Every year as Pride celebrations get underway and the Davie Street Village becomes the epicentre for all things loud and proud, over on the East Side, the Dyke March celebrates in its own way, taking to the streets.
The grassroots organization first strutted down Commercial Drive in 2004. The small gathering was put together through the volunteer efforts of seven women recognizing a need for greater visibility for women in the LGBTQ community. The inaugural walk saw only a few hundred participants, but now, in its 12th year, the Vancouver Dyke March and Festival Society present this staple Pride event, drawing thousands of women, allies, family and friends.
“The Dyke March gives women a place to come forward, meet interesting, like-minded people and play important roles in creating change within the community,” explains former VDM president Sam Levy.
Over the past decade, the event has seen a lot of change and growth. What started as a two-block saunter has evolved into a full-on march beginning at McSpadden Park, winding along half of The Drive to the festival site. Crowd-goers merge in Grandview Park for an afternoon of family fun where artisan vendors, drag performers and live music keep crowds entertained, all hosted by the hilarious Amy Wilding.
“People like the differentiation of an event in East Van,” Levy says.
The Dyke March wouldn’t be possible without its dedicated board of volunteers who meet monthly throughout the year.
Fundraising is imperative, and Diva’s Den – a women-for-women-centred strip show encouraging amateur performers to get on stage and let loose in a safe and supported environment – is a key financial contributor.
As sexuality and gender identity become more fluid, the historical relevance of the Dyke March is more important than ever. Maintaining the history of pride, visibility and family –the principles on which the march was built – is integral in the ongoing fight against homophobia and transphobia.
The Vancouver Dyke March starts at noon on Saturday, Aug. 1 at McSpadden Park, on Victoria Drive between East 4th and East 6th Avenue. ASL interpreters will be on site at the festival grounds at Grandview Park, and pets on leash are welcome, too.
