The first Pride was a riot against police brutality led by the most marginalized in the queer community, including homeless youth and trans women of color. Despite incredible civil rights victories in the decades that followed, queer and trans communities continue to face disproportionately high rates of discrimination and police violence. Black Lives Matter has made it possible to have mainstream conversations about removing uniformed police officers from Pride and defunding the police, investing instead in professionals trained in de-escalation and programs that reduce poverty. This year, because of COVID-19 we can't celebrate Pride by dancing in the streets, but we'll continue to fight for justice and equality.

Guests:

Andrea Houston [@dreahouston], executive assistant to MPP Jill Andrew, journalist for Xtra, and activist with Rainbow Railroad.

Adrienne Wu, Canadian fashion designer, contributing writer at Huffington Post, and activist with Supporting Our Youth.