The Community Foundation of Southeastern Alberta (CFSEA), in partnership with the Prairie Pride Guild, is presenting a free community screening of Pride vs. Prejudice: The Delwin Vriend Story on Thursday, June 26, 2025, at 7 p.m. at the Monarch Theatre in Medicine Hat. Doors open at 6 p.m., with general admission seating until capacity is reached.
This powerful documentary, produced by Edmonton Community Foundation (ECF) and the Edmonton Queer History Project (EQHP), recounts the true story of Delwin Vriend, a lab instructor who was fired from his job in 1991 because of his sexual orientation. After Alberta’s human rights legislation failed to protect him, Vriend launched a legal challenge that reached the Supreme Court of Canada. In 1998, the court ruled in his favour, cementing protections for sexual orientation under the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms — a defining moment in Canadian human rights history.
Screening poster for Pride vs. Prejudice: The Delwin Vriend Story, at the Monarch Theatre
“Stories like Delwin Vriend’s continue to shape how we show up for one another in our own communities,” says Niki Gray, Executive Director at CFSEA. “We’re honoured to bring this film to Southeastern Alberta as part of our ongoing commitment to building strong, inclusive communities. Events like these are opportunities to reflect on where we’ve been and where we still need to go.”
Pride vs. Prejudice has been celebrated at film festivals around the world, earning multiple Audience Choice Awards for its compelling storytelling and cultural impact. The film features personal interviews, archival footage, and expert commentary — including from Supreme Court Justice Frank Iacobucci — that connect a landmark legal victory to today’s conversations about equity and inclusion.
“ECF is proud to partner with community foundations across the country to share Pride vs. Prejudice,” says Tina Thomas, CEO of Edmonton Community Foundation. “The Delwin Vriend case is not just Edmonton’s story — it’s Canada’s story. We hope these screenings spark reflection and dialogue, while also celebrating the resilience, advocacy, and joy of 2SLGBTQI+ communities.”
This screening is part of a national Pride Month initiative involving more than 20 community foundations across Canada. CFSEA is pleased to participate in this collaboration, helping bring this story to audiences in Southeastern Alberta.
Event Details
What: Screening of Pride vs. Prejudice: The Delwin Vriend Story
When: Thursday, June 26, 2025, at 7 p.m. (Doors open at 6 p.m.)
Where: Monarch Theatre, 609 2 St SE, Medicine Hat, AB
Admission: Free; seating is general admission and available until capacity is reached
For more information, please contact:
Emily Conley
grants@cfsea.ca
403.527.9038