2024 June Pride Month in a Pink Tutu in Ottawa

By Emma, your resident tutu-wearing, disco-loving, glitter-obsessed blogger

Oh darling, can you believe it's June already? Time really does fly when you're busy twirling in pink tutus, doesn't it? But speaking of June, it’s time for the BIG one – Pride Month! And this year, my fabulous friends, I'm making a grand entrance right here in the heart of Ottawa, the nation's capital. I'm talking all things pink, sparkly, and brimming with rainbow pride!

Now, you know I'm not afraid to express myself. So, of course, I had to choose the most flamboyant outfit for celebrating this important month: a magnificent pink tutu. Yep, that's right! I'm embracing all things girly, twirling into the streets of Ottawa and spreading love, joy, and glitter galore. It's my way of showing support and solidarity with my LGBTQ+ family, and, let's be honest, a pink tutu in the sunshine? It’s a definite statement piece.

Before I start to get all giddy about sequins and the incredible sense of community we experience at Pride, let’s rewind to the morning, shall we?

The air is electric. I’m surrounded by boxes brimming with colourful fabrics – a veritable rainbow explosion in my flat. You see, I'm not just sporting my own signature pink tutu; I’ve spent the past few weeks crafting the most fabulous rainbow tutu ensemble for the Pride march. Think layers of soft tulle in all the colours of the rainbow, complete with sequined patches and glittering beads. Honestly, this thing is like a kaleidoscope come to life. It’s the very definition of "let's get loud!"

After much faffing and fussing with make-up and hair (my best disco-inspired glam – because Pride, darling, is an event for the ages!) it’s time to go! I’m making my way through the streets, where every other person is in some fantastic costume. This is the best thing about Pride; the way we celebrate freedom, joy, and individual expression by throwing out the rule book. We’re seeing superheroes next to kittens, punk rock gods marching next to fluffy bears, and all sorts of fabulous folk expressing themselves to the max!

There is such an air of unity, and love. It's infectious and brings a tear to my eye. The world may throw so many hurdles our way, but seeing this incredible community come together, standing up for their rights and expressing their identity so beautifully? Well, that just fills me with so much joy and pride.

And of course, the music is out of this world! Imagine it, darling. The pulsating rhythm of disco hits filling the air, while everyone throws their heart and soul into every movement and beat. My heart can’t help but tap its own rhythm.

Speaking of music, did I tell you that my darling friend, Olivia, who plays a mean electric guitar, joined the Pride parade? We spent the last few weeks practicing together, crafting a repertoire of high-energy disco-pop songs for the occasion. Olivia, she is the epitome of fabulous, in a head-to-toe, shimmery silver outfit.

Her performance? Absolute perfection! Her fingers flew over the strings as she strummed chords and soloed, filling the space with sound, energy and, dare I say, a touch of rock and roll. You could see the audience losing themselves in the music, dancing and swaying along to the melody, bathed in a vibrant symphony of rainbow colours.

By the time we reach Parliament Hill, I'm practically giddy with excitement! I'm soaking it all in; the vibrant atmosphere, the music, the joy, the laughter and, of course, all the colourful tutus! Honestly, I think there must be a tutu for every occasion here!

For the moment, however, all eyes are fixed on the speakers. It's time for the main event! The speeches are inspiring and powerful, but I have to admit, there are tears in my eyes at certain moments – tears of pride, of course!

What strikes me the most is how everyone listens so attentively. It's not just the speeches that echo through the crowds, it's the stories and experiences that everyone holds dear to their hearts, woven through every message and every gesture. The crowd is a tapestry of people from all walks of life; every identity, every background, all united under the flag of pride.

Pride Month is about so much more than just a few fun days. It’s about building bridges, forging connections, creating a world where everyone is celebrated and accepted. And it is about holding up a mirror to society, showing how we can and should embrace inclusivity and understanding, no matter who you are or what you believe.

So, if you happen to be reading this, take it from me – wearing a tutu at Pride, with a touch of glitter, a sprinkle of sunshine, and an overflowing dose of love, it's the perfect way to celebrate this very special month.

Because Pride, darling, isn't just a month, it’s an attitude. It’s about expressing ourselves fully, embracing individuality, and spreading joy.

But remember, Pride shouldn't be restricted to one month. This vibrant and powerful energy, this passion for unity and celebrating who we are, this love – it needs to exist every single day! Let’s make our voices heard, let’s fight for a future where love and respect win out every single day, and let’s all remember that no matter who we are, what we love, or what makes our hearts sing, we belong here.

Go forth, spread love, wear your sparkle and most of all, embrace your inner twirling queen – I’ll be doing the same!

Stay fabulous and I’ll see you in the spotlight, darling!

Love, Emma

P.S. Don't forget to follow my blog for all the latest updates and photos from Pride. I’ll be posting plenty of fun pictures and maybe even a video or two!