Two years after the partial decriminalization of homosexuality, hundreds of queer Canadians gathered at Hanlan’s Point. What began as a picnic became part of the foundation of Pride in Canada.
The First Pride
About the Author: Nico
Nico Mara-McKay (they/iel) is a historian, writer, editor, and occasional curator whose work focuses on histories of gender and sexuality through lenses of embodiment and identity. They write about queer and trans history, culture, and community at nicomaramckay.com and ephemeralrecord.com, and share updates on Bluesky @nicomaramckay.com.
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Update for August 2026
Update for August: July was a lot of fun! I wrapped up five community consultations with at least three more planned for the fall, made progress on two archival projects, and I'm hoping to get back into a regular rhythm with these newsletters.
Update for July 2026
An update, because June was busier than expected! Queer Canada will be continuing on a more sustainable schedule. I'm travelling across Canada for community consultations, and I have two new exciting archival projects to share.
Rainbow Senior’s Pride 2026
Tabelling for The ArQuives at Rainbow Senior’s Pride, which was held at the Rekai Centre in Toronto on Saturday, 13 June 2026.