Though last year’s inaugural Dyke March will be hard to beat, coordinator Brianne Langille boasts a full line-up of activity and buzz, slated to hit the Century Gardens on Saturday, September 3rd.

This year’s march will start at noon in Shaw Millennium Park, travel down Stephen Avenue and climax in the Gardens with a "musical celebration of Dyke identity" featuring live shows as well as a variety of spoken word performances.

"I think we’re just seeing the tip of the iceberg as far as talent from queer women in this city," says Langille, warmly referred to as the Dyke in charge by her cohorts. "...this year, you’re going to see a lot of diversity and a lot of passion."

A rumour has also circulated that "a woman who has been in the news a lot lately" might be making an appearance.

Last year’s march saw a grand total of 200 dykes and allies come out for the event.  This year Langille hopes to see many more.

"Our goal is to provide a space that any queer female, trans inclusive, can feel safe and proud to be themselves and bring their family and friends," she says.

A year and a half ago it dawned on Langille that Calgary was ready for a Dyke March – an annual event that would showcase artists and activists from all backgrounds, abilities and nations. And so the event, based on visibility, community, and respect, was born.  It sent a message to all dykes everywhere: you are not alone. You have a space. Here is a march in which you may be visible in that space and loudly demand the respect you deserve every single day.

The Dyke March is not a parade, but a demonstration. In addition to celebrating queer women, the event seeks to demonstrate against the discrimination, harassment and homophobia that queer women face. The march is inclusive of women of all ages, those questioning gender constructs and those who are gender fluid.

The members composing the Dyke March committee itself speak to this desire for diversity, inclusion and representation of sexual and gender minority within the event. Of the four ladies, Langille, the event’s catalyst, is a trans dyke while another committee member is bisexual.

Unfortunately, as far as representing of ethnic minorities, Langille is sad to says she has yet to receive feedback.  "We would love to hear how we can make this event more inclusive and welcoming to every queer woman and ally out there!" she states.

This year’s march will be entirely funded by the community, thanks to the huge success of this past May fundraiser, and funds remaining from last year’s fundraising efforts.

"Our mandate is to focus on the equality, visibility, and respect for queer women in this city," Langille says. "We feel the best way to do this is by empowering the community to fund this event and avoiding corporate sponsorship."

Following last year’s March, Langille was inundated with touching words from the community.

"During the Pride Parade I had people, including community leaders, coming to me and thanking me for bringing this important event to Calgary," she describes. "It touched my heart in ways I didn’t think possible."

Resounding media response was another accolade for which the event is proud to have brandished.

"I think a lot of the media attention was [received] because it was a first for Calgary and that we were using such a controversial word," Langille explains. "I’m sure it was the first time a lot of Calgarians heard the word dyke used in a positive way."

If you are interested in coming out and helping or supporting the Dyke March this September, you will be more than welcome. Langille says the event can always use more volunteers. Marshals and security will be required for the musical performances, and sign makers are needed prior to the March starting. Interested sign makers are asked to meet at Shaw Millennium Park half an hour prior to the noon hour walk-off.

The Dyke March committee also welcomes growth.

"Right now we only have four committee members.  I think it would be awesome to have a couple more committee members for next year so we can continually improve and grow the March!" says Langille.