March with Pride

Since 2012, Mount Royal University has partnered with Calgary Pride to celebrate love, acceptance, inclusion and the 2SLGBTQIA+ community at the annual Calgary Pride Parade.

Calgary Pride is a not-for-profit organization that exists to promote equality and celebrate Calgary’s diversity. Their vision is a city free from discrimination against gender identity, gender expression and sexual orientation.

As a long-time proud sponsor of the Pride Parade, MRU is pleased to invite all to join the MRU Pride Parade contingent on Aug. 31 and to take part in festival events from Aug. 30 to 31 at Prince’s Island Park.

This is a great opportunity to start the academic year by celebrating 2SLBGTQIA+ students, faculty and emploees, demonstrating Mount Royal’s commitment to community and belonging.

Find your MRU Pride swag at the Cougars Campus Store.

Learn more about mru.ca/Pride.

Pride matters

Dr. Tim Rahilly, PhD
President and Vice-Chancellor
Mount Royal University

“People participate in PRIDE for all kinds of reasons. For some it’s a political statement, for others it’s a party. For me, PRIDE is a celebration and affirmation of diverse identities. I celebrate my own journey to my identity as a gay man and remember what it was like to be scared and closeted. When I see fellow members of the 2SLGBTQIA+ community gathering along with our many and awesome allies, I am filled with hope for the next generation. Speaking of allies, PRIDE is as much for them as anyone else! Big thank you to all the allies who support their loved ones. This year, I want to give a special shout-out to the trans folks, their families and chosen families. I stand with you all!”

Gloria Sesay
Bachelor of Arts — Psychology (Honours)
Pride and Healthy Relationships Coordinator
SAMRU Pride Centre

"Pride is both a way to celebrate the 2SLGBTQ+ community and to commemorate those who have endlessly trailblazed to create the community that exists today. Participating in the Pride Parade is a way for us to support students and let them know they are valued within the Students' Association and greater MRU community."

Ace Rodriguez
Personal Fitness Trainer Diploma
Queer & Trans Fitness Professional CSEP-CPT
Every BODY Stronger

"Pride matters because it celebrates every person’s right to live authentically, without fear or shame. It honours the struggles and achievements of our queer and trans ancestors who fought for the rights we have today. Pride also serves as a reminder that the fight for collective freedom is ongoing — because none of us are truly free until all of us are free. That’s why diversity within our communities is so important. By embracing our differences, we foster greater understanding, compassion, and strength, creating spaces where everyone can thrive, feel seen, and find belonging."

MRU 2SLGBTQIA+ supports and resources

The Students’ Association of Mount Royal University's (SAMRU) Pride Centre is dedicated to fostering a safe, inclusive, and celebratory environment for people of all genders and sexual orientations and holds regular events throughout the academic year.

SAMRU’s Peer Support Centre is a transformative community based upon shared dignity, caring, and trust. The new After-Hours Peer Support Centre offers free, confidential, compassionate and non-judgmental support for any student in crisis or distress outside of regular working hours and often when it is needed most.

Wellness Services provides a number of resources to those requiring assistance, including sexual health resources.

The Destined Changemaker Award is funded by Calgary Pride and is intended to assist 2SLGBTQIA+ community members who wish to continue their education while reducing barriers to education and strengthening its commitment to diversity, inclusion, and equality. The award of up to $5,000 goes to two deserving full-time students entering their first year of any degree program at Mount Royal University, with a preference for those students from rural communities who may have additional obstacles. Donate to the Destined Changemaker Award.