Pride At Work Canada

Workshop: Bisexual Inclusion at Work [Partner only - EN]
2023-09-13 12:00 - 13:00 (America/Toronto)
Wednesday, September 13, 2023, from 12 PM to 1 PM EDT – this event is exclusive for employees of our Proud Partners and Community Partners.
Live Captioning will be provided by 3 Play Media Canada.
This interactive webinar will explore the unique experiences of bisexual individuals in the workplace and provide emerging tools and strategies for creating a more inclusive work environment. Participants will have the opportunity to engage in discussions and activities to deepen their understanding of bisexuality, learn how to be better allies to the bisexual community, and gain insights into how to build a workplace culture that celebrates all forms of sexual orientation. Whether you are a member of the 2SLGBTQIA+ community, an ally, or an HR professional looking to improve your organization’s diversity and inclusion practices, this workshop is for you. Don’t miss this chance to learn, connect, and grow with like-minded individuals committed to making our workplaces more inclusive and welcoming for everyone.
Learning Objectives:

Understand the experiences and challenges faced by bisexual individuals in the workplace
Learn strategies to create a more inclusive work environment for bisexual employees
Identify actionable steps that can be taken to advance bisexual inclusion in your workplace

Audience:

Proud and Community Partners
Diversity, Equity, & Inclusion Professionals
Human Resource Professionals

Presenters:
Taralyn Parr (she/they), Director of Diversity and Inclusion, McCarthy Tétrault LLP
Taralyn Parr is a dynamic and passionate advocate, dedicated to building an equitable, inclusive, and accessible future. As one of the lead architects of McCarthy Tetrault’s award-winning EDI strategy, Inclusion Now, Taralyn has successfully operationalized forward-thinking strategies that have elevated the firm’s EDI capacity.
Taralyn’s approach is guided by her lived experience as a queer bisexual+, and over a decade of education in gender and workplace equity studies. Her expertise lies in collaborating with leadership, staff, educators, and community partners to develop research-driven solutions that prioritize equity for a more inclusive future of work. She has led initiatives that have transformed diversity data and analytics, embedded inclusive values into talent management practices and policies, increased the recruitment and retention of equity-deserving groups, and built cultural awareness, engagement, and a culture of allyship and belonging.
Taralyn’s dedication to inclusion extends beyond the workplace. She is completing her Ph.D. at the University in Toronto in Adult Education, specializing in Workplace Learning and Social Change and Sexual Diversity Studies. Her dissertation project is exploring how bisexuals+ navigate visibility within the workplace and when in leadership positions. She also teaches in the School of Administrative Studies at York University, and serves as the Director of The Bisexual Research Group.

Jade Pichette (they/them), Director of Programs, Pride at Work Canada
Jade Pichette is an inclusion, diversity, equity, and accessibility (IDEA!) professional based in Tkarón:to/Toronto. Currently, Jade serves as the Director of Programs at Pride at Work Canada, where they work with over 250 large employers across Canada around gender expression, gender identity, and sexual orientation inclusion. Previously, Jade served as the Volunteer and Community Outreach Coordinator at the ArQuives, the Education Programs Coordinator at Kind Space, and an independent inclusion consultant. They are an Ásatrú Gythia (priestess) and interfaith advocate who was the first trans-feminine person to present at the Parliament of World Religions in 2018. Jade was one of the authors of Transitioning Employers: A survey of policies and practices for trans inclusive workplaces and is the cohost of the Uncovering Belonging Podcast. Jade has been named one of Future of Good’s 2022 Young Impact Leaders, Toronto Metropolitan University’s 2021 Pride Champions, and is a judge for the Canadian HR Awards. In their spare time they can be found geeking out over queer, trans, and Norse histories, firekeeping, and spending time with their chosen family.

Accessibility:

Spoken language: English
Live Captioning: English, automatic French translation provided by 3 Play Media Canada.
Format: Virtual (on Zoom)
Engagement type: participants invited to share using chat
Slidedeck available before the session for those with access needs.
Please register below additional accessibility requests. Any questions may be sent to info@prideatwork.ca.

Registration for this event has closed.
This event is exclusive for employees of our Proud Partners and Community Partners. If you would like to register after the deadline, please send an email to info@prideatwork.ca.

Vancouver ProPride
2023-09-21 16:00 - 19:00 (America/Vancouver) | Microsoft Vancouver, 725 Granville Street, Suite 700, Vancouver, British Colombia, V7Y 1G5, Canada
Thursday, September 21, 2023, from 4 PM to 7 PM PDT (7 PM to 10 PM EDT) – This in-person event is free and open to all who wish to register.

Host Sponsor

Event Sponsor

Supporting Sponsor

Join Pride at Work Canada in a night of networking and connection for those who are passionate about advancing 2SLGBTQIA+ rights and creating a more inclusive work environment. Sponsored by Microsoft, Harbour West Consulting Inc, and Finning, the open and welcoming space will provide a unique opportunity for attendees to expand their networks and make meaningful connections with other like-minded individuals who are dedicated to creating more inclusive and equitable workplaces for 2SLGBTQIA+ communities.
Host Sponsor and Location
Microsoft – Vancouver
725 Granville St Suite 700, Vancouver, BC V7Y 1G5
Event Objectives:

Connect with professionals, community members, and job seekers from a diversity of industries and backgrounds.
Engage in meaningful conversations about diversity, equity, and inclusion in the workplace.
Leave with new connections, ideas, and perspectives.

Audience:

2SLGBTQIA+ Professionals & job seekers
2SLGBTQIA+ community members
Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion professionals

SPEAKERS

Oren Shir (he/him)
Principal Software Engineer
Microsoft
[Remarks]

Zakary Myers (he/him, they/them)
BC SOGI 1 2 3 Lead
ARC Foundation
[Remarks]

Jose Patiño-Gomez (he/him)
Director of External Relations
Pride at Work Canada
[Remarks]

Iyol Martínez (they/them)
Leadership Programs Coordinator
Pride at Work Canada
[Emcee]

Accessibility:

Spoken language: English
Closed captioning: English
Format: In-person networking event
Venue accessibility: 725 Granville Accessibility & Directions
Parking is available below the building. The parkade can be accessed from Howe Street. During business hours, the elevator options will allow them to go to the 7th floor from the parkade. There are dedicated accessible and family spaces on the first level of the parkade near the elevator.
Please register below additional accessibility requests. Any questions may be sent to info@prideatwork.ca

About ProPride
ProPride is an innovative event series hosted by Pride at Work Canada, bringing together inclusive employers, 2SLGBTQIA+ thought leaders, and community organizations for engaging conversations, networking opportunities, panel and roundtable discussions. With a commitment to creating inclusive spaces beyond Pride celebrations, ProPride provides a dynamic environment for employees, job seekers, and community members, as well as employers committed to 2SLGBTQIA+ inclusion. Join us for access to the most relevant topics and current research, as we celebrate progress in 2SLGBTQIA+ leadership and inclusion and create a better, more inclusive future for all.
For in-person access, please register here (limited capacity).
This in-person event is free and open to all who wish to register. If you would like to register after the deadline, please send an email to info@prideatwork.ca.

Workshop: Intersectionality within the 2SLGBTQIA+ community [Partner only - FR]
2023-10-18 12:00 - 13:00 (America/Toronto)
(Please note that this event is offered in French.)
Wednesday, October 18, 2023, from 12 PM to 1 PM EDT – this event is exclusive for employees of our Proud Partners and Community Partners. This session will be offered in English on August 23.
Live Captioning will be provided by 3 Play Media Canada.
Join us for a dynamic and thought-provoking presentation on the intersectionality within the 2SLGBTQIA+ workplace inclusion. Our speaker will explore the ways in which different social identities intersect and impact the experiences of 2SLGBTQIA+ individuals, and share strategies for promoting intersectional inclusion and advocacy. This event is perfect for anyone who wants to deepen their understanding of intersectionality and learn how to better support and uplift diverse voices within the 2SLGBTQIA+ community. Don’t miss out on this informative and inspiring event!
Learning Objectives:

Explain the concept of intersectionality and its relevance to the workplace experiences of 2SLGBTQIA+ individuals
Analyze the impact of multiple social identities on the workplace experiences of 2SLGBTQIA+ individuals and identify potential challenges and barriers they may face
Develop strategies for promoting intersectional inclusion and advocating for the rights of 2SLGBTQIA+ individuals in the workplace

Audience:

Proud and Community Partners
Diversity, Equity, & Inclusion Professionals
Human Resource Professionals

Presenter:
Mathieu Young (he/they), Virtual Programs Coordinator, Pride at Work Canada
Mathieu Young is a queer Mauritian who is passionate about empowering marginalized communities, particularly queer immigrants of color, through dialogue, education, and activism. Mathieu is also a multidisciplinary artist, known for organizing events that celebrate the diversity of the LGBTQIA+ community, with a particular focus on uplifting queer immigrants of color. Mathieu’s career has been marked by a deep commitment to promoting diversity and inclusion in the workplace. As President of the Board of Directors for Action positive VIH/sida, Mathieu was responsible for securing funding and ensuring the successful operation of the organization’s programs and services. Mathieu also served as Community Engagement Coordinator for FrancoQueer, where they organized workshops, support groups, and events, while leading training on gender identity, sexual orientation, and anti-racism. With extensive experience in project management, community outreach, and event planning, Mathieu brings a unique and valuable perspective to the sector. Their proficiency in French, Spanish and in English, combined with their expertise in various administrative programs, make them a versatile and valuable asset.

Accessibility:

Spoken language: French
Live Captioning: French, automatic English translation provided by 3 Play Media Canada.
Format: Virtual (on Zoom)
Engagement type: participants invited to share using chat
Slidedeck available before the session for those with access needs.
Please register below additional accessibility requests. Any questions may be sent to info@prideatwork.ca.

Registration for this event has closed.
This event is exclusive for employees of our Proud Partners and Community Partners. If you would like to register after the deadline, please send an email to info@prideatwork.ca.

Keynote ProPride Session: Seeking Safety and Acceptance
2023-10-25 12:00 - 13:00 (America/Toronto)
Wednesday, October 25, 2023, from 12 PM to 1 PM EDT – This online event is open to all who wish to register.
Live Captioning will be provided by 3 Play Media Canada.

Event Sponsor

Keynote Session: Seeking Safety and Acceptance: The Plight of LGBTQIA+ Refugees and Immigrants Escaping War and Persecution
This keynote session for ProPride attendees and general audience will focus on the challenges and difficulties faced by LGBTQIA+ individuals who have to flee their home countries due to war, conflict, or persecution based on their gender identity, gender expression or sexual orientation.
The presentation will explore the unique vulnerabilities experienced by LGBTQIA+ refugees and immigrants during their journey and resettlement, such as the risk of violence, discrimination, and exploitation. It will also highlight the legal and social barriers when they seek asylum and integration in their host countries.
Furthermore, it will discuss the impact of intersectionality when LGBTQIA+ refugees and immigrants face multiple forms of discrimination and marginalization based on their overlapping identities, such as race, ethnicity, religion, disability, etc. The audience will gain an understanding of the importance for inclusive policies, resources, and support systems that address the specific needs and experiences of LGBTQIA+ refugees and immigrants.
Learning Objectives:

Gaining awareness of the global and regional contexts that contribute to the displacement of LGBTQIA+ individuals and the psychological and emotional impact
Identifying the barriers and gaps in support systems for LGBTQIA+ refugees and immigrants
Discussing potential solutions and best practices for creating safe and welcoming environments

Audience:

ProPride attendees
HR/DEI professionals and ERG members who want to improve their workplaces by addressing immigration and refugee policies
Human rights advocates and activists, policymakers, lawmakers, and government officials are involved in shaping immigration and refugee policies
Social workers, counsellors, and mental health professionals working with refugees and LGBTQIA+ populations
Anyone who wishes to broaden their knowledge and understanding of the intersectionality between LGBTQIA+ rights, migration, and refugee protection

Keynote Speaker:
Hanna Haddad (he/him), Business Development Coordinator, Pride at Work Canada
Hanna (he/him), a graduate of Business Administration, possesses a background in humanitarian and non-profit management. Alongside a bachelor’s degree in civil engineering, he has actively engaged with UNHCR during the Syrian war and the subsequent refugee crisis in the Middle East. Hanna played an instrumental role as a social activist, advocating for 2SLGBTQIA+ rights, and served as a life skills coach, focusing on sexual health.
Upon his arrival in Canada in 2021, Hanna promptly began volunteering with local NGOs and community centers, utilizing his passion, knowledge, and experience to support the community. With unwavering ambition, profound dedication, and a firm belief in the imminent attainment of social justice, Hanna emphasizes the importance of aligning ourselves with the right side of history.
Hanna cherishes the power of empathy and embraces hard work as an indispensable element for achieving our personal aspirations and contributing to liberation in all aspects of life.

Accessibility:

Spoken language: English
Live interpretation: English to French
Closed captioning: English and French
Format: Virtual (Zoom in webinar mode)
Engagement type: participants are invited to engage via chat (no audio or video)
Please register below additional accessibility requests. Any questions may be sent to info@prideatwork.ca

About ProPride
ProPride is an innovative event series hosted by Pride at Work Canada, bringing together inclusive employers, 2SLGBTQIA+ thought leaders, and community organizations for engaging conversations, networking opportunities, panel and roundtable discussions. With a commitment to creating inclusive spaces beyond Pride celebrations, ProPride provides a dynamic environment for employees, job seekers, and community members, as well as employers committed to 2SLGBTQIA+ inclusion. Join us for access to the most relevant topics and current research, as we celebrate progress in 2SLGBTQIA+ leadership and inclusion and create a better, more inclusive future for all.
Please register below:
Registration for this event has closed.
This online event is open to all who wish to register. If you would like to register after the deadline, please send an email to info@prideatwork.ca.

Winnipeg ProPride
2024-05-30 17:30 - 20:30 (America/Toronto) | Canadian Museum for Human Rights, 85 Israel Asper Way, Winnipeg, MB, R3C 0L5, Canada
Thursday, May 30, 2024, from 5:30 PM to 8:30 PM CDT (from 7:30 PM to 9:30 PM EDT) – This in-person event is free and open to all who wish to register. There is a paid workshop connected to the event for those who wish to participate.

Join Pride at Work Canada for an evening of networking and connection for those who are passionate about advancing 2SLGBTQIA+ rights and creating a more inclusive work environment. The event will provide an opportunity for attendees to meet like-minded individuals, share their experiences, and learn from one another. Bringing together professionals, community members, and job seekers from a diversity of industries and backgrounds.
During the networking event, attendees will be able to connect and engage in conversations about diversity, equity, and inclusion in the workplace. We encourage attendees to expand their network and build new relationships in an open and welcoming space. Thanks to our host partner Canadian Museum of Human Rights, attendees will come away with new connections, have the opportunity to share experiences, and make meaningful connections with other like-minded individuals.
Learning Objectives:

Connect with leaders from a variety of industries.

Audience:

2SLGBTQIA+ professionals, job seekers and community organizations
HR & DEI professionals

Host Partner & Location:
The Canadian Museum for Human Rights
85 Israel Asper Way, Winnipeg, MB R3C 0L5.

Accessibility:

Spoken language: English
Format: In-person networking event
Venue accessibility: Canadian Museum of Human Rights Accessibility
Please register below additional accessibility requests. Any questions may be sent to events@prideatwork.ca

Workshop: Strength in Community: Leveraging our Strengths in the Fight Against Rising Hate [paid]
May 30, 2024 from 3:30 PM to 5:00 PM CDT

This workshop is presented by
the Government of Manitoba.

Going beyond the idea of “resilience”, it’s time to recognize and explore the strengths that come from our intersectional 2SLGBTQIA+ identities and lived experiences – and how we can apply those to our work in employee resource groups and inclusion councils in this climate of rising hate.
Over the past year, there has been a rise in anti-2SLGBTQIA+ protests, attacks, and political movements. Within this context, our employee resource groups and inclusion councils are facing immense pressure in our work, increasing calls for support from the community we serve, and the immense weight that comes with working on issues related to our personal identities. And yet, we still do this work – as our 2SLGBTQIA+ elders have done for decades before us.
In this workshop, we will take stock of the strengths we’ve built through community-making and self-discovery, and strategize to apply those internally to care for ourselves while doing this work and externally to mobilize against rising hate.
Learning Objectives:

Main learnings from 2SLGBTQIA+ leaders from Lead with Pride: Best Practices for Advancing 2SLGBTQIA+ Leadership.
What our strengths are as individuals and as a community.
How to leverage those strengths in the face of rising hate.

Audience:

2SLGBTQIA+ professionals
2SLGBTQIA+ community organizations

Prices:

Member ticket price (Proud Partners and Community Partners): $100 + taxes
Non-member ticket price: $150 + taxes

* The workshop includes a post-event VIQ reception from 5:00 PM to 6:00 PM CDT, where you’ll have the chance to network with fellow guests.
For in-person access, please register here (limited capacity).
About ProPride:
ProPride is an innovative event series hosted by Pride at Work Canada, bringing together inclusive employers, 2SLGBTQIA+ thought leaders, and community organizations for engaging conversations, networking opportunities, panel and roundtable discussions. With a commitment to creating inclusive spaces beyond Pride celebrations, ProPride provides a dynamic environment for employees, job seekers, and community members, as well as employers committed to 2SLGBTQIA+ inclusion. Join us for access to the most relevant topics and current research, as we celebrate progress in 2SLGBTQIA+ leadership and inclusion and create a better, more inclusive future for all.
This in-person event is free and open to all who wish to register. If you would like to register after the deadline, please send an email to events@prideatwork.ca.

Virtual ProPride Amplifying Pride: Engaging 2SLGBTQIA+ Influencers for Impact [free - EN]
2024-06-12 12:00 - 13:30 (America/Toronto)
Wednesday, June 12, 2024, from 12 PM to 1:30 PM EDT – This online event is free and open to all who wish to register.
Ready to go beyond surface-level engagement and make a meaningful impact during Pride Month, especially in the face of rising anti-2SLGBTQIA+ hate? Join our expert panel of 2SLGBTQIA+ influencers, seasoned in marketing and strategic partnerships, as they unveil invaluable strategies and insights to guide your organization through this pivotal moment.
From cultivating authentic connections to building strategic partnerships, we’ll explore creative and efficient approaches that go beyond surface-level engagement. Discover how amplifying your advocacy efforts can foster a more inclusive workplace and community beyond Pride month.
Learning Goals:

Acquire practical tips and actionable insights to effectively navigate Pride Month initiatives and create a lasting positive impact for your organization.
Deepen your understanding of the importance of authenticity in engaging with the 2SLGBTQIA+ community during Pride Month and beyond.
Explore strategies for building successful partnerships with 2SLGBTQIA+ influencers to enhance your organization’s impact and reach.

Audience:

Communications and Marketing Teams
Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion Professionals
2SLGBTQIA+ Employee Resource Groups

SPEAKERS

Haley Robinson (they/them)
Actor, Model and Advocate
[Speaker]

Jamie Pandit (she/her)
Content Creator and Fashion Expert
[Speaker]

Kissy Duerre (she/her)
Multi-platform Digital Creator
[Speaker]

Mathieu Young (he/him, they/them)
Virtual Programs Coordinator
Pride at Work Canada
[Moderator]

Accessibility:

Spoken language: English
Automatic translation: English to French
Closed captioning provided: English and French
Format: Virtual (Zoom in webinar mode)
Engagement type: participants invited to engage via chat (no audio or video)
Please register below additional accessibility requests. Any questions may be sent to events@prideatwork.ca

About ProPride:
ProPride is an innovative event series hosted by Pride at Work Canada, bringing together inclusive employers, 2SLGBTQIA+ thought leaders, and community organizations for engaging conversations, networking opportunities, panel and roundtable discussions. With a commitment to creating inclusive spaces beyond Pride celebrations, ProPride provides a dynamic environment for employees, job seekers, and community members, as well as employers committed to 2SLGBTQIA+ inclusion. Join us for access to the most relevant topics and current research, as we celebrate progress in 2SLGBTQIA+ leadership and inclusion and create a better, more inclusive future for all.
Registration for this event has closed.
This online event is free and open to all who wish to register. If you would like to register after the deadline, please send an email to events@prideatwork.ca.

Montreal ProPride
2024-08-07 17:30 - 20:30 (America/Toronto) | Sid Lee Montreal, 12102-1 Place Ville Marie, Montreal, QC, H3B 3Y1
Wednesday, August 7, 2024, from 5:30 PM to 8:30 PM EDT – This in-person event is free and open to all who wish to register.
Presented by Desjardins.
In collaboration with , Amazon Web Services (AWS), Sid Lee, SAQ, Braindate, and Fierté Montréal
On August 7, join us for an exceptional evening organized by Pride at Work Canada, focused on facilitating networking and connection among people who are committed to creating inclusive workplaces. During this celebratory event, participants will have the opportunity to meet people who are actively working to create inclusive environments, to share experiences and inspire one another.
This event brings together professionals and job seekers from a variety of sectors and backgrounds with a common goal: to create safe and accessible spaces for 2SLGBTQIA+ communities.

SCHEDULE

4:30 PM – 5:30 PM EDT – Networking activity presented by Braindate (by registration – 100 spots available, granting access to the cocktail)
5:30 PM – 8:30 PM EDT – Montreal ProPride Cocktail

Thanks to Braindate’s targeted networking activation, you’ll get to meet community influencers, share knowledge and strengthen ties within our community. Don’t miss this opportunity to broaden your network and engage in meaningful and dynamic conversations.
We are continually working to enhance our networking experiences, based on your valuable feedback, making it more authentic and meaningful. At large events, it can be challenging for attendees to make new business connections or engage with people outside their immediate network.
This year, we are excited to partner with Braindate, a Montreal-based technology company, to offer an optimized networking experience during the first hour of the ProFierté cocktail reception (4:30 to 5:30 PM).
So, how do you spark those meaningful conversations? It all starts with a Braindate.
Braindates are knowledge-sharing conversations that you schedule with others to have in small groups on-site in the Braindate Lounge. They are perfect for brainstorming, solving challenges, and sharing expertise or experiences while meeting new, brilliant people.
Register for the event, book a Braindate with one of our experts from our Community Partners and Champions, and learn something new.
You will also gain direct access to the ProPride Reception, which usually sells out quickly. Don’t miss out!

SPONSORS

GOLD SPONSOR

SILVER SPONSOR

BRONZE SPONSOR

HOST SPONSOR & LOCATION

Sid Lee
12102-1 Place Ville Marie, Montreal, Quebec, H3B 3Y1, Canada

NETWORKING SUPPORT

COMMUNITY PARTNER

Registration on Eventbrite.
About ProPride:
ProPride is an innovative event series hosted by Pride at Work Canada, bringing together inclusive employers, 2SLGBTQIA+ thought leaders, and community organizations for engaging conversations, networking opportunities, panel and roundtable discussions. With a commitment to creating inclusive spaces beyond Pride celebrations, ProPride provides a dynamic environment for employees, job seekers, and community members, as well as employers committed to 2SLGBTQIA+ inclusion. Join us for access to the most relevant topics and current research, as we celebrate progress in 2SLGBTQIA+ leadership and inclusion and create a better, more inclusive future for all.
If you would like to register after the deadline, please send an email to events@prideatwork.ca.

Montreal ProPride 2025
2025-08-06 16:00 - 20:30 (America/Toronto)
Wednesday, August 6, 2025, from 4:00 PM to 8:30 PM EDT – This in-person event is open to all who wish to register.

Presented by Desjardins.
In collaboration with EY, BDC, sid lee and Fierté Montréal
Join us on August 6 for a vibrant evening of connection, celebration, and community, hosted by Pride at Work Canada in the heart of Tio’tia:ke/Montréal. Montréal ProPride event is all about bringing together folks who are committed to safeguarding and uplifting 2SLGBTQIA+ human rights in their workplaces and beyond.
Whether you’re a professional, job seeker, community advocate, or ally, this is a space to meet others who share your values, exchange experiences, and build relationships rooted in community and connection. Together, we’ll honour the work being done to create safer, more accessible spaces for 2SLGBTQIA+ communities across all sectors.
Come ready to connect, be inspired, and celebrate what’s possible when we lead with intention and solidarity.
HOST

Barbada

Dynamic, funny and endearing, Barbada is a drag artist who has been performing across Canada since 2005. Versatile, she delivers disco, pop and dance performances in the evening and hosts story time for children of all ages during the day.

SCHEDULE
4:00 PM – 5:00 PM EDT – Panel Discussion presented by BDC (by registration – 70 spots available, granting access to the cocktail)

BDC offices (BDC Square 5 Place Ville Marie Rez-de-Chaussée Montréal, Qc)

5:00 PM – 5:30 PM EDT – Pride Walk – Please join us for a short (5 minute) walk between the BDC and Sid Lee offices. Led by Barbada please bring your flags, your Pride t-shirt, and your excitement as we march gayfully from one office to the other. Pride is a movement, not just a moment.
5:30 PM – 8:30 PM EDT – Montreal ProPride Cocktail presented by Desjardins

sid lee offices (sid lee 12102-1 Place Ville Marie, Montreal, Quebec, H3B 3Y1, Canada)

SPONSORS
PRESENTED BY

IN COLLABORATION WITH

Panel
The Cost of Silence: Why Allyship Matters Now More Than Ever
In a time marked by increasing visibility and simultaneous backlash against 2SLGBTQIA+ communities, silence is not neutrality—it’s complicity. This panel explores the critical role of allyship in standing up for two-spirit, queer and trans human rights and the challenges 2SLGBTQIA+ communities continue to face across workplaces, communities, and public life.
Our panelists—leaders, advocates, and changemakers—will unpack the real-world consequences of inaction and the power of intentional, sustained allyship. Together, we’ll examine the personal and collective costs of silence, the discomfort of learning and unlearning, and how meaningful solidarity can look in different contexts.
If you’ve ever wondered, “What does allyship actually look like?” or “How can I do better?”, this conversation is for you.
Moderator:

Florence Gagnon (she/her)
Manager of Brand & Sponsorships, Pride at Work Canada

Florence Gagnon holds a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree from Concordia University. She has spent the last 10 years working to ‘spread the word’ and increase visibility for lesbians within and outside of the LGBTQ+ community. In 2012, she created a platform to provide a resource to lesbian communities, Lez Spread The Word, the first bilingual website of its kind in Canada. In 2014, she launched the FÉMININ / FÉMININ television series, with director Chloé Robichaud (Sarah Préfère la Course and Boudaries), who won two Gemini Awards in Quebec and several international prizes in 2015. In 2016, she published the first LSTW magazine, a 230-page bilingual annual magazine that stands out in stores across Canadian provinces, European capitals and major US cities. She was awarded the Publisher Grand Prix at the National Magazine Awards in 2021 and 2025.

Panelists:

Angélique Pelée de Saint Maurice (she/her)
Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion Advisor, Desjardins

Born in France, Angélique settled in Quebec nearly ten years ago, after several transatlantic trips. An equity, diversity, and inclusion advisor, she is actively involved in advancing causes that are close to her heart, both in her professional and personal life. A member of the Desjardins LGBTQ+ Committee and a proud ally of the community, Angélique is also the mother of a non-binary teenager, which fuels her deep commitment to a more inclusive and caring world.

Mathieu Ménard (il/lui)
Entrepreneur

Mathieu Ménard, former marketing and branding strategist (TUX, Featuring), launched Le Chasseur, a gourmet restaurant nestled in the working-class neighborhood of Hochelaga, in 2012. Against all odds, the establishment rose to become one of the 50 best restaurants in Montreal. A series of notable projects followed: Brasserie Blind Pig (2015), the Gargantua food truck and La Tannerie restaurant (2016), the Minéral wine bar (2020, winner of five design awards), and the complete rebranding of the Waverly bar (2021).

Tamara Tepox (she/they)
Queer Activist | DEI Leader | Founder of Alstom True Colours

Tamara Tepox is a proud Mexican-Canadian and long-standing queer activist, advocating for 2SLGBTQIA+ rights since 1999. With a deep commitment to amplifying marginalized voices, Tamara creates spaces where vulnerability is embraced, difficult conversations are encouraged, and healing can begin.
Professionally, Tamara is the founder and co-lead of Alstom True Colours, the company’s first 2SLGBTQIA+ Employee Resource Group. Through this initiative, they drive meaningful change by fostering inclusion and visibility within the corporate world.
In 2021, Tamara launched the Rainbow Train, a Virtual Pride March that redefines workplace celebration by inviting participation through any form of physical activity. This innovative project earned national acclaim, receiving the 2023 CUTA Canadian Urban Transportation Award for Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion.
Tamara holds a degree in Natural Sciences from the Universidad Autónoma Metropolitana and blends activism, creativity, and leadership to uplift queer communities and artists. Their work continues to inspire transformation across corporate, cultural, and public spaces.

Victoria F. Legault (elle/la)
Executive Director, Aide aux Trans du Québec

Victoria F. Legault is a trans woman from Abitibi-Témiscamingue with an unconventional professional background. At 24, she is the Executive Director of Aide aux Trans du Québec and previously worked as a deputy clerk at the Quebec Ministry of Justice for nearly two years, primarily serving in Northern Quebec. Victoria is also a member of the Union des artistes and currently holds the “Under 30” seat on the board of Égides – the International Francophone Alliance for Equality and Diversities.
A long-time advocate for LGBTQI+ rights, she sits on several community-based research committees and is deeply passionate about the nonprofit sector. She is currently completing the Leadership, Impact, and Management in Business program at Harvard Business School Online.

Tickets:
Register today for this in person event.
Panel and Cocktail Reception*

Member tickets (Proud Partners and Community Partners): $80 (+ taxes)
Non-member tickets: $120 (+ taxes)

Cocktail Reception*

Member tickets (Proud Partners and Community Partners): $20 (+ taxes)
Non-member tickets: $40 (+ taxes)

*This contribution helps support Pride at Work’s mission and activities, and better guarantees the attendance of our registrants. If you are a member of our Community Partners network and would like to participate at a more accessible cost, please contact us.
About ProPride:
ProPride is an innovative event series hosted by Pride at Work Canada, bringing together inclusive employers, 2SLGBTQIA+ thought leaders, and community organizations for engaging conversations, networking opportunities, panel and roundtable discussions. With a commitment to creating inclusive spaces beyond Pride celebrations, ProPride provides a dynamic environment for employees, job seekers, and community members, as well as employers committed to 2SLGBTQIA+ human rights in the workplace. Join us for access to the most relevant topics and current research, as we celebrate progress in 2SLGBTQIA+ leadership and human rights and create a better, more welcoming future for all.
If you would like to register after the deadline, please send an email to events@prideatwork.ca.
