Here at PSHSA, we strive to create safe and healthy workplaces for everyone, no matter who you love or how you identify.
As we near the end of Pride Month, let’s remember to continue the conversation outside the month of June. Here are a few ways to show your support and become an ally to the LGBTQ2+ community, both inside and outside of the workplace.
Formalize Your Organization’s Commitment to EDI
Investing in training, creating policies and Equity, Diversity and Inclusion (EDI) Employee Resource Groups (ERGs) or committees help to create a working environment that offers employees a space to be themselves and feel safe at work. (Details on these topics can be found in a previous PSHSA blog: Take PRIDE in Your Workplace: Tips on Fostering Equity, Diversity and Inclusion at Work.)
Attend a Pride Event
During the month of June, people and organizations across Ontario come together to host events including festivals, parades, rallies, marches, parties, shows and more as a way to celebrate diversity, create inclusive experiences and connect, support and show pride in the LGBTQ2+ community. Information on Pride events near you can be found here.
Around Toronto or the GTA this weekend? The 41st Toronto Pride Parade happens this Sunday, June 26 from 2 – 6 p.m. Over 200 contingents and over 200,000 marchers are expected for the 2022 parade starting at Bloor and Church, then heading south on Yonge to Dundas.
Volunteer or Donate to a Pro-LGBTQ2+ Charity/Foundation
Pro-LGBTQ2+ charities and foundations are always looking for a helping hand, whether through volunteerism or in the form of a donation! A great list of organizations can be found here.
Educate Yourself
Major strides toward mainstream social acceptance and formal legal equality have been made in recent decades and Canada is internationally regarded as a leader in this area. Recent years have seen steady progress on everything from healthcare to the right to adopt. In 2005, Canada became the fourth country worldwide to legalize same-sex marriage.
But there is still more work to be done. Understanding how we got here can often inform the path forward. Learn more about the history of Pride in Canada.
Support LGBTQ2+ Art and Culture
For many, experiencing arts and culture is a way to better connect with various topics on a more personal level. For resources on learning more about the LGBTQ2+ community in various forms of media, check out this list of books, films and other examples.
Be an Ally
Being an ally is all about our actions and how we show up for the LGBTQ2+ community. We can do this by speaking up and being respectful, celebrating the community’s success and showing support during vulnerable times and conducting personal research to educate ourselves.
Did you hear someone using a slur towards the LGBTQ2+ community? What about misgendering them or using harmful stereotypes? Do your part and make it known that what is being said is wrong and harmful, and correct any accidental comments.
Language has the power to validate and acknowledge identities, but also to deny them. Gender identity can be deeply personal; it is not something to be questioned nor is it up for discussion. Respect the terminology a person uses to describe their identity or even that of their partner, children or other loved ones. Instead of assuming, ask for pronouns to prevent emotional distress and set an example of respect.
If you experience or witness any persistent issues or problems in your workplace, speak with your organization’s EDI group, human resources or the union. Learn more about being an ally and how to improve LGBTQ2+ inclusion.
This month, connect with loved ones who identify as part of the LGBTQ2+ community and remember to continue to show your support outside of June!
Learning Resources
- Pride in Canada – The Canadian Encyclopedia
- Important events related to the LGBTQ2S community in Canada
- Guide to Allyship
- Pride at Work Canada
- Ontario Human Rights Commission
- Canadian Human Rights Act
- History of Canadian Pride – Queer Events
- Pride Season - Women and Gender Equality Canada
- Canada celebrates Pride Month by helping Afghan LGBTQ2 individuals
- Celebrate Pride, Province-Wide
- Charities Fighting LGBTQ2+ Equality
- Books by LGBTQ2+ Authors
- LGBTQ2+ Films
- Nine Canadian LGBTQ Artists You Need to Know This Pride Month
- Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender Rights in Canada
- Ontario Human Rights Commission
- Canadian Human Rights Act
