2011 Annual Community Parades Project
Edmonton Branch
Edmonton Branch received a Dominion grant of $500 for parades in 2011, which was used to purchase magnetic signage, banners, gasoline, and bookmarks used in the three parades entered:
- the Leduc Rodeo parade, on April 30;
- the St. Albert Rodeo parade, on May 28; and
- Fort Saskatchewan on Canada Day (July 1).
“To enrich the lives of Albertans through fostering public awareness of our national history, and, in particular, of the United Empire Loyalists and their contributions to Canada.”
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Ivy Trumpour, UE, organized and coordinated the parades project. Costumed members and several guests participated in each parade, helping to decorate a half-ton truck with new magnetic signs — “The Loyalists. Because they were loyal, we are Canadian” — on each door, and new banners — “United Empire Loyalist Association of Canada – Edmonton Branch” — on each side. A Loyalist flag and a Mohawk flag flew from the back corners of the truck box or were carried by walking participants, and a red, white and blue bunting was brought for the end gate.
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Several participants rode in the back of the truck, while others walked behind, and UE flags were carried by those not handing out approximately 2,000 new bookmarks to interested people in the crowds. There was a lot of interaction with the crowds and the Branch entry won a “First Prize” certificate for “Best Community Group” float in the Fort Saskatchewan parade.
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The entry in at least one parade was also televised in news coverage, and many people in the crowds captured the entry in videos.
Heather Traub
Vice-President
Edmonton Branch, UELAC