Directed by Noam Gonick, Parade: Queer Acts of Love & Resistance follows the lengthy history of Canada’s 2SLGBTQI+ movement and celebrates the activists who fought for the rights that the community have today. Beginning during the time that the queer lifestyle was illegal, Gonick’s use of archival footage reveals how toxic the world had become. Police raids, public hatred and a seemingly endless stream of violence create a frontline over the rights and freedoms of an oppressed community.

At the same time though, Gonick focuses his lens on those who had the courage to stand up and speak out. From comedians to politicians, Parade gives voice to the men and women who fought for every inch of freedom. In this way, the film does a good job of chronicling the small moments with large effect. For example, Parade points out that, while Bill C-170 ‘decriminalized’ homosexuality, it still was not incorporated as a human right. Although this was an important moment, the film reminds us that it wasn’t the end of the battle.

In that spirit, Parade makes one thing abundantly clear. Although progress has been made, there is still much more work to be done. With the battle for the gay community constantly evolving, the film reminds the viewer of the political necessity of the gay pride parade. Although it has become a celebration of the 2SLGBTQIA+ community, Parade highlights the fact that the yearly event is intrinsically meant to be a moment of solidarity. It has always been a statement by the queer community of their value in the face of a culture that has tried to ignore them. This combination of grace and force serves as notice that the Parade isn’t just a moment of joy. It’s a reminder that Canada’s 2SLGBTQI+ movement will continue.

Parade: Queer Acts of Love & Resistance is playing at HotDocs ’25. For more information, click here.