By Kezia Royer-Burkett, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter
The Halton Equity and Diversity Roundtable (HEDR) is returning with its 3rd Annual Pride Gala and Garden Soirée on June 26, 2025, promising an unforgettable evening of glamour, purpose, and advocacy at the Art Gallery of Burlington (AGB). This annual Pride Month celebration has quickly become a cornerstone event in Halton, centring joy, resilience, and the ongoing fight for equity.
HEDR Manager Daven Seebarran says the gala was born out of a need for celebration and deeper conversations. “We started the Pride Gala as a way to bring people together to celebrate, but also to spark real conversations about inclusion and systemic change,” Seebarran shared. “Each year it grows — not just in numbers, but in impact.”
This year’s lineup brings an international flair, with performances from Lolita Banana, the host of Drag Race Mexico, and Lady Kero, a celebrated Muxe performer featured in Netflix’s Secrets of the River. Muxe is a third gender for Zapotec people. Seebarran says the spotlight on Mexican artists is intentional. “We wanted to counter the anti-trans, anti-immigrant, and anti-Mexican sentiment circulating in parts of North America. These performers embody pride, artistry, and activism.”
Set against the creative backdrop of the Art Gallery of Burlington, the event continues its tradition of blending artistry with activism. “AGB is a huge supporter of HEDR,” Seebarran said. “It’s a place where art lives — and art is a powerful tool for change. It transcends words. It invites everyone into the conversation.”
Proceeds from this year’s gala will support HEDR’s Braver Spaces Certification Program, which aims to raise $10,000 to provide equity training and policy development support across the region. Seebarran explains that the 2SLGBTQIA+ community faces disproportionate harm in Halton — four times more than any other group. “We’re seeing this especially in areas like Oakville and Georgetown, where there’s a deeply rooted history of white supremacy,” he said. “Braver Spaces isn’t about optics — it’s about action. It gives organizations the tools to transform their spaces into safe, inclusive environments.”
The initiative is designed to have a ripple effect. “This isn’t just about LGBTQ+ folks,” Seebarran added. “The LGBTQ+ movement was born out of the civil rights movement. When one marginalized group benefits, we all benefit.”
Guests can expect a night of fine dining, show-stopping performances, and opportunities to connect with like-minded advocates. Ticket options include $25 general admission and $99 for the VIP dinner experience, with tables of eight available for $750. “What’s important to us is that this event remains accessible,” Seebarran emphasized. “This isn’t just for those who can afford it — it’s for the community.”
This year’s Pride Gala also coincides with the launch of sponsorship opportunities for Pride Halton, a region-wide celebration of 2SLGBTQIA+ pride in Burlington, Oakville, Georgetown, and Milton. Organized by PRISM Halton, the Pride Halton Parade and Pride in the Park will take place on July 20, 2025. The initiative is designed to build visibility and belonging across the region, making Halton a place where everyone can thrive.Tickets for the HEDR Pride Gala and Garden Soirée are available at: www.hedroundtable.com/events/pride-gala-garden-soiree.
