The Coup de Coeur award was presented to the members of the Defence Team Pride Advisory Organization (DTPAO)

July 6, 2022 - Defence Stories

Caption

The photographer is Cpl Laurian Ene, 2 Div CA HQ

The Fondation Émergence Coup de Coeur Award was presented on June 8 in Montreal to the members of the Defence Team Pride Advisory Organization executive: Major André Jean, Luc Mader-Chartier, Marie-Christine De Tilly, Kirk/Kaiya Hamilton, Capt Francis Montagnese, Lt(N) Garrett McKenzie, MCpl Angela Vasiliou, MCpl Nathalie Murray.

On June 8, the Coup de Coeur award was presented to the members of the Defence Team Pride Advisory Organization (DTPAO) executive for outstanding actions that have had a direct impact on combating homophobia and transphobia over the past year within the CAF and DND.

Since its inception in 2020, the members of the DTPAO have been working behind the scenes to recommend actions on the systemic barriers that our communities face. This is helping to create an increasingly safe workplace for people in the LGBTQ2+ communities. Receiving the Coup de Coeur award encourages the continuation, consolidation and sustainability of the DTPAO, which has distinguished itself by its strong impact on its communities.

"Receiving this award is a clear sign that DTPAO's actions are desirable, fair and appropriate given the values of our organization and those of Canadians," said Major André P. Jean, National Military Co-Chair. "This award is heartwarming and puts a balm on our wounds, the efforts of all the members of our organization are now legitimized by Fondation Émergence and it gives us the perseverance to continue the work of awareness and education to the Defence Team. Thank you to the 370 members for your valuable collaboration, it is by working together that we will succeed in creating a healthy and equitable work environment for everyone.

Fondation Émergence's mission is to recognize the work, efforts and actions of individuals and organizations that have distinguished themselves through volunteer actions and achievements that have contributed to the improvement of the quality of life of the LGBTQ2+ communities. Building on its reputation for excellence and true to its values of equality, diversity and inclusion, Fondation Émergence carries out actions that contribute to the well-being of the LGBTQ2+ community. Fondation Émergence takes ambitious actions, including coordinating programs and developing collaborations to address the unique challenges of sexual and gender diverse communities.

"Today, accepting our differences is one of the core values of Canadians and our job is to ensure that these values are reflected within our organization," says Interim Civilian Co-Chair Luc Mader-Chartier.

"When I see all the progress we have made, I know that we are proudly carrying the stories of all those who have sacrificed for this cause. Because, like them, we have understood that we have a responsibility to act, to be bold, courageous, and above all ambitious in our common quest for equality and justice. Because even today, despite all the obstacles we have overcome, the battles we have won and the victories we have celebrated, we are still witnesses and, for many, victims of injustice. It's time to take action," adds Luc.