GayCalgary chatted with the legend herself - Emily Expo during the 2016 Calgary Expo.

GC: How has the weekend been so far?

Emily: It’s been absolutely amazing. So many smiling faces on the show floor. It’s such a positive place to be - really energetic, fantastic.

GC: This year I’ve noticed diversity really kick in. We interviewed a transgender cosplayer and she was so excited to see that we were sponsors of the event. Have you noticed a change in that nature?

Emily: Absolutely. I firmly believe representation is important. I also believe that because our crowd is so diverse that it needs to be reflected in our lineup. It’s inspiring for our attendees and really shows that everyone is welcome.

GC: We saw a child at one of the booths dressed up as a princess and the parents were so accepting and cool about their son choosing to be a princess instead of the stereotype.

Emily: This whole culture is about loving the things you love and how that's absolutely okay. I never understood the logic behind ‘you have to be a certain way because you have a penis’. It has never made sense to me. Why can’t you just be who you are? If you want to wear a dress, you should be able to wear a dress. I’m happy to see things starting to change.

GC: Many are still surprised to see the representation of Gay Media at these events. Some transgender guests have even been refused entry to the hotel they are staying at, for locations they are hired to be at.

Emily: It’s really unfortunate that those things still happen. It will be a while before people fully understand the way things are and the way things should be. Progress is being made and I am not going to lose hope and I hope others don’t either. It is a journey and a process. People will grow up and mature. They will realize they don’t have to be worried about what is in someone’s pants in the bathroom. There is nothing to be afraid of.

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Contributor Lisa Lunney | Steve Polyak |

Locale Calgary | Edmonton |

Person Emily Expo |

Topic Celebrity Interview | Celebrity Video Interview | Calgary Expo | Comic Expo | Edmonton Expo |