(rdnewsNOW/Ashley Lavallee-Koenig)

By rdnewsNOW staff

March 24-29

RDP to hold on-campus activities during Pride week

Mar 22, 2025 | 10:44 AM

Red Deer Polytechnic, the Students’ Association, and Pride on Campus Student Group have partnered to bring a series of on-campus events during Pride week from March 24 to 29.

It all begins on March 24 with a flag raising ceremony outside the main entrance of the main campus at RDP.

“At RDP, we want to ensure that everyone feels safe to be who they are, without fear. The institution’s campuses belong to all of us and should be places where one’s personal truth is celebrated,” says Jacq Patterson, President of the Students’ Association of Red Deer Polytechnic.

“Each individual within the 2SLGBTQIA+ community brings a unique perspective to our campuses. Their stories enrich our student body in ways that make us all better. The diversity of experiences and identities within the LGBTQIA2S+ community are essential. It helps us foster creativity, empathy and understanding, shaping a more inclusive environment for all of us.”

Red Deer Polytechnic supports members of the 2SLGBTQIA+ community throughout each year by celebrating Pride Month in June. This is the second year RDP has held events during Pride week in hopes of recognizing more students.

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Other activities happening tha day includes a Pride Fair featuring opportunities to learn about the Pride community, as well as supports available for 2SLGBTQIA+ community members at RDP.

In addition, there will be Pride pin-making and dreamcatcher making, as well as discussions and workshops that include topics such as allyship, intersectionality, and peer support. Also, a Queer Prom where everyone is invited to join the party.

Some of the other events happening throughout the week includes opportunities for people to make friendship bracelets and other Pride crafts in RDP’s Library.

Those interested will also get the opportunity to write a message to their younger self to be added to a patchwork quilt. Tables will be also be set up across campus to contribute messages to the quilt.

Meanwhile, the Gary W. Harris Canada Games Centre on main campus will be illuminated in rainbow colours each night.

“We are excited to co-host this series of Pride Week events with our partners in the Students’ Association,” says Lindsay Engel, Vice President, Academic and Student Success at Red Deer Polytechnic.

“Together, we all play a role in creating a teaching and learning environment in which our students, faculty and staff who are members of the 2SLGBTQIA+ community feel represented. Pride Week represents another opportunity on our campuses for meaningful dialogue and greater understanding among our Polytechnic community members to learn with, and from, one another.”

For a full ist of activities, including date and times, that will be held during the week visit their website.

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