pride festival party-goers so I guess being alone, for the first time in such a large party space about to do an interview amongst hundreds of onlookers, had me shaken up a bit.
I trotted down Church Street in my pink and white strappy heels and denim capris, with a pink and white scarf tied around my waist, and one of my favourite pinup girl graphic T’s. Once I arrived at the shoot location the crew was waiting for me and we soon had Deko-ze wearing next to nothing except his black leather harness and metal studded jock strap (to keep it all in place) ready to go.
As hundreds of onlookers looked, yelled and screamed during the interview it became apparent to me there was nothing to feel shy about. This is where I belonged. These people were my people. This was home.
World Pride marks my fifth consecutive year hosting a stage at Pride Toronto. This year I host two stages: Saturday June 28th the OLG DJ & Diva Central Stage and Sunday June 29th the Bud Light Dirty Disco South Stage. I am the only straight female Pride host who has hosted this many consecutive stages at Pride. I am also the face for Links of London’s Rainbow Friendship Bracelet, only available at Holt Renfrew.
Talk about coming a long way from feeling “shy” by simply walking down the street alone.
Pride, to me, is a time where we can present our true self to the world with no judgement. It’s about acceptance and belonging, no matter where you live, what your job title is, the car you drive or your annual income. It’s a free spirit; a joy in celebration with those amongst you who want to express themselves as freely as you do.
Be proud this year as we celebrate World Pride and don’t be afraid to “Rise Up”!
LINKS:
Click here to get to the Facebook event page!
Miss Raquel – EDM TOR
