It's June, the sun is shining, and Edmonton is positively bursting with pride! That's right, folks, it's Pride Month and this year I'm celebrating in style, as usual. Forget the predictable rainbows, I'm embracing the colour that truly represents my joyous spirit: pink! And what better way to do so than in a glorious, frilly pink tutu? It's time for #tututuesday, #tutupride, and a whole month of embracing individuality and spreading love.
This city has a unique energy around this time of year, you can feel it in the air. A kaleidoscope of colours fills the streets as everyone from the most fabulous drag queens to everyday Edmontonians proudly express their authentic selves. It's infectious! The spirit of inclusivity and acceptance radiates throughout the community.
For me, Pride is more than just a month-long festival. It's a year-round commitment to advocating for the LGBTQ+ community, and to celebrate the rich tapestry of our lives. And, of course, it's a fabulous excuse to unleash my inner disco diva and twirl around town in a fabulous pink tutu!
This year, I'm feeling particularly inspired. It seems like every corner of Edmonton is overflowing with vibrant art installations and murals celebrating diversity and queer identity. I can't help but be drawn to them, and to the stories they tell. Every time I walk by one, it fills me with a sense of hope and reminds me that we are not alone. We have a collective history to celebrate and a future to create.
Speaking of celebrating history, I can't forget about the fantastic Pride Parade! It's always an amazing spectacle of creativity, music, and pure joy. Thousands of people, from all walks of life, come together to march in solidarity and celebrate the progress we've made as a community. Seeing such a huge gathering of people, all united in love and acceptance, gives me goosebumps every time!
And this year's theme, "Love, acceptance, and inclusivity" perfectly reflects the spirit of this celebration. The atmosphere is infectious; a wave of pure, unadulterated joy washes over everyone. I am just filled with so much energy.
The energy is also definitely amplified by the soundtrack of the entire month - disco! This year, Edmontonās music scene seems to be embracing the retro-vibes with open arms. You can hear it echoing throughout the city, especially around Pride Village! Thereās nothing like dancing the night away to the sound of Donna Summer and ABBA. Every time the beat drops, I just want to spin around and lose myself in the moment. I feel like I can truly express my personality on the dance floor. Honestly, the whole month is one big, sparkly disco party. And why wouldnāt it be?! It's a celebration of all the good stuff in life ā friendship, love, and freedom!
This year, my friend Emily has organized an incredible Pride fashion show called āGlitter & Graceā where the focus is on individuality, self-expression, and creativity. Everyone, regardless of their background or experience, is invited to come along, showcase their style, and celebrate who they are. Naturally, I'm excited to be showcasing some fabulous pink looks. Can you believe it? Even the judging panel is looking for outfits that embody the essence of "Tutu Pride."
This kind of opportunity gives me so much confidence, especially for younger generations of the LGBTQ+ community. It encourages self-love and reminds people that they are valued and loved exactly as they are. Youāll never see me walk down the street with my head down. When youāre in a pink tutu you must embrace the opportunity to show off, I mean, come on.
So, for the month of June, put on your brightest colours, dance to the disco beat, and let's celebrate pride together! This is our moment to shine. Join me in embracing a little bit of "Tutu Pride," because every single day is an opportunity to make the world a brighter, bolder, and more fabulous place.
Here's to all the wonderful LGBTQ+ people, our families, and all our allies ā may you continue to find strength in your individuality, inspire each other, and shine brighter than ever before!
Until next time,
Emma x
P.S. Make sure to follow my blog, āEmmaās Tutu Talesā, for all my Pride updates and more tutu-licious outfits throughout the year! And donāt forget to follow me on Instagram @tutusanddisco!
