Missing craft fairs and the chance to support local makers and artists? In late April, Pride, Not Prejudice returns for its second virtual event! The fair’s founder, Kaitlynne-Rae Landry, began Pride, Not Prejudice in 2020. Kaitlynne-Rae, along with many members of the progressive community, no longer had a safe space to showcase their creations after the Ottawa-based, Feminist Fair, had to cancel their festival due to COVID-19. After seeing other members of the progressive community upset because of this, Kaitlynne-Rae said she was “inspired…to see what [she] could do to try and keep the spirit alive, even with the pandemic.” 

Pride, Not Prejudice aims to give space to “queer, racialized, disabled, and otherwise marginalized vendors and artists...to highlight their work and experience.” At times, as a queer maker herself, Kaitlynne-Rae faced censorship. Her business, Ifs, Ands or Buttons and her products have been censored from markets for “being too controversial.” This is a reality for many marginalized makers, and Pride, Not Prejudice hopes to bring more representation to the artist and vendor community.

Not only does the fair showcase crafts by socially conscious makers, but it also offers community resources and workshops. Participants are welcome to check out a series of virtual workshops throughout the weekend, including writing and fashion, and how to talk about consent. As well, there is a Community Resource Fair, which lives on the Pride, Not Prejudice website. 

Kaitlynne-Rae says community is at the heart of everything Pride, Not Prejudice is doing. A portion of the event’s proceeds will be donated to a community cause. The community nominates different initiatives and participating vendors vote on them. 

Pride, Not Prejudice gives the option for local pickup or to ship all your purchases in one package, offering a flat fee for shipping. Check it out Thursday, April 22nd at 5PM through until Sunday, April 25th at 6PM. Find more details here. 

Image Credit: Pride, Not Prejudice