Grandview Kids celebrates Pride Month

Shared on behalf of Grandview Kids’ Inclusivity, Diversity, Equity and Accessibility (IDEA) Committee

Pride Month, celebrated every June in Canada, is a time of celebration, a time to honour love, acceptance, and above all, inclusivity. As an organization dedicated to enabling children and youth to live at their full potential, we recognize the profound importance of creating spaces where everyone feels welcomed and supported, regardless of their gender identity, gender expression and sexual orientation.

Last year, Grandview Kids CEO Tom McHugh shared a heartfelt message, capturing the spirit of Pride Month within our organization. Reflecting on his sentiments, we reiterate our commitment to fostering an environment where diversity is not just accepted but celebrated. Pride Month serves as a serious reminder of the struggles faced by members of the 2SLGBTQI+ community while also recognizing the strides we have taken toward building a more equitable society.

By raising the Pride flag at our Main Site in Oshawa at the beginning of June, we acknowledge our unwavering support for the 2SLGBTQI+ community. It’s a tangible expression of our belief that everyone deserves to be treated with kindness and respect, regardless of their gender identity, gender expression and sexual orientation. However, our commitment to inclusivity extends beyond symbolic gestures. In our daily interactions and practices, we strive to embody our renewed values of belonging, excellence, connection, discovery and celebration. Whether it’s through our programs and services, policies or organizational culture, we are dedicated to creating a safe and affirming space for all.

As we embark on another Pride Month celebration, we invite everyone in the Grandview Kids community to join us in this journey toward greater inclusivity.

Here are a few actions we can take together:

1. Educate ourselves: Take time to educate ourselves about the experiences and challenges faced by the 2SLGBTQI+ community. By understanding their perspectives, we can better support and advocate for inclusivity.
2. Listen and amplify 2SLGBTQI+ voices: Actively listen to the voices of 2SLGBTQI+ individuals within our community. Amplify their stories and experiences, ensuring their voices are heard and valued.
3. Challenge discrimination: Speak out against discrimination and prejudice whenever and wherever we encounter it. Whether it’s in the workplace or in our personal lives, we must actively challenge harmful attitudes and behaviours.
4. Promote allyship: Actively support the rights of the 2SLGBTQI+ community and advocate for equality. Allyship is about standing in solidarity with marginalized groups and using our privilege to effect positive change.
5. Create inclusive spaces: Work towards creating inclusive spaces where everyone feels welcome and valued. This includes engaging in conversation with 2SLGBTQI+ clients, staff and members of our community to learn how best we can offer the support and resources they need to be successful.

For more information about Pride Month, Pride celebrations in the Durham Region or how to be an ally, please visit Durham Region’s 2SLGBTQI+ resource page.

On behalf of Grandview Kids’ IDEA Committee and all Team Grandview members, we wish our clients, caregivers and their families a happy Pride Month. Let’s come together to celebrate the diversity that makes our community so vibrant and special.

Happy Pride Month!