3 CDSB Edmonton raises Transgender Pride flag for the first time

March 31, 2022 - Defence Team Pride Advisory Organization Edmonton Executive

Since 2009, March 31 has been dedicated as the International Transgender Day of Visibility worldwide.

This day is dedicated to raising awareness about the discrimination faced by transgender people and celebrating their contribution to society.

This year, 3^rd Canadian Division Support Base (3 CDSB) Edmonton, in partnership with the Defence Team Pride Advisory Organization (DTPAO) Edmonton, raised the Transgender Pride flag for the first time in support of the transgender community. We recognize the strength and resilience of all Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) and civilian transgender people and will continue to engage in meaningful actions in order to create an environment free of discrimination where all transgender people can thrive.

“By promoting inclusivity in the workplace, we are taking the first step towards reducing systemic barriers. Visibility and inclusivity for the LGBTQ2+ community within the Canadian Armed Forces is essential so that members can serve proudly and openly,” said Master Sailor Antoine Lavoie, DTPAO military co-chair.

See statement by Lieutenant Billie Baluyot who had the opportunity to raise the first Transgender pride at 3 CDSB Edmonton:

March 31^st is an important day to celebrate trans visibility and raise awareness about trans issues in society. While Canada is moving towards gender equality through its commitment towards LGBTQ2S+ rights, being openly transgender could still result in discrimination, and often times could pose a danger to the individual.

Initially, I was a bit apprehensive when I got asked to raise the transgender flag on base due to fears of possible discrimination and backlash. However, with the support of my unit, the DTPAO, and CFB Edmonton’s chain of command, I mustered the strength to put myself out there and represent the transgender community. I realized it is important to show everyone that, just like every other member in the CAF, transgender members are also here to serve Canada, and will forever be here to serve.

This International Transgender Day of Visibility, I feel so honoured to have raised the transgender flag for the very first time at CFB Edmonton. The base’s support in raising awareness on transgender visibility gives me hope the Canadian Armed Forces is moving towards becoming a more diverse and accepting organization. As soldiers, it is important to see that every person is unique and has different things to offer to the CAF. However, what makes us strong and united is that despite these differences, we accept and see each other as one.

Overall, raising the flag for trans visibility showed me that despite different backgrounds, the CAF is able to unite and give support to underrepresented groups as a way to continuously strengthen our military and better serve our country.