Pride, Every Day: From Celebration to Action

Pride Month is here and so is the much-needed message of hope it brings for 2SLGBTQIA+ folks to be proud and loud about who they are. But in a time when basic rights are being challenged, it is easy to feel discouraged and question how to keep up the momentum and continue highlighting 2SLGBTQIA+ voices after these celebrations. That’s why Pride season must be more than a celebration, it must also be a call for sustained action and accountability throughout the year. 

Pride season is a time for folks of many marginalized identities to come together and support one another in finding empowerment and joy in community. While queer, racialized and disabled folks continue to face discrimination, we see many people working together to address the systemic challenges that surround them. There is strength, power and beauty in people coming together to uplift each other’s unique attributes and build communities that are accessible and safe for all. 

Pride doesn't end on June 30, and one of the most meaningful ways to carry the momentum forward is by taking action to address homophobia, queerphobia, biphobia, sexism and transphobia whenever and wherever you see it. 

Start with Research 

If you're unsure where to begin, start by learning more about the community. Listening and educating yourself is an important first step in being a strong ally. Here are a few ideas to get you started: 

• Look into the history of Pride in your local area. 

• Follow organizations like QMUNITY, Egale, It Gets Better and the Community-Based Research Centre to learn about their work and how to support it. 

• Check Eventbrite or social media for Pride events happening near you. 

Ways to Take Action 

Educate 

If someone says something harmful, take a moment to explain why it’s offensive or rooted in bias. This can include defining terms like homophobia, racism or stereotyping to help build understanding. 

Interrupt 
Speak up in the moment. A simple statement like “That’s not okay,” “That’s hurtful,” or “I don’t support that,” can go a long way in addressing harm and showing solidarity. 

Question 
Ask for clarification. Phrases like “What do you mean by that?” or “Why did you say that?” can help the person reflect on their words or actions. Often, people don’t realize the impact of their behaviour until it’s questioned. 

Echo 
Uplift positive stories, initiatives and events from the 2SLGBTQIA+ community. Share them, support them and show up when you can. 

Build Inclusive Workplaces 

Creating safe, inclusive spaces at work matters. Here are some practices to consider: 

• Use gender-inclusive language such as “Welcome everyone!” or “Hello folks!” 
• Ensure your washrooms have signage that clearly states trans and gender diverse people are welcome. Include menstrual products and disposal options in ALL washrooms. 
• Regularly review and update policies to be inclusive of all gender identities.

Show your support visually

Display Pride symbols like a rainbow flag, button or decal in your workspace to signal that it's a safe and inclusive space. 

Normalize pronouns

Introduce yourself with your name and pronouns at meetings and events. 

Take the Next Step: Organizational Accountability 

Include 2SLGBTQIA+ Voices   

Create channels for feedback to continuously assess and improve policies and procedures. Encourage open dialogues and actively respond to concerns raised by 2SLGBTQIA+ individuals. Part of this is ensuring your organization has queer and gender diverse people in leadership roles, including upper management and your board of directors. 

Prioritize Education and Training 

Advocate for your organization to implement training programs to address unconscious biases and educate employees about how they can hold themselves accountable to creating inclusive spaces for the 2SLGBTQIA+ community.  

YWCA’s Commitments 

The YWCA Strategic Plan (2024-2029) outlines our commitments to create a safe and more equitable world for all. We believe that bold, systemic change is needed to ensure people have equitable access to opportunities that are free from violence.  We stand in support of gender-affirming care and policies that uphold the rights and dignity of 2SLGBTQIA+ communities — not just during Pride Month, but every day, until we live in a society where all voices are heard, valued and respected.