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“As Capital Pride 2016 furthers the conversation on Bathrooms without Borders and safe spaces for all, Charlie was a natural choice for Parade Grand Marshal,” said Dopson, noting Lowthian-Rickert’s ongoing advocacy to allow transgender people to use bathrooms that correspond with their gender identity.

During the pride parade, Lowthian-Rickert will lead the procession from the front, along with two international Parade Marshals funded with a grant from the U.S. Embassy in Ottawa. They include California-born Menominee writer and activist Chrystos and American transgender model and former student Laith Ashley de la Cruz.

She recognizes what it’s like to be different in today’s society, and how we label things frames how we treat people

Lowthian-Rickert — who is currently enjoying her summer at Camp Ten Oaks for children and youth from LGBTTQ communities — is transgender, born biologically male, but has identified as a girl since she was old enough to speak. Her mom says she has been outspoken about her experience to educate the public and empower other transgender kids who may be struggling to fit in. The young student joined Justice Minister Jody Wilson-Raybould on May 17 on Parliament Hill for the tabling of Bill C-16, legislation that would provide human rights and legal protection to transgender people.

Lowthian-Rickert is also actively raising funds for Family Services of Ottawa, and she will be featured in a documentary on gender diversity that will air nationally in the coming months.

When Lowthian-Rickert isn’t giving speeches she spends time with friends playing Xbox, enjoys hip-hop dance and builds model cars and planes. She was on a float in last year’s parade, joined by family and friends. This year she’ll be in the lead car.

“She recognizes what it’s like to be different in today’s society, and how we label things frames how we treat people,” said Lowthian on her daughter’s drive to facilitate change. “She’s sensitive to that because she’s experienced it. So she’s said to me numerous times she wants to give a voice to other kids, she wants kids to be strong enough to call out the bullies, and stand up and be themselves. And to not be afraid to do that.”

The parade will begin at Gladstone Avenue and Bank Street on Sunday Aug. 21.