Queer icon coming to town

Photo: Ivan Coyote

A speaker described as a "natural born storyteller" is coming to Penticton to share their personal stories about gender identity, social justice and queer issues. 

Ivan Coyote is a well-known Canadian LGBTQ activist and author, having written 11 books and created four short films, six full-length live shows and three albums that combine storytelling with music.

They will be speaking and telling stories related to their latest book, Tomboy Survival Guide, at Okanagan College's Shatford Centre on Mar. 15. The book was an American Library Association Stonewall Honour Book in 2016, and was shortlisted for The Hilary Weston Writer's Trust prize for non-fiction.

Coyote was also given an honorary Doctorate of Laws at Simon Fraser University for their writing and activism this fall.

South Okanagan-Similkameen Pride Society president Karen Davy is excited about the event. 

"Ivan has become and audience favourite with their storytelling, writing, film, poetry and folk music,” Davy said. “And their stop in Penticton will include an audience participation Q&A session as well as a book signing. There will be books for sale that evening, or bring your favourite Ivan book down and get it autographed!” 

Tickets are $10 and can be purchased in advance or at the door at the Shatford Centre. Doors open at 6:30 p.m. Thursday, Mar. 15.