PRIDE 🏳️‍🌈

Written By Danielle Swanson

A Legacy of Protest, Power & Belonging.


Each June, we honour Pride—not just as a celebration, but as a powerful continuation of a movement born out of resistance, led by the courageous voices of those most marginalized.

Pride has its roots in protest. The Stonewall Uprising of 1969, a pivotal moment in LGBTQIA2S+ history, was ignited by queer folks—many of whom were Black and brown trans women—who stood up against police violence, systemic injustice, and societal erasure. What followed was a global ripple effect that laid the foundation for queer liberation movements as we know them today.

It’s important to remember that Pride was not born from a parade. It began with bricks thrown, with voices raised, and with communities saying “enough.” And while we now celebrate with colour, music, and joy—this joy is an act of resilience. It is the result of generations who fought to simply be seen and heard.

In many parts of the world, queerness is still criminalized. Being out can mean persecution, violence, or worse. Even here at home, many are still forced to hide who they are in order to stay safe.

That’s why Pride matters. Not just for queer people, but for allies, for families, for anyone who believes in justice and belonging. It’s a time to show up, speak out, and celebrate the sacredness of being fully ourselves.

As we reflect on the lineage of Pride, we must also look around us—at the intersections of queerness and race, ability, neurodivergence, gender identity, economic status. True inclusivity means holding space for it all, and lifting each other up in every intersection we occupy. Being loud in support—especially when it’s hard—will always carry more power than silence.

As a queer entrepreneur, I carry these truths into my business every single day. I strive to make Full Circle Movement Studios not just a place to move, but a place to feel safe, seen, and celebrated. Whether you’re here for yourself, your child, your partner, your friend—know that this space is built for connection and healing. Sometimes it’s the little things—a rainbow sticker, a warm smile, a moment of inclusion—that remind us we’re not alone.

So this Pride, we honour the past. We root into the present. And we rise toward a future where no one has to question if they belong.

In many parts of the world, queerness is still criminalized. Being out can mean persecution, violence, or worse. Even here at home, many are still forced to hide who they are in order to stay safe.

That’s why Pride matters. Not just for queer people, but for allies, for families, for anyone who believes in justice and belonging. It’s a time to show up, speak out, and celebrate the sacredness of being fully ourselves.

As we reflect on the lineage of Pride, we must also look around us—at the intersections of queerness and race, ability, neurodivergence, gender identity, economic status. True inclusivity means holding space for it all, and lifting each other up in every intersection we occupy. Being loud in support—especially when it’s hard—will always carry more power than silence.

🌈 PRIDE PROMO – JUNE 9–14 🌈
 Celebrate Okotoks Pride Week with movement, community, and resilience at Full Circle!

We’re honouring the power of inclusivity and expression with a limited-time sale on our most popular passes and memberships:

✨ 20% OFF
 – All 5, 10, and 20 Mat Fitness class passes
– 5 + 10 Reformer Pilates class passes
– Your first month of Unlimited Memberships

Use code PRIDE20 at checkout (in studio, online, or in the app!)
Offer valid June 9–14 only

This offer excludes intro passes, combo passes, annual memberships, Youth Memberships and class-based monthly memberships.
See full pass terms and details on our website or app.

📍We're proud to support and celebrate Okotoks Pride Week and all of the amazing community events happening across town. Link to events
📍Enter the True Colours Rainbow Alliance Quilt Raffle HERE!

Move your body. Feel your power. Celebrate love in all forms.

Resources and organizations - 

Danielle Swanson https://www.lolafrost.com
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