Step up and show us your Pride

June is Pride Month in Canada. Early June typically kicks off the Pride season of festivals and celebrations from coast to coast to coast that run until the end of August. Participation with and in pride celebrations are just some of the ways that the Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) shows their respect to our team members from the lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer and 2-spirited (LGBTQ2+) communities. More importantly it embodies the principle of inclusivity which is key to success in everything we do. This year, despite COVID-19, will not be deterred as we, together, in a safe and respective manner, celebrate and show our individual and collective Pride.

The entire Defence Team and Veterans Affairs Canada (VAC) are committed to the Canadian ideals of diversity, inclusion, and respect. By embracing diversity, we draw on all of the unique strengths and abilities of Canada’s population, which enhances our operational effectiveness. Inclusivity unites all of us as one team, and pride celebrations are a reminder of how amazingly diverse we are and just how we garner strength through diversity.

Sharing our Pride gives us unity of purpose making each of us better as people and more relevant as an organization reflecting Canadian values. Whether it’s raising a flag on bases or wings, celebrating from home, virtually or abroad, we want the Defence Team and veterans to show us your Pride2020 now and throughout the year.

As part of your individual or group celebrations, we ask that you submit your photos and messages or quotes to: +Internal Communications internes@ADM(PA)@Ottawa-Hull. All photos must be accompanied by:

• Sender’s name, email, contact phone number, and rank, if applicable. Please use your @forces.gc.ca email address, if possible, or alternate email address
• A brief caption that describes the photo and includes the location/date the image was taken (100 words max)

A gallery of images will be created for all to access and share, which will be featured across our Defence Team and VAC communications platforms and all social media accounts.

Pride events celebrate diversity and the LGBTQ2+ communities, acknowledge their history and achievements, and continue the focus on fostering the rights and recognition that LGBTQ2+ Canadians deserve. The road that led us to this point has been a long one: by continuing with our multitudes of diversity initiatives and goals we continue to get stronger and more effective while ensuring we value what is most important to us – our people. Show us your Pride by showing off your rainbow colours. Deadline for submissions of photos is August 31, 2020.