The Minister of National Defence Video Message for Pride Month
Video / June 30, 2021
Transcript
Every June, Canadians of every background come together to celebrate Pride Month.
It’s a time of unity.
A time to rejoice and reflect.
To honour the history and achievements of the vibrant LGBTQ2 communities...
And revel in the spirit, strength and resilience that connect its members.
It offers an opportunity to accept and affirm oneself — and each other.
An invitation to be heard…
And the fulfillment of the universal desire to feel seen for who we truly are.
Freely, openly and authentically…
Every day of the year, even though some people and institutions may still exclude and attack you for it.
In fact, this year marks the 50th Anniversary of the landmark We Demand brief — a catalyst for positive change in Canada.
It included the call to end the harassment and purge of LGBTQ people from the CAF and the federal government.
Its 10 demands helped advance the rights of LGBTQ2 people over the next decades.
The same courage and commitment that fueled progress back then is on full display in LGBTQ2+ communities today, whether across society as a whole or within our own Defence team.
I am inspired daily by the dedication and contributions of our LGBTQ2 colleagues to the safety and security of Canadians.
And I’m grateful for the passion and professionalism of our Defence Team Pride Advisory Organization, who keep us evolving as an institution.
We will always strive toward a culture that is safe, supportive, and inclusive of every member — regardless of sex, gender identity, gender expression or sexual orientation.
Although this year’s Pride Month is ending, Pride Season has barely begun.
Over the coming months, I hope you’ll join in the many celebrations that help us all better appreciate the diversity, dignity and determination of the LGBTQ2 communities.
And I also hope that the learning we do over the course of Pride Season will move us forward where progress still needs to be made.
Because, while Pride is in part about celebrating the communities’ achievements…
None of us should lose sight of the work we still have ahead to make Canada a truly inclusive, safe and welcoming place for all members of the LGBTQ2 communities.
Thank you.