Pride At Work Canada

Webinar: Politicizing 2SLGBTQIA+ identities in Western Canada [Partners Only - FR]
2025-01-22 12:00 - 13:00 (America/Toronto)
Wednesday, January 22, 2025, from 12 PM to 1 PM ET – this event is exclusive for employees of our Proud Partners and Community Partners.
Live Captioning will be provided by 3 Play Media Canada.
At a time when trans and queer identities are being increasingly targeted by polarizing policies in Alberta and Saskatchewan, it is crucial for workplaces to understand the impact of this politicization on 2SLGBTQIA+ people, and on the FrancoQueer community in particular. This webinar, presented by Pride at Work Canada in collaboration with the Comité FrancoQueer de l’Ouest, will outline the challenges faced by 2SLGBTQIA+ people in the workplace and explore practical ways to effectively support them in the face of rising intolerance and polarizing discourse.
Learning Objectives:

Understand the impact of the politicization of 2SLGBTQIA+ identities: Gain an in-depth understanding of recent policies in Alberta and Saskatchewan and their effect on the safety and well-being of trans and queer employees.
Support resilience and inclusion: Identify inclusion strategies for employers and teams to create a safe, respectful and supportive work environment for trans and queer people.
Foster safe environments: Discover best practices to strengthen the resilience and safety of 2SLGBTQIA+ employees in the workplace, including mental health and community support resources.
Raise awareness and engage stakeholders: Educate and engage teams on the importance of inclusivity in a tense political context, to enable everyone to be an effective ally in the workplace.

Target Audience:

DEI and HR professionals and managers in Alberta, Saskatchewan and elsewhere
Members and allies of employee resource groups supporting 2SLGBTQIA+ and francoqueer communities
Organizations committed to diversity and inclusion, particularly for linguistically and gender-diverse populations

Presentation:
Rose-Eva Forgues-Jenkins (she/her), Project Coordinator at Comité FrancoQueer de l’Ouest
Rose-Eva Forgues-Jenkins is a queer woman who grew up in the French-speaking community of Edmonton, in Treaty 6 territory. She studied at the University of Alberta, where she completed her Bachelor’s degree in Psychology and Film Studies. She has worked in radio, youth education and community research. Rose-Eva was named a ‘Top 30 Under 30’ by the Alberta Council for Global Cooperation in 2020. She has worked as Program Manager for the Comité FrancoQueer de l’Ouest since 2021. She has been on the Board of Directors of the Pride Centre of Edmonton since 2019.

Accessibility:

Spoken language: French
Automatic translation: French to English
Close 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.

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 events@prideatwork.ca.

Webinar: Closing the Gaps: Advancing Financial Equity for 2SLGBTQIA+ Employees [Partners Only - EN]
2025-01-29 12:00 - 13:00 (America/Toronto)
Wednesday, January 29, 2025, from 12 PM to 1 PM ET – this event is exclusive for employees of our Proud Partners and Community Partners.
Live Captioning will be provided by 3 Play Media Canada.
Financial equity is critical for creating truly inclusive workplaces. While strides have been made toward achieving legal equality for 2SLGBTQIA+ communities, economic disparities persist. This webinar will explore the wealth and benefits gaps that continue to affect 2SLGBTQIA+ employees and outline actionable steps organizations can take to foster financial security. From considerations 2SLGBTQIA+ employees have for their pension plans and retirement strategies to inclusive benefits that address unique community needs, this session will provide HR professionals, benefits coordinators, and decision-makers with tools to ensure financial equity. Attendees will also learn how financial institutions and businesses can adapt their products and services to meet the needs of diverse workforces.
Learning Objectives:

Identify how inequality shows up for your 2SLGBTQIA+ employees
Examine the considerations 2SLGBTQIA+ employees have for their wealth and health benefits
Implement tools to make your organization’s wealth and health benefits more equitable for all employees

Target Audience:

HR professionals
DEI professionals
ERG leaders

Presentation:
Janet Spreitzer (she/her), Keynote Speaker, Writer, Advocate
A Toronto based money expert, Janet has spent her career working in finance and volunteering to advance LGBTQIA+ inclusion. For over 20 years, Janet has worked on Bay Street for finance and insurance firms, seeing wealth management “from the inside”. Janet is also an avid advocate for LGBTQIA+ inclusion. She’s a founding member of her company’s LGBTQ+ ERG, and served on several volunteer boards serving the Toronto LGBTQIA+ community, including 4 years as chair of board for Start Proud. Her latest venture, Queerly Wealthy, focuses on highlighting the economic inequalities faced by the LGBTQIA+ community, and working towards narrowing the economic gap faced by her community. Janet believes that the best way to create inclusion for any equity seeking group is by leveling the financial playing field. Money gives people options – to DO and BE whatever you can dream of!

Accessibility:

Spoken language: English
Automatic translation: English to French
Close 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.

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 events@prideatwork.ca.

Rendez-Vous: 2SLGBTQIA+ Women x Non-Binary Digital Connect [EN & FR]
2025-02-11 12:00 - 13:30 (America/Toronto)
Tuesday, February 11, 2025, from 12:00 PM to 1:30 PM EST – This is a free online networking event for 2SLGBTQIA+ women and non-binary people.

Pride at Work Canada has been bringing 2SLGBTQIA+ women and non-binary* professionals and job seekers together for years. As many 2SLGBTQIA+ women and non-binary people don’t feel safe in many professional networking spaces, Rendez-Vous: 2SLGBTQIA+ Women x Non-Binary Digital Connect creates a unique opportunity for 2SLGBTQIA+ women and non-binary people to make professional connections in a casual and comfortable setting – from anywhere!
*Pride at Work Canada understands that these terms may not resonate with everyone and endeavours to include all those who do not identify as men. This includes trans women, cis women, non-binary folks, agender folks, and more. We also host Matrices: Trans, Non-Binary & Agender Digital Connect to those who would prefer a trans, non-binary, and agender specific space.
During the session, we will embrace a peer networking approach to learning, where attendees will engage in open discussions, exchange experiences, and provide mutual support. Participants will take part in multiple breakout sessions, while building meaningful connections with other professionals and job seekers. We’ll then reconvene as a group to share reflections and conclude the event with a collaborative discussion.
Bilingualism: At this event, there will be a Francophone breakout room, and automated French captioning will be available.
Help us make Rendez-Vous a safer event! All attendees will be provided with a set of community guidelines prior to the event that they will be expected to read and honour. Discussion facilitators will be present in our breakout rooms, and there will be a BIPOC-specific breakout room, as well as a non-binary specific breakout room, for folks who wish to join that space.
Who should attend?
The purpose of this event is to provide space for folks who identify as 2SLGBTQIA+ women or non-binary. There is no desire to monitor anyone’s gender or create barriers to entry. If you come to this event you will be welcome. While the support of people who identify as allies to 2SLGBTQIA+ women and non-binary people and communities is always appreciated, please remember that the best support sometimes comes in the form of leaving space for people to connect around their shared identities and lived experiences.
Who can answer my questions about the event?
Please direct questions about this event to Templeton Sawyer (he/him), Leaderships Program Coordinator at templeton.sawyer@prideatwork.ca. You may also contact events@prideatwork.ca with questions about registrations and any Pride at Work Canada events and activities.
Accessibility:

Captioning will be provided by 3 Play Media Canada
English to French automated captioning
If you have any accessibility requests please email events@prideatwork.ca with requests by Tuesday, January 28, 2025

Limited number of participants in this free online networking event for 2SLGBTQIA+ women and non-binary people.
Registration for this event has closed.

Winter Pride / Fierté des neiges 2025
2025-02-18 17:00 - 20:30 (America/Toronto)
Wednesday, February 18, 2025, from 4:00 PM to 8:30 PM EST – This in-person event is open to the public and requires a ticket to attend.
Presented by Pride at Work Canada

Winter Pride returns on February 18, 2025, to Montreal for an evening of learning and networking with other 2SLGBTQIA + professionals and allies promoting workplace inclusion.
Host Partner

RBC – Royal Bank of Canada
1 Place Ville Marie, Montréal, Québec
When
February 18, 2025

4:00 PM to 5:00 PM – Leadership in Challenging Times (Bilingual Session)
5:30 PM to 8:30 PM – Networking Reception

Drinks and appetizers are included.
—

Winter Pride: Leadership in Challenging Times (Bilingual Session)
4:00 pm – 5:00 pm / Boardroom – 41st Floor
Presented by:

Join Pride at Work Canada for a compelling Winter Pride event focused on the vital role of 2SLGBTQIA+ leaders in a world where rights and representation face increasing challenges. Featuring Jade Pichette (they/them), Director of Programs at Pride at Work Canada, and members of Pride at Work Canada’s Board of Directors, this event will spotlight stories of resilience, strategies for advocacy, and actionable insights to empower leaders to navigate and thrive in difficult circumstances. Together, we will explore how inclusive leadership can foster change and solidarity in the face of adversity.
Speakers
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 in 2024 they made history as the first trans person to open the Toronto Stock Exchange and notably presented to the Senate of Canada on the importance of 2SLGBTQIA+ leadership.
Erin Roach is the Director, Diversity and Inclusion at Ubisoft where she leads the equity, diversity and inclusion strategy for its Canadian studios. She has taken a leadership role on national knowledge sharing networks such as the Women Entrepreneurship Knowledge Hub and the Future Skills research network. Her work focuses on multi-level system approaches to D&I, innovation and entrepreneurship, intersectionality and impact measurement.
Katia Aubin is an expert in reputation management and brand influence. She has developed captivating, engaging, and inclusive communication strategies for organizations such as Sid Lee, RDS, Ubisoft, and Rogers throughout her career. Her campaigns have made an impact in Quebec, Canada, and have been featured in international publications like The Wall Street Journal, The Atlantic, and The Verge.
Tickets*

$80 + taxes (Proud Partners and Community Partners)
$120 + taxes (Non-Partners)

*The session includes access to the following networking reception hosted by Tranna Wintour.
Networking Reception
5:30 pm – 8:30 pm / Quad – Main Floor

An evening of learning and networking, Winter Pride returns on February 18, continuing the annual tradition of bringing the Pride at Work Canada network to Montreal to celebrate the inclusion of 2SLGBTQIA + people in the workplace during the winter season. The evening will be hosted by comedian, singer, writer and producer Tranna Wintour, who returns to hosting for a second year after a notable participation in The Traitors Canada. The event will be held in person at the RBC QUAD in downtown Montreal.
Tickets**

$20 + taxes (Proud Partners and Community Partners)
$40 + taxes (Non-Partners)

**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.

Tickets for Winter Pride and the learning session are available on Eventbrite.

Webinar: Pink Shirts, Performativity and Progress [Partners Only - EN]
2025-02-26 12:00 - 13:00 (America/Toronto)
Wednesday February 26, 2025 from 12 PM to 1 PM ET – this event is exclusive for employees of our Proud Partners and Community Partners.
Pink Shirt Day held the last day of February has become a regular observance for schools and workplaces. This often includes photos on social media with big smiles and a generalized message about bullying. As we look at observances often they lose their initial impact and become more about image than impact.
During this session run by Pride at Work Canada’s Director of Programs Jade Pichette, there will be a discussion about how observances can be utilized to make real change. We will look at how we can work in allyship with 2SLGBTQIA+ communities and build workplaces that celebrate belonging by utilizing observances.
Learning Objectives:

How major observances for the 2SLGBTQIA+ community originated
What is performative actions, and how can they be avoided
How to utilize observances in a way to promote allyship

Target Audience:

All employees
DEI professionals
HR professionals

Presenter:
Jade Pichette (they/them), Director of Programs, Pride at Work Canada
Jade Pichette (they/them) 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 were one of the authors of Transitioning Employers: A survey of policies and practices for trans inclusive workplaces and are the cohost of the Uncovering Belonging Podcast. In their spare time they can be found geeking out over queer, trans, and Norse histories, disability justice, interfaith advocacy, firekeeping, and spending time with their chosen family.

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.

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 events@prideatwork.ca.

Pride at Work Canada: Federal Funding Announcement
2025-03-05 11:00 - 13:00 (America/Edmonton) | Calgary Petroleum Club, 319 5 Avenue SW, Calgary, Alberta, T2P0L5, Canada
Join us for a groundbreaking moment in Canada’s energy sector!
Pride at Work Canada, in partnership with Pride in Business, invites you to a special networking lunch at the Calgary Petroleum Club on March 5, 2025.
At this exclusive event, we’ll unveil a historic federal investment in 2SLGBTQIA+ workplace inclusion in Canada’s energy sector. This is your chance to:
✓ Hear from industry leaders: Featuring Colin Druhan (Pride at Work Canada) & Gregory John (Four Peaks Business Development Ltd.).
✓ Expand your network: Connect with professionals from across the energy sector.
✓ Celebrate a major milestone: Learn how this investment will transform workplaces for 2SLGBTQIA+ workers.

Date: Wednesday, March 5, 2025
Time: 11:00 AM – 1:00 PM MT
Location: Calgary Petroleum Club, 319 5 Ave SW, Calgary, AB

This project has been funded by Women and Gender Equality Canada.

THRIVE 2025 - Virtual Leadership Program
2025-03-11 18:00 - 20:00, 2025-03-18 18:00 - 20:00 (America/Toronto)
ABOUT THE PROGRAM
THRIVE is a ten-week virtual program that will develop the next generation of Two-Spirit, queer and trans people managers. Participants will get exclusive access to queer and trans leaders working at the highest levels of Canadian business and engage in important peer-to-peer discussions. Through live Zoom sessions, collaborative group study, and self-directed work our fifth THRIVE cohort will collectively unlock their potential as out leaders.
HOW TO PARTICIPATE
The fifth cohort of THRIVE will support a positive learning environment and peer-to-peer learning. The process by which those interested in participating will open on Thursday, December 5, 2024. The deadline for applications will be Wednesday, February 12, 2025. Those selected for the fifth THRIVE cohort will pay a participation fee, due upon acceptance:

Fee for employees of Pride at Work Canada’s Proud Partners & Community Partners: $1,500 (plus applicable taxes)
Fee for employees of other organizations: $2,000 (plus applicable taxes)

Applicants who are self-employed, employed by a nonprofit or by a registered charity may indicate their interest in being considered for a scholarship to THRIVE. Those accepted as scholarship participants will be charged no fee for participation.
Visit our THRIVE 2025 page for further details.

Webinar: Developing Diversified Funding Sources [Community Partner Only - EN]
2025-03-13 12:00 - 13:00 (America/Toronto)
Thursday, March 13, 2025, from 12 PM to 1 PM EDT – this event is exclusive for employees and board members of our Community Partners.
Live Captioning will be provided by 3 Play Media Canada.
As non-profits, making money is not our goal – but we need money to provide services and work towards our missions, so let’s talk about it! With many different funding models, which one is the right fit for your organization? How can you diversify your funding sources to become more resilient to changes in funding and revenue? Are there funding opportunities you haven’t explored yet? Join a panel of experts to learn from different organizational strategies.
Learning Objectives:

Learn about different funding models and opportunities
Discuss strategies for diversifying your revenue
Develop an understanding of how diverse funding models might apply to your organization

Target Audience:

Non-profit staff in fundraising and development roles
Non-profit executives and managers
Non-profit board members

Presentation:
Quinn Blue (he/him, they/them), Program & Engagement Coordinator, Pride at Work Canada
Quinn Blue is a professional in 2SLGBTQIA+ education and programming. Quinn spent over a decade working in the student movement, having held equity and inclusion-focused roles at the University of Ottawa and at Algonquin College. His formal education is in Women and Gender Studies and in Teaching Adult Learners. They’ve volunteered extensively with the Ten Oaks Project, which taught them about the incredible value of community building. Quinn is passionate about change-making and learning.

Brittan Hudson (they/them), Director of Programs, The Enchanté Network
Brittan is an Afro and Indo-Caribbean community developer with over 10 years of experience in program design, content creation and community-based facilitation. Currently, Brittan lives on the traditional territories of the Anishinabewaki, Haudenosaunee, Wendake-Nionwentsïo, and Mississauga peoples.
They are passionate about creating equitable environments for BIPOC, 2SLGBTQI+ and people living with disabilities. Their work is grounded by the experiences and knowledge shared by Black people across the diaspora, especially on topics such as Queer liberation, and Indigenous spiritualities. Throughout the years, Brittan has worked within various sectors focusing on disability justice, faith formation, decolonization and reconciliation.
When they are not working, Brittan enjoys exploring the outdoors, playing basketball and cultivating Queer joy.

Tristan Smyth (they/them), Managing Director, Propel Impact
A recognized nonbinary advocate working at the intersection of social impact, entrepreneurship, and venture capital, Tristan is the Managing Director of Propel Impact, supporting the nonprofit’s consulting and impact investing programming. During previous leadership roles, Tristan advised on or directed over $2 billion CAD in economic development activity and, in recognition of their work, was named by Future of Good as one of Canada’s top 21 Young Impact Leaders in 2019 and Forty Under 40 by the Ottawa Business Journal in 2023.
Outside of Propel, they lead a graduate seminar on responsible and impact investing for Carleton University’s School of Public Policy and Administration. Beyond work, Tristan is an advisor to Boann Social Impact and the Common Approach to Impact Measurement, as well as several impact-focused startups. Additionally, they serve on the boards of directors for Giyak Mishkawzid Shkagmikwe Corporation (GMS), Living Wage Canada, and Canadian Coalition for Community Investment.
Tristan holds an undergraduate degree from Mount Royal University and graduate degrees from the University of Toronto, Queen’s University, and Cornell University. Originally from the Prairies, they live in Quebec with their spouse, dog, and inordinate number of houseplants.

Accessibility:

Spoken language: English
Automatic translation: English to French
Close 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 quinn.blue@prideatwork.ca.

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

Webinar: Rebuilding Trust: Lessons from Canadian Blood Services for Workplace Inclusion [FR]
2025-03-19 12:00 - 13:00 (America/Toronto)
Wednesday, March 19, 2025, from 12 PM to 1 PM ET – This webinar will take place in English on March 26.
This session will focus on the ongoing efforts by Canadian Blood Services to rebuild and strengthen trust with 2SLGBTQIA+ communities. With the historic apology and updates to blood and plasma donor eligibility criteria, this webinar will highlight how Canadian Blood Services is addressing its past while looking forward. The event will explore the internal and external changes implemented to ensure inclusivity and equity, particularly for 2SLGBTQIA+ employees and donors. Participants will hear from key figures involved in this transformation, including Canadian Blood Services representatives and community leaders. A one-page infographic will also be shared as a resource for participants to use and share widely.
This program was made possible by the generosity of Canadian Blood Services financial donors.

Learning Objectives:

Understand the updated blood and plasma donor eligibility criteria at Canadian Blood Services and their impact on 2SLGBTQIA+ communities.
Learn about the organizational changes implemented to foster greater inclusion internally at Canadian Blood Services.
Explore how trust can be rebuilt within marginalized communities through policy changes and community engagement.
Gain insights into how other organizations can apply similar strategies to build trust and foster inclusive workplaces.

Target Audience:

2SLGBTQIA+ employees at Pride at Work Canada’s partner organizations
HR & DEI professionals
Leaders committed to staying informed about key developments affecting 2SLGBTQIA+ employees in Canada and fostering inclusive workplace practices.

Speakers:

Steph Kelly (she/her) , Canadian Blood Services
Stephanie Kelly (she/her) has dedicated her career to community development and stakeholder engagement. In her 25 years at Canadian Blood Services, she has led key initiatives to ensure that the voices of those affected by policy and program decisions are heard and reflected in meaningful outcomes. Stephanie is an active member of the Awareness of Visible and Invisible Disabilities (AVID) Employee Resource Group (ERG) and a longtime professional practitioner of the International Association for Public Participation (IAP2), adhering to its standards and principles.

Ken Monteith (he/him), Executive Director, COCQ-SIDA
Ken Monteith is the Executive Director of COCQ-SIDA (la Coalition des organismes communautaires québécois de lutte contre le sida). Trained as a lawyer, he worked in the community youth sector and in the HIV/AIDS sector. He participates actively in research, especially projects concerning the quality of life of people living with HIV and prevention for men who have sex with men. He holds degrees in Industrial Relations, Common and Civil Law from McGill University and was a member of the Québec Bar from 1991 to 2001, when he resigned to devote himself more fully to his community work on HIV/AIDS. Ken Monteith was diagnosed with advanced HIV infection in 1997.

Accessibility:

Spoken language: French
Automatic translation: French to English
Closed captioning provided: French to English
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.

Registration for this event has closed.

Matrices: Trans, Non-Binary & Agender Digital Connect [EN]
2025-03-25 12:00 - 13:30 (America/Toronto)
Tuesday, March 25, 2025, from 12:00 PM to 1:30 PM EDT – this is a free online networking event for trans, non-binary and agender people.

Pride at Work Canada is proud to present Matrices: Trans, Non-Binary & Agender Digital Connect, a free online networking event for trans, non-binary, and agender professionals and jobseekers! We will bring trans, non-binary, and agender professionals from across Canada.
In this session, we will explore a peer networking style of learning, where attendees will dive into meaningful discussions, share experiences, and offer mutual support. Participants will engage in multiple breakout sessions, while forging valuable connections with other professionals and job seekers. Following these individual interactions, we will come together as a group to reflect on the insights gained and close the event with a collaborative wrap-up.
Help us make Matrices a safer event! All attendees will be provided with a set of community guidelines for this event that they will be expected to read and abide by. Pride at Work Canada staff will be present in the main room at all times and volunteer facilitators will be rotating within some of the 1-1 speed networking rounds. Creating a welcoming space is a communal effort, we look forward to building a braver space based in communicating with compassion.
Captioning: At this event, there will be live captioning in English, and automated French captioning only available upon request two weeks previous to the event.
Why is this event taking place?
While many events and networks are inclusive of trans, non-binary and agender people there are questions and discussions unique to these community members and their experiences. Pride at Work Canada seeks to create space for professional and job-seeking trans, non-binary and agender people to find support from and make connections with one another. We hope to be responsive to the needs and suggestions expressed by our attendees as this feedback helps to shape future events.
Who should attend?
The purpose of this event is to provide space for folks who identify as trans, non-binary and agender. There is no desire to monitor anyone’s gender or create barriers to entry. If you come to this event you will be welcome. While the support of people who identify as allies to trans people and communities is always appreciated please remember that the best support sometimes comes in the form of leaving space for people to connect around their shared identities and lived experiences.
Who can answer my questions about the event?
Please direct questions about this event to Templeton Sawyer (he/him), Leaderships Program Coordinator at templeton.sawyer@prideatwork.ca. You may also contact events@prideatwork.ca with questions about any Pride at Work Canada events and activities.
Accessibility

Captioning provided by 3 Play Media Canada
If you have any accessibility requests please email events@prideatwork.ca with requests by Tuesday, November 5, 2024

Limited number of participants in this free online networking event for trans, non-binary and agender people.
Registration for this event has closed.

Webinar: Rebuilding Trust: Lessons from Canadian Blood Services for Workplace Inclusion [EN]
2025-03-26 12:00 - 13:00 (America/Toronto)
Wednesday, March 26 from 12 PM to 1 PM ET – Ce webinaire aura lieu en français le 19 mars.
This session will focus on the ongoing efforts by Canadian Blood Services to rebuild and strengthen trust with 2SLGBTQIA+ communities. With the historic apology and updates to blood and plasma donor eligibility criteria, this webinar will highlight how Canadian Blood Services is addressing its past while looking forward. The event will explore the internal and external changes implemented to ensure inclusivity and equity, particularly for 2SLGBTQIA+ employees and donors. Participants will hear from key figures involved in this transformation, including Canadian Blood Services representatives and community leaders. A one-page infographic will also be shared as a resource for participants to use and share widely.
This program was made possible by the generosity of Canadian Blood Services financial donors.

Learning Objectives:

Understand the updated blood and plasma donor eligibility criteria at Canadian Blood Services and their impact on 2SLGBTQIA+ communities.
Learn about the organizational changes implemented to foster greater inclusion internally at Canadian Blood Services.
Explore how trust can be rebuilt within marginalized communities through policy changes and community engagement.
Gain insights into how other organizations can apply similar strategies to build trust and foster inclusive workplaces.

Target Audience:

2SLGBTQIA+ employees at Pride at Work Canada’s partner organizations
HR & DEI professionals
Leaders committed to staying informed about key developments affecting 2SLGBTQIA+ employees in Canada and fostering inclusive workplace practices.

About the speaker:

Terrie Foster (she/they), manager of stakeholder engagement, Canadian Blood Services
Terrie (she/they) is registered nurse and longtime Canadian Blood Services employee. They currently work in stakeholder engagement, where they engage with diverse communities who are interested in the work Canadian Blood Services does. They are a member of CBS’s 2SLGBTQIA+ advisory committee, a member of Pride at Work Canada, and the co-chair of CBS’s 2SLGBTQIA+ ERG. Terrie is also a grateful blood recipient and has felt firsthand the impact that donation can make.

Francesco MacAllister-Caruso (he/they), Communications Officer, Community-Based Research Centre (CBRC)
Francesco MacAllister-Caruso (he/they) is a policy analyst and communications professional based on unceded Algonquin Anishinaabeg territory (Ottawa, ON). Since 2020, they have worked in the Community-Based Research Centre’s communications department, crafting compelling promotional products that support the organization’s research and advocacy on queer and trans health.
Francesco is also a doctoral candidate in political science at Concordia University in Tiohtià:ke (Montréal, QC). Their research explores 2S/LGBTQIA+ political representation, citizenship and policy problems in Canada. Passionate about bridging the gap between academia and public discourse, Francesco’s work is dedicated to making research and policy discussions more accessible and impactful.
In their free time, Francesco enjoys playing video games, cooking, baking bread, and gardening.

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.

Registration for this event has closed.

Webinar: Legal Best Practices for Addressing Workplace Harassment [Partners Only - EN]
2025-04-02 12:00 - 13:00 (America/Toronto)
Wednesday, April 2, 2025, from 12 PM to 1 PM EDT – this event is exclusive for employees of our Proud Partners and Community Partners.
In today’s evolving workplace, ensuring that everyone feels welcome and supported requires more than good intentions—it demands a solid foundation of policies, resources, and structured education for both staff and management. This webinar will explore the key measures organizations need to implement to drive inclusivity and respect for individual circumstances, with a focus on confidentiality and privacy.
Legal expert and guest speaker, Stephanie Young, will guide participants through the intersection of human rights principles, occupational health and safety obligations, and relevant case laws. Additionally, the session will cover strategies to prevent and address harassment in the workplace, ensuring compliance with legal standards while promoting a safe and supportive environment for all employees.
Join us to gain valuable insights into building a workplace that upholds dignity, safety, and inclusivity through practical legal frameworks and best practices.
Learning objectives:

Understand legal foundations of inclusion and gain insights into human rights principles, case law, and occupational health and safety obligations, particularly as they relate to sexual harassment, discrimination in the workplace
Learn how to create policies that respect employee confidentiality while ensuring inclusivity, allowing employees to feel safe and supported
Equip leaders with the knowledge to manage incidents such as harassment or discrimination, ensuring they are handled with legal and organizational accountability while protecting affected employees

Target audience:

HR professionals,
DEI leads,
senior executives,
legal and compliance officers,
Employee Resource Group (ERG) leaders,
health and safety officers, and
legal counsel.

Presenter

Stephanie Young (she/her), Partner, Borden Lander Gervais:
Stephanie practices labour and employment and human rights law. She advises public and private sector employers on a variety of employment and labour relations matters, including employment standards, policy development and revision, contracts, health and safety, accommodations and discrimination, severance packages and terminations, collective agreements, workplace harassment investigations and discipline. Stephanie represents employers in employment and labour-related litigation, including wrongful and constructive dismissals, employment class actions, human rights applications and grievance arbitrations.
In addition to her employment practice, Stephanie advises and represents health sector clients and other service providers in human rights cases pertaining to patient care or customer service. She is also experienced in accessibility legislation and accessibility compliance audits.
Stephanie has appeared as employer counsel before the Superior Court of Justice, the Divisional Court, the Ontario Court of Appeal, the Ontario Human Rights Tribunal, the Ontario Labour Relations Board and labour arbitrators.

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

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 events@prideatwork.ca.

Webinar: Vote Rainbow Equality: Engaging in the Federal Election [EN]
2025-04-16 12:00 - 13:00 (America/Toronto)
Wednesday, April 16, 2025, from 12 PM to 1 PM EDT
With a federal election underway, join us to explore how you can show up and vote for issues impacting queer and trans people. This session will equip attendees with strategies to protect and uphold queer and trans human rights, and push back against the targeting of queer and trans human rights.
Fae Johnstone of the Society of Queer Momentum, will share the creative, engaging, and non-partisan election campaigns “Drag the Vote” and “Vote Rainbow Equality”. Learn how you and your communities and workplaces can get out to vote for the issues that matter.
Learning objectives:

Understand the Drag the Vote and Vote Rainbow Equality Campaigns
Explore how queer and trans issues are being targeted
Learn practical actions to protect and uphold queer and trans human rights

Target audience:

Queer and trans people
Allies dedicated to upholding human rights

Presenter

Fae Johnstone (she/her), Executive Director, Society of Queer Momentum
Fae Johnstone has dedicated her life to advancing equality, freedom and rights for queer and trans people. With over a decade of advocacy under her belt, she is a force to be reckoned with and one of Canada’s most prominent queer human rights advocates.
As Executive Director and Co-Founder of the Society of Queer Momentum, Fae is on a mission to mobilize advocates and allies towards a more free, equal and socially just future. Within her advocacy, she travels across Canada supporting queer advocates and allies on the ground, gracing conference stages and building bridges with allies and sibling movements in every province and territory.
Fae has received numerous awards and accolades for her work, including serving as Grand Marshal of the Ottawa Capital Pride Parade in 2023 and National Grand Marshal of Saskatoon Pride in 2024. She was also on a chocolate bar.

Registration for this event has closed.
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

SPARK Toronto 2025
2025-04-30 13:30 - 19:00 (America/Toronto) | EY Tower – Toronto, 100 Adelaide St W - 40th Floor, Toronto, ON, M5H 0E2, Canada
Wednesday, April 30, 2025, from 1:30 PM to 7:00 PM EDT – This in-person paid leadership event is open to all who wish to register and has a limited number of participants.

Find inspiration. Leave with a new perspective. Spark impactful change.
SPARK Toronto 2025 is an exclusive, interactive event that connects business leaders with the global change makers who are driving 2SLGBTQIA+ equity forward. Unlike traditional conferences, SPARK Toronto 2025 fosters intimate, impactful connections with individuals who are shaping the global workplace and human rights landscapes.
This is not a “sit and listen” event that could be replaced with a webinar. SPARK Toronto 2025 is a must-attend experience that brings together cutting-edge strategies, and actionable insights for businesses ready to elevate their approach to inclusion in Canada and globally.
This Year’s Theme: From Global to Local
As we have been seeing worldwide progress for 2SLGBTQIA+ rights and inclusion over the past decades, we are now seeing a global backlash against Two-spirit, queer, and trans rights. This backlash has been global in reach with a number of countries recriminalizing LGBTQIA+ people, restricting access to gender-affirming care, banning drag as an artform, the banning of books and more. With international speakers this SPARK will focus on how we continue to promote 2SLGBTQIA+ inclusion at home within this global context.
Event Objectives:

Global Insights, Local Impact: Showcase strategies for workforce effectiveness by engaging directly with human rights advocates and business leaders from Canada, the USA, Mexico, the Netherlands and beyond.
Connection & Collaboration: Create unique opportunities to interact face-to-face with changemakers like David Pollard (he/him), Co-Founder & Executive Director of the Workplace Pride Foundation, and other global leaders.
Action-Oriented Learning: Provide actionable takeaways for Canadian companies to thrive in:
Tougher markets where LGBTQIA+ rights are under threat.
Emerging markets where opportunities are expanding with recent advancements like same-sex marriage legalization or decriminalization of homosexuality.
Deepen Sponsorship Impact: Align sponsor brands with global 2SLGBTQIA+ progress while creating authentic connections with decision-makers in HR and workforce development.

GOLD SPONSOR

HOST SPONSOR & LOCATION

EY
EY Tower
100 Adelaide St W – 40th Floor
Toronto, ON M5H 0E2

Keynote Speaker:

David Pollard (he/him)
Executive Director, Workplace Pride Foundation

David Pollard is co-founder and Executive Director of the Workplace Pride Foundation. The Foundation represents the LGBTIQ+ networks of more than 130 prominent companies and organizations and strives for greater LGBTIQ+ workplace inclusion internationally.
He has worked for 30+ years in the international corporate world, 20 of which have been dealing with LGBTIQ+ issues from an international Civil Society perspective. David is founder and former Global Chairman of ING’s LGBTIQ+ employee network and, in his 16 year career at ING, fulfilled a number of responsibilities including the creation and management of ING’s European Affairs Department.
David holds degrees in International Relations (BA, Political Science and Business, University of Oklahoma, USA) and in European Affairs (Masters: Diplome d’Etudes Europeén, Université Catholique de Louvain, Belgium). He lives in Amsterdam with his husband Michael.

Emcee:

Tranna Wintour (she/her)

Tranna Wintour was revealed to the French-Canadian audience during her remarkable stint in the second season of Big Brother Célébrités, the Quebec version of Celebrity Big Brother, in which her personality, her resilience and her humour burst onto the screen.
However, Tranna’s career began about ten years earlier in Anglophone Canada, where she was actively developing her talents as a comedian, singer, author and producer. In 2019, she was named one of the 10 most promising comedians of Just for Laugh’s New Faces. That same year, Fashion Magazine crowned her as one of the queens of Canadian comedy. During this period, one of her flagship projects, the Chosen Family podcast produced by CBC, was named one of the best podcasts by Apple Canada for two consecutive years.
Since then, she has been a regular on a number of French and English events, including Juste pour rire, ComédiHa! and Just for Laughs galas, and popular TV shows such as En direct de l’univers and La semaine des 4 Julie. She is also a recurring featured guest on a lot of Quebec radio stations and podcasts.
Her career on stage continues to evolve at a rapid pace, thanks to her English-speaking or bilingual shows which garner significant attention from the media and the public. In 2023, Tranna was frequently called upon to open for the immensely popular comedian Matteo Lane, which she still does brilliantly to this day.
Tranna is more than ever an icon of the LGBTQ2S+ community, both in French-speaking and in English-speaking circles.

Speakers:

Grandmother Kim Wheatley (she/her)
Anishinaabe Cultural Consultant

Traditional Anishinaabe Grandmother Kim Wheatley is Ojibway, Potawatomi and Caribbean in ancestry. She is a band member of Shawanaga First Nation located on the shores of Georgian Bay on Robinson Huron Treaty Territories and is Turtle Clan. She carries the Spirit name “Head or Leader of the Fireflower” and has worked for 3 decades with Indigenous and non-Indigenous Communities across Canada.
As a multi award winning speaker for over 3 decades Kim has appeared locally, nationally and internationally in books, magazines, television, radio and numerous news articles. She is a published author, hand drummer, singer, water walker, artist & ceremonial practitioner. Kim is committed to forging good relationships based on acts of reconciliation that honour the past, connect the present and contribute to the future.

Shawnie Hawkins (she/her)
Senior Director of the Workplace Equality Program, HRC Foundation

RaShawn “Shawnie” Hawkins, SHRM-CP (she/her) Senior Director for the Workplace Equality Program at HRC Foundation. She has been an advocate and educator on LGBTQ+ workplace inclusion for over 15 years. In this role with HRC, she is responsible for managing key corporate and constituent engagement programs, namely educational resource development, training, ongoing communication platforms and multimedia projects addressing current and emerging LGBTQ+ subjects for advancing workplace inclusion efforts. Before joining the Foundation, she worked in the corporate space as a Human Resources Business Partner and as a Leadership Development professional, designing and implementing training curriculums for organizations across multiple industries like retail and telecommunications. RaShawn holds a BS from the University of Iowa and has a Leading in Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion certification from Northwestern University.

Francisco Robledo (he/him)
Founder & managing partner, ADIL diversidad e inclusion laboral. Implementing partner for Human Rights Campaign Foundation in Mexico

Entrepreneur, consultant and strategist in workplace inclusion since 2010. Trainer and speaker with 15 years of work experience, with special focus and interest in LGBTQ+ people. Graduate in Information Systems from UNAM. He worked in companies such as 3M and Telefónica Movistar. He was part of the 2024 class of Stanford University’s LGBTQ Executive Leadership Program.
In 2014, he founded ADIL Diversity and Labor Inclusion, a consultancy firm to promote total inclusion and non-discrimination policies and procedures for all people in their workspaces. Strategist behind initiatives such as forums on good practices of workplace inclusion, national surveys on workplace discrimination, editorial projects to make executive leaders visible in favor of diversity, equity and inclusion.
Regarding LGBTQ+ matters, since 2016 it has implemented in Mexico the certification for companies HRC Equidad MX Best Places to Work LGBTQ+ Equality, from the Human Rights Campaign Foundation, which in its 2025 edition more than 300 companies participate and impacto more than 1.4 million workers. From 2011 to 2022, he served more than 1,000 same-gender couples in civil registry procedures since the approval of marriage equality in Mexico City, until it was legislated in all the states of the country.

Moderators:

Latoya Nugent (she/her)
Head of Engagement, Rainbow Railroad

Latoya Nugent is a Black queer feminist, refugee, and movement strategist with over 15 years of experience in education, advocacy, and organizational leadership. Rooted in the Freirean philosophy of teaching for transformation, Latoya centers lived-expertise and collective power to reimagine systems and co-create a liberated future.
As Head of Engagement, at Rainbow Railroad, she leads high-impact strategies in design thinking, public engagement, and partnership development, driving alignment around a bold mission for global queer liberation. Her portfolio includes communications, volunteer mobilization, and refugee leadership—bridging community wisdom with institutional innovation to amplify reach and deepen impact.
Latoya’s leadership has been instrumental in the Caribbean, where she pioneered work at the intersection of Black feminisms, queer identities, and economic justice. A respected critical thinker and visionary, she continues to influence global conversations on equity and belonging.
Latoya has made Canada her home, thanks to the radical and revolutionary work of Rainbow Railroad and the kindness and compassion of The 519.

Colin Druhan (he/him)
Executive Director,
Pride at Work Canada

Jade Pichette (they/them)
Director of Programs,
Pride at Work Canada

Jose Patiño-Gomez (he/him)
Director of External Relations,
Pride at Work Canada
Agenda:

1:30pm – 2:45pm: Welcome and Opening Keynotes
2:45pm – 3:00pm: Networking Session / Break
3:00pm – 4:00pm: Regional Roundtable Discussions
4:00pm – 4:15pm: Networking Session / Break
4:15pm – 5:00pm: Key Reflections and Closing
5:00pm – 7:00pm: Networking Reception

Roundtable Facilitators:

USA: Colin Druhan (he/him), Executive Director, Pride at Work Canada & Shawnie Hawkins (she/her), Senior Director of the Workplace Equality Program, HRC Foundation
Mexico/Latam: Jose Patiño-Gomez (he/him), Director of External Relations, Pride at Work Canada & Francisco Robledo (he/him), Founder & managing partner, ADIL diversidad e inclusion laboral. (Implementing partner for HRC Mexico)
Europe: Jade Pichette (they/them), Director of Programs, Pride at Work Canada & David Pollard (he/him), Executive Director, Workplace Pride Foundation

What Makes SPARK Unique?

Intimacy and Access: This is an event where you don’t just hear from the leaders—you meet them.
Global Perspectives: SPARK Toronto 2025 provides the rare opportunity to engage with advocates and experts from Canada’s major trading partners (USA, Mexico and the EU) and beyond.
Future-Focused: With a focus on actionable insights, attendees leave equipped to drive real change within their organizations.

Audience:

C-suite and Senior Leaders
DEI and HR Professionals
2SLGBTQIA+ Employee Resource Group leaders

Accreditation Hours:
This program has been approved for 3 CPD hours under Section A of the Continuing Professional Development (CPD) Log of the Human Resource Professionals Association (HRPA). For more information about certification or continuing professional development, visit the HRPA website at: www.hrpa.ca.
Registration and Pricing:
LIMITED SEATS – Purchase your tickets as soon as possible. Registration is now open on Eventbrite, and the participation fees are:
Partner tickets: Senior leaders of Pride at Work Canada’s Proud Partners & Community Partners

$345.00 (+ tax) – Early Bird Price (Until March 20th)
$445.00 (+ tax) – Regular Price

General tickets: For senior leaders of other companies & organizations (non-partners)

$545.00 (+ tax) – Early Bird Price (Until March 20th)
$645.00 (+ tax) – Regular Price

Exclusive Access & Discounts: *All registrants will also receive an exclusive 15% discount to attend the Future of Work Canada 2025, taking place on April 1-2, 2025. **Early Bird registrants are eligible to apply for a complimentary VIP pass to the Future of Work Canada 2025 – Future Talent Conference. Passes are limited and will be granted to applicants who meet the required criteria (director level and above).
On Eventbrite, participants will be asked to inform some personal & professional details, accessibility requests, food restrictions & allergies, and to rank the roundtable conversations. For any additional questions reach out to us at events@prideatwork.ca.

Webinar: Busting Myths About DEI Data: Your Rights, Responsibilities, and Opportunities [Partners Only - EN]
2025-05-14 12:00 - 13:00 (America/Toronto)
Wednesday, May 14, 2025, from 12 PM to 1 PM EDT – this event is exclusive for employees of our Proud Partners and Community Partners.
Data collection is a cornerstone of successful DEI strategies, yet many organizations struggle to navigate the complexities of ethical and effective practices. This session will address common myths surrounding DEI data, clarify legal rights and responsibilities, and highlight opportunities for leveraging SOGIE (sexual orientation, gender identity, and expression) data to drive workplace inclusion.
With International Day Against Homophobia, Biphobia, and Transphobia (IDAHOBIT) on May 17, this webinar provides timely insights into how data collection can support efforts to combat systemic barriers faced by 2SLGBTQIA+ employees. By understanding key workforce trends, organizations can take meaningful actions to build equitable workplaces and uphold their commitments to diversity and inclusion.
Learning objectives:

Understand your legal rights and responsibilities around DEI data collection.
Learn how to leverage SOGIE data to inform your DEI initiatives.
Identify systemic barriers and use data to create targeted, effective solutions.

Target Audience:

HR leaders,
DEI professionals, and
Compliance teams.

About the speaker:

Sophia Dhrolia (she/her, they/them)
Sophia Dhrolia (she/they) is a DEI leader who is passionate about building a culture that values diversity, champions inclusion, and promotes collaboration to drive business results. She is committed to developing environments where differences are valued and where people are empowered to bring their authentic selves to the workplace. She focuses on breaking down systemic barriers, driving positive change in organizations, and on improving experiences.
Sophia speaks regularly on the importance of advocacy, inclusive language and creating cultures of belonging. She has been a keynote speaker for Steps of Pride 2022, CPHR in BC and Yukon, a featured guest on the ‘Mom Strength’ podcast and in high school classrooms. She is also the proud recipient of the 2024 Women in Payments advocate for Diversity & Inclusion award and 2022 Women in IT ‘Diversity Lead of the Year’ award.

Accessibility:

Spoken language: English
Automatic translation: English to French
Subtitles provided: English and French
Format: Virtual (Zoom in webinar mode)
Type of engagement: participants are invited to interact via the chat (no audio or video)
Please register below for any additional accessibility requests. For any questions, you can email info@prideatwork.ca.

Registration for this event has closed.

This event is exclusive for employees and board members of our Proud Partners and Community Partners. If you would like to register after the deadline, please send an email to events@prideatwork.ca.

Winnipeg ProPride 2025
2025-05-28 17:30 - 20:30 (America/Winnipeg) | Canadian Museum for Human Rights, 85 Israel Asper Way, Winnipeg, MB, R3C 0L5, Canada
May 28, 2025 from 5:30 pm to 8:30 pm CT – 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 engaging evening of networking and connection, dedicated to advancing 2SLGBTQIA+ rights and fostering inclusive workplaces. This event brings together professionals, community members, and job seekers from diverse industries to share experiences, exchange ideas, and build meaningful relationships.
Attendees will have the opportunity to engage in conversations about human rights in the workplace, inspired by the exhibit Love in a Dangerous Time, which reflects on the LGBT Purge and its ongoing impact. Hosted by the Canadian Museum for Human Rights, this gathering offers a welcoming space to expand your network, gain new insights, and connect with like-minded individuals committed to driving positive change.
HOST PARTNER

The Canadian Museum for Human Rights
85 Israel Asper Way, Winnipeg, MB R3C 0L5

Learning Objectives:

Connect with leaders from a variety of industries.

Audience:

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

Speaker:

Albert McLeod (he/him, she/her),
2Spirit Advocate, Human Rights Activist & Consultant

Albert McLeod is a Status Indian with ancestry from Nisichawayasihk [nish-i-ch-way-a-sik] Cree Nation and the Metis communities of Cross Lake and Norway House in northern Manitoba. He has over thirty years of experience as a human rights activist and was one of the founders of the 2-Spirited People of Manitoba. Albert began his 2Spirit advocacy in Winnipeg in 1986 and became an HIV/AIDS activist in 1987. He was the director of the Manitoba Aboriginal AIDS Task Force from 1991 to 2001. In 2018, Albert received an Honorary Doctorate of Laws from the University of Winnipeg. He was also a member of the sub-working group that produced the MMIWG – 2SLGBTQQIA+ National Action Plan Report in 2020-2021. In 2020, Albert joined Team Thunderhead, the team that recently won the international competition to design the 2SLGBTQI+ National Monument in Ottawa. Albert lives in Winnipeg, where he works as a consultant specializing in Indigenous peoples, 2Spirit history and identity, cultural reclamation, and cross-cultural training.

Emcee:

Issa Kixen
Producer, CBC

Issa Kixen is an Anishinaabe Two Spirit comedian/journalist/Producer who is a band member of Couchiching First Nation, Ontario. They have travelled across Canada and the USA as a Comedian and improviser. They use comedy as a tool in dealing with racism, transphobia and ableism.

Performer:

Artemyst, the Bannock Babes

Artemyst is a dynamic and captivating Two-Spirit drag performer based on Treaty 1 Territory. As a member of the Bannock Babes – an all Indigenous drag collective, Artemyst has been electrifying the stage since premiering a little over a year ago. She is celebrated for her performances that blend artistry with glamour, humour, theatricality, and a touch of mystery. As your current reigning Entertainer of the Year, Artemyst brings elegance, nerve, and everything in between to every appearance.

Accessibility:

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

Fireside Chat with Harini Sivalingam: Legal Challenges Facing the 2SLGBTQIA+ Community
May 28, 2025 from 3:30 pm to 4:30 pm CT
Canadian Museum for Human Rights, 85 Israel Asper Way, Winnipeg, MB R3C 0L5
Join us for an engaging and thought-provoking fireside chat with Harini Sivalingam who is the Director of Equality Programs at the Canadian Civil Liberties Union, a distinguished legal expert and advocate, as part of Pride at Work Canada’s Winnipeg ProPride event. In this conversation, we will explore the current legal challenges faced by the 2SLGBTQIA+ community, including barriers to equality, discrimination in workplaces and public spaces, and the evolving landscape of human rights protections in Canada.
With a wealth of experience in social justice and legal advocacy, Harini will provide valuable insights into pressing legal issues, recent policy developments, and strategies for fostering greater inclusivity and protection under the law. This discussion will offer attendees an opportunity to gain a deeper understanding of the legal landscape and how they can contribute to meaningful change.
Whether you are an employer, a community advocate, or simply interested in learning more about legal rights and protections, this fireside chat is an essential conversation on the ongoing pursuit of equity and justice for 2SLGBTQIA+ individuals. Don’t miss this opportunity to engage with an expert and be part of a dialogue that shapes a more inclusive future.
Learning Objectives:

Understand the Current Legal Landscape – Gain insight into the key legal challenges affecting the 2SLGBTQIA+ community, including discrimination, barriers to accessing justice, and recent policy changes in Canada.
Explore the Impact of Legal Barriers – Examine how legal and systemic challenges impact 2SLGBTQIA+ individuals in workplaces, healthcare, and public life, and discuss strategies for addressing these barriers.
Empower Advocacy and Action – Learn how individuals, organizations, and allies can support legal advocacy efforts, promote inclusive policies, and contribute to meaningful change for 2SLGBTQIA+ rights in Canada.

Audience:

2SLGBTQIA+ community members
Lawyers and legal professionals
Allies looking to understand the legal challenges facing 2SLGBTQIA+ communities

Tickets:

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 4:30 PM to 5:30 PM CT, where you’ll have the chance to network with fellow guests.
For in-person access, please register here (limited capacity).
Keynote Speaker:

Harini Sivalingam (she/her)
Director of the Equality Program, CCLA

Harini Sivalingam (she/her) is Director of the Equality Program at the CCLA. She oversees and executes advocacy strategies for marginalized individuals and groups whose right to full equality has not been realized. Her work at CCLA includes monitoring significant equality issues and egregious violations across Canada, strategizing on litigation interventions, public outreach and education, and engagement with policymakers of issues concerning equality.
Harini is a member of the Law Society of Ontario and has law degrees from Osgoode Hall Law School (LLB) and McGill University (LLM). She is in the process of completing a PhD in Socio-Legal Studies at York University, pursing research on the lived experiences of maritime forced migrants as they navigate legal and non-legal governance over borders and mobilities.
Harini is also an adjunct instructor in the Graduate Diploma in Immigration and Citizenship Law at Queen’s University and has taught courses on the Foundations of Canadian Immigration Law and Refugee Protection Law.
Harini has advocated for access to justice in low-income communities as a law student and lawyer working in community legal aid clinics in the area of worker’s rights, tenant’s rights, advocating for social assistance and ODSP recipients, and newcomer and refugee communities.
For over two decades Harini has been involved in anti-racism activism and community organizing on domestic and international human rights issues. She was an intern at the International Service for Human Rights in Geneva, monitoring and reporting on various United Nations human rights bodies. Harini has also served on the Board of Directors for Lawyer’s Rights Watch Canada.

Moderator:

Jade Pichette(they/them)
Director of Programs, Pride at Work Canada

Jade Pichette (they/them) 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 were one of the authors of Transitioning Employers: A survey of policies and practices for trans inclusive workplaces and are the cohost of the Uncovering Belonging Podcast. In their spare time they can be found geeking out over queer, trans, and Norse histories, disability justice, interfaith advocacy, firekeeping, and spending time with their chosen family.

Ottawa Roundtable on the Status of 2SLGBTQIA+ Human Rights
2025-07-16 15:00 - 17:00 (America/Toronto)
Hosted by Gowling WLG, Ottawa, Canada, in Collaboration with the Embassy of the Kingdom of the Netherlands to Canada
On July 16, leaders from civil society, the private sector, and government will come together to explore how Canada and the Netherlands can learn from each other’s approaches to affirming the human rights of 2SLGBTQIA+ people, with a special focus on queer and trans economic participation. This roundtable brings together a diverse cross-section of leaders, advocates, policy experts, senior executives, and government officials, each offering a unique perspective on the rights of 2SLGBTQIA+ people and their connection to Canada’s economy.
Following the roundtable, a small reception welcomes a broader group of community members, advocates, and professionals—extending the conversation in a more informal setting and fostering connection across sectors.

* About Our Invitation-Based Events
Pride at Work Canada regularly hosts small, intentional roundtables and gatherings across the country that bring together voices from government, business, advocacy, and community sectors. These spaces are designed to support honest dialogue, knowledge exchange, and strategic collaboration.
Participation is by invitation to ensure a balanced group across types of organizations, identities, sectors, and lived experiences related to the themes at hand. We consider both professional expertise and community insight when shaping these conversations, and we center engagement from our Proud Partners and Community Partners, while also welcoming expressions of interest from others doing meaningful work in this space.
If you’d like to be considered for future events, you can reach out to Jose Patiño-Gomez, Director of External Relations, or fill out this short form to register your interest.

Atlantic Ambassador Meeting
2025-07-22 09:30 - 10:30 (America/Toronto)
The Ambassador Program operates as a series of regional groups made up of representatives from our Proud Partner network who share best practices and strategies for creating 2SLGBTQIA+ affirming work environments.
To learn more about the program and join, visit https://prideatwork.ca/programs/ambassador-program/

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.

Manitoba Ambassador Meeting
2025-08-12 11:00 - 12:00 (America/Toronto)

Webinar: FLOURISH Information session
2025-08-12 16:00 - 17:00 (America/Toronto)
FLOURISH is an eight-week virtual program that will develop the skills required for 2SLGBTQIA+ Employee Resource Group (ERG)* leaders to be effective and successful in their roles. Those who lead 2SLGBTQIA+ ERGs have an enormous opportunity to create change for Two-Spirit, queer and trans employees. They also face very specific challenges in Canadian workplaces. While session content will touch on the mechanics of ERGs, the primary focus of FLOURISH will be developing individual competency in four areas:

From Policy to Practice – Living Our Rights, Honoring Our Identities
Telling the Story/Impact of Your ERG
Navigating Polarization
Principles of Peer Support

Through live Zoom sessions, virtual learning modules and self-directed work, our FLOURISH program will collectively unlock their potential as ERG leaders.
Interested in learning more? Sign up to this information session!
Key Learning Objectives:

Provide an overview of the FLOURISH 2025 program structure and timeline
Highlight the importance and impact of 2SLGBTQIA+ ERG leadership in Canadian workplaces
Explain the types of learning experiences and activities participants can expect
Answer questions and provide clarity on eligibility, registration, and support

Audience:

This event is for anyone interested in knowing more about the FLOURISH 2025 program

About the Speaker:

Templeton Sawyer (he/him)
Leadership Programs Coordinator, Pride at Work Canada

Templeton Sawyer was an Employment Support Practitioner with Teamwork Cooperative, the host of Tweet the Leader in You podcast, and co-facilitator of the CEI and Teamwork’s Youth-Focused Community of Practice in Halifax Nova Scotia. He brings a great deal of lived experience to the table and is a passionate Youth Advocate who seeks to help youth in both Nova Scotia, Ontario and the Bahamas believe in themselves and increase their self-confidence through leadership and skill development programs. When Templeton thinks about the word inclusion, he has a passion to place action into including everyone. Templeton continues his inclusion advocacies through a Youth Focused Community of Practice which he Co-Author, this space provides service providers to grow and develop new strategies to serve youth and people in general.

Accessibility:

Spoken language: English
Closed captioning provided: English
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
Registration for this event has closed.

Quebec Ambassdor Meeting
2025-08-13 12:00 - 13:00 (America/Toronto)
