Pride is about being proud, free, and accepting of all.

June 15, 2007 OPSEU - The Proud Union of Choice: OPSEU joins Pride Toronto! Listen to the CKLN radio ad. .mp3
 

June is designated as Pride Month. We celebrate our history, diversity and pride. We celebrate all those Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transsexual, Transgender, Intersexed, Queer, Questioning and Two-Spirited (LGBTTIQQ2S). We march for the transgendered kid who sits alone in his room too afraid to go to school for fear of violence and rejection. We send a message that an inclusive world should accept everyone regardless of their sexuality and should have no tolerance for hate crimes. We challenge the stereotypes, defamation and discrimination faced by all.

We welcome you

We invite you to attend Pride events in your area and meet the members of the Caucus at the OPSEU table.

If you are attending Toronto Pride or any other Pride in your area and you would like to walk with us in the parade, please contact the Equity Unit of OPSEU for further information.  If you have any mobility related concerns please let the Equity Unit know so that they can forward your request on to the Committee to set up appropriate accommodation.  Prior registration is required to ensure we are prepared for everyone to enjoy the celebration of diversity.

You can find us at the following Prides in your area:

If you would like the Pride in your area added to next years events or for further information, contact us at pride@opseu.org or through OPSEU’s Equity Unit at 416.443.8888 ext.8790.

History of Pride

From the June 1969 Stonewall Riots in New York, evolved the modern day quest for gay and lesbian civil rights, equality, justice and liberation. The events started out as small marches and gatherings. Community members were still scared of prosecution and ashamed of whom they were.  A few people in that first parade even wore paper bags on their heads to cover their identities. While homophobia persists, we have come a long way.

Now Pride is about celebrating LGBTTIQQ2S life. Pride is our coming out of the closet, a public expression of our belief that our sexuality and identity are normal, healthy and right for us as individuals, and as a community. We reject the notion and belief that our sexual orientation is wrong, perverse or in need of justification.  It is a statement of our self-acceptance, self–worth and dignity. We are proud of ourselves, our partners and each other.

The Continuing Need for Pride

Facing the negative stereotypes that are associated with our community on a daily basis challenges the strongest of us. To face questions and alienation from friends, co-workers, and family, whether it be due to ignorance or intolerance, is a painful and trying experience.  Systemic heterosexism continues to be the norm. Psychological and physical violence, harassment and discrimination against LGBTTIQQ2S persons still go unreported and unpunished. LGBTTIQQ2S youth are more likely to commit suicide and drop out of school. Fostering pride and visibility continues to be important.

Our Hope

We are proud of who we are and who we choose to love.  Society can change, can learn and can evolve.  Our celebration of our rights and our freedom's will pave the way for the day when we will all be fully accepted.