Stories From the Trails: Banff Businesses Committed to Supporting Pride

Banff and Lake Louise Tourism members are demonstrating their commitment to inclusivity by supporting Banff Pride during the annual fall festival and also year-round. Through partnerships and initiatives, businesses are working with Banff Pride to foster an environment where diversity in the Canadian Rockies is celebrated every day. The goal is ensuring Banff and Lake Louise as thriving places to live, work, and play.

“The festival is just one element of what we’re doing these days,” shared Jeffrey Carpenter, Executive Director at Banff Pride. ”What the community needs is members supporting throughout the year.”

Pursuit Banff Jasper’s Commitment to Inclusivity

Pursuit Banff Jasper Collection’s support has always been enthusiastic, Jeffrey says. The business has become one of Banff Pride’s most dedicated year-round sponsors, with the team jumping on board and finding meaningful ways to participate that align with their business’ values.

For four years now, Pursuit has hosted Mountaintop Pride, a standout highlight of the Banff Pride festival. This event takes Pride celebrations to new heights—literally—on top of Sulphur Mountain at the Banff Gondola, helping engage visitors and the local community with Pride.
As well as hosting this event, Pursuit has also donated five dollars from every gondola lift ticket sold on both weekends of the festival over the past couple of years.

“Here at Pursuit Banff Jasper we are proud to support Banff Pride”, says Stuart Back COO, Banff Jasper Collection and Board Member at Banff & Lake Louise Tourism. “Our commitment champions the LGBTQ+ community, which is important to our team culture and an important part of our work to ensure inclusivity of our guests and team members.”

Their support continues past the festival with programming and sponsorships that allow Banff Pride to support the local queer community.

Brewing Community with Banff Ave Brewing Co.

Another valued partner is Banff Ave Brewing Co. Beyond their participation in the annual Banff Pride Festival, the business has consistently provided a welcoming space for connection with their Beers for Queers events - a monthly gathering that’s open to everyone. These events have become a regular for many locals, offering a casual and inclusive space for friendship, laughter, and celebration.

Chris Paul, General Manager at Banff Ave Brewing Co., is proud of their commitment to Banff Pride.

“We’re dedicated to cultivating a diverse, inclusive, and equitable environment,” Chris says. “Our goal is to build community through quality craft products and locally inspired experiences. From the moment our employees and guests walk through our doors, we work to create a warm and welcoming atmosphere for all to enjoy.”

Many other businesses in Banff are stepping up to show their commitment to Banff Pride by creating a supportive community. Here are some:

SkiBig3 has been selling Pride t-shirts at the Adventure Hub, with proceeds supporting Banff Pride, and hosting a vibrant Pride Ski Day at Norquay. Beatnik Salon offers gender free haircuts, creating an affirming space for all, while Wildflour Café proudly displays pride flags and art in their windows, sparking visibility on the streets of this mountain town.

Jeffrey shares that these and other businesses have consistently been open to feedback, and that’s played a crucial role in expanding and strengthening the events in support of Pride and the LGBTQIA+ community.

What can BLLT Members do to Support: Show Your Pride!

• Self-Reflection: Take a closer look at your business practices and policies. Consider developing or enhancing a DEI (Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion) strategy to create a welcoming environment for all. There are plenty of resources available and workshops hosted by the Bow Valley Pride Network.
  
• Review Your Communications: Does your organization have a newsletter or regular communication channels? Use them to express your support for Banff Pride and the LGBTQIA+ community by sharing stories, resources, or updates about your involvement with Pride initiatives.
  
• Decorate Your Space: Display Pride symbols in your windows or around your business. Whether it’s a small rainbow sticker or flag these gestures matter to the LGBTQIA+ community and visitors. “A rainbow sticker in a window might seem like something from the early 2000s, but for someone visiting who doesn’t speak the language, it goes a long way in signaling that this is a welcoming place,” Jeffrey says.
  
• Celebrate in a Way That Fits Your Business: Tailor your efforts and events to what feels authentic for you and your business.

BLLT is a dedicated sponsor of Banff Pride and the 10-Year Vision for Tourism emphasizes the importance of championing an industry and community that is welcoming, safe, and inclusive.

“Each year, Banff Pride and the leadership of the 2SLGBTQIA+ community continue to grow, with robust support from local businesses enhancing the festival. Together, we're actively building inclusivity in our World Heritage Site, and we'll continue to learn from our visitors and partners to ensure that everyone feels a true sense of belonging here,” says Kristina Macdonald, Director, Events, BLLT.

The Banff Pride festival is back this fall from October 4 to 14. There are multiple, exciting events hosted by BLLT member businesses happening throughout the destination to share with your staff and visitors. See you there!

Banff Pride Festival Schedule

Stories from the Trails is a series sharing learning, success, and insights, from our members and partners as we journey together towards the 10-Year Vision for Tourism. This story embodies the Community Wellbeing trail.

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Share your story! What initiatives are happening in your business or organization that support our shared vision for tourism? Email us!