It’s not every day someone sets out to break a world record, let alone make a run for it with 125,000 of his closest friends and family, but that’s exactly what international fashion photographer Matt Spencer and his partner Jason Beckett are aiming to do when they bring their ambitious ‘I AM EQUAL’ Photo Campaign to The Westin Calgary on May 28^th 2011.

This history-making project has set its sights on smashing the record for the world’s largest photo mosaic dedicated to human rights, equality, and civil liberty by taking photos of people from all walks of life that are standing up and making a difference in the community. "There are so many people who are making life better in our communities," explains project creator Jason Beckett. "They volunteer, march, protest, rally, serve, and educate the community so that things start changing for the better for all of us. This project is about celebrating these people."

While not exclusively aimed at the LGBTQ community, the ‘I AM EQUAL’ Project speaks to the core principals of the community by empowering all people to stand up and proudly accept who they are and demand the respect they deserve from friends, neighbors, the government, and the world. "There are countless reasons for people to get a photo," explains project co-founder and photographer Matt Spencer. "There are some who will come out for women’s rights and ending domestic violence, while others are taking a stand to protect children and end slavery around the world. Hundreds come out to support marriage equality and the LGBT community, and others who are fighting for immigration reform or clean drinking water in Africa."

The beauty of the project is how it expands the conversation of equality to show that all people are connected by the fundamental desire to be treated with respect and granted the freedom to live in a manner they see fit. Although each individual takes part in the project for their own reasons and issues, each photo will ultimately be joined together into a colossal photo mosaic, spanning over 8,000 sq/ft, to represent the idea that all these individual issues are really one united call for equality.

Over the next 7 years, Beckett and Spencer will take this project around the world to more than 175 cities to collect the photos needed to break the world record. This stop in Calgary on May 28^th is the only stop scheduled for Alberta and may be our only chance to be part of this historic project.

"We’re excited to come to Calgary and photograph as many people as we can so this gallery represents the passion, power, and diversity of the community," continues Spencer. "I’ll take photos non-stop if I have to so that everyone who wants to be part of this record-breaking project can do so."

Participation in the project is simple and involves no more than 5 minutes to get registered, have a temporary tattoo placed on your palm, and the photo snapped. Wear a brightly colored solid shirt and come camera-ready with your hair and make-up complete. You’re in and out of the process very quickly but the photo will be a lasting representation of all the issues and causes you support.

A few weeks after the photo event, you will get your photo in an email and then it’s time to share it around Facebook, Twitter, MySpace, BLOGS, and emails so that friends and family can see it. "The real magic of the project happens when people start sharing their photo," continues Beckett. "When your friends and family see it, they will ask you about and that’s your chance to talk to them about whatever issues or causes you support. Educate them about the things you’re passionate about and get them excited to step up and get active too. This photo could be the key to unlocking new relationships, stronger ties, community outreach, and service opportunities for you and your friends."

The ‘I AM EQUAL’ event will be held at The Westin Calgary on May 28^th 2011 from 11:00am to 9:00pm. Participation is FREE and OPEN TO THE PUBLIC so make it your goal to bring at least five of your friends to represent Calgary and the cause. A $20.00 donation is recommended as a way to give back to the community and 100% goes to support the efforts of the Global Scholarship Fund – a non-profit program providing educational resources for at-risk students in developing economies.

This project is a unique opportunity to be part of history, break a world record, and shine a light on the community here in Calgary. Make sure you’re there and bring all your friends. Spread the word on Facebook, Twitter, and email and get EVERYONE you know out to participate so that the world can see what equality looks like in Canada.