Join us on Friday May 26, 2023!
Our History
Our story begins in 2005, with the legacy of Pride Scarborough. That year, they hosted a Valentine’s Day dance party - the first queer/trans dance in Scarborough (to our knowledge).
​
Scarborough Pride was active from 2005 to 2009, with annual events at the Scarborough Civic Centre, a marching contingent in the parades, and the first official Pride flag-raising at the Civic Centre in 2007.
​
After a hiatus resulting from staff turnover at various agencies, the collective re-emerged in 2014 as the East Side Pride Collective after consultations with youth advisory committees identified the need for network specific to Scarborough.
Festivals in Albert Campbell Square
Since 2014, East Side Pride has hosted 8 Pride festivals and one youth conference. These events have been an opportunity to gather in our own community to celebrate with live music, performances, and public BBQs. We’re there to party, but also to raise visibility and awareness that there is a vibrant, diverse and proud community of queer and trans folks in Scarborough.
​
In 2017, we were proud to hold the first-ever Trans Pride flag raising with the support of city councillors and officials.
While we were not able to gather in person in 2020 and 2021 due to the pandemic, we remained invested in support 2SLGBTQIA identities and we recognize the ongoing need for inclusive and affirming celebrations in east Toronto.
​
In 2022, we are thrilled to partner with Pride Toronto for the first time to grow our celebrations as we return to an in-person festival on June 10th.
​
Meet the Member Agencies
East Side Pride is a network organization, run by youth-serving agencies in Scarborough who offer services to 2SLGBTQ+ communities.
Lumenus Community Services
The Studio is an inclusive, youth-driven drop-in centre that openly celebrates 2SLGBTQ+ youth and youth of colour. It is a safe place for all youth to express themselves, build community, access one-on-one support and have fun!
studio@lumenus.ca | 416-482-0081
Malvern Family Resource Centre
Virtual group counselling for 2SLGBTQA+ youth who are 16 to 29 years old. Build friendships, share stories and celebrate your identities.
​
416-284-4184
Strides Toronto
A queer and trans drop-in youth program offering interactive activities including arts, games, music, discussion and guest speakers.
​
Ages 12-24. Thursdays 5-8pm.
east.qrew@gmail.com | 416-438-3697 Ext. 12405
Toby's Place
A weekly drop-in program for 2SLGBTQIA+ youth, folks questioning their gender and/or sexuality, and friends and allies.
​
29 yrs and under. Mondays 3:30-7pm
tobys.place33@gmail.com | 647-915-2475
YouthLink
Informal one-on-one counselling and group activities including group chats and hanging out with other 2SLGBTQ young people for friendship and support.
​
Ages 13-24. Alternating Tuesdays.
info@youthlink.ca | 416-967-1773 ext. 222