Fashion, history and art unite in Seneca's Pride Month celebrations | Reconciliation and Inclusion | Seneca Students

More than 70 students and employees participated in vibrant Pride Month celebrations at Seneca Polytechnic in June, including engaging in workshops, lectures and activities that highlighted the rich histories, resilience and creative brilliance of 2SLGBTQIA+ communities.  

The events began on Tuesday, June 3, with a Pride Kick-off event in the Alumni Atrium at King Campus. Elder Blu Waters opened the celebrations with a land acknowledgement, followed by a welcome and reflection from President David Agnew.  

A highlight of the celebration was a captivating lecture from Dr. Mark Joseph O’Connell, Professor of Fashion Studies at Seneca, who shared insights from his book, Lilac Times at the Rodeo: Stories of Identity, AIDS, and Fashion. Dr. O’Connell’s presentation wove together historical context, personal reflections and powerful stories of individuals in the fashion sector who have often been overlooked. Attendees received signed copies of the book, deepening their connection to these important narratives.  

Dr. O’Connell also highlighted the Seneca Fashion Diversity Project, an initiative that documents fashion stories from non-dominant groups in Canadian society, including Persons of Colour, Indigenous, 2SLGBTQIA+ individuals and those with disabilities. Using research methodology centered around artifacts from the Seneca Fashion Resource Centre, the project has already produced impactful outcomes. One student researcher has created an animated short film and article on Aiyyana Maracle, a Haudenosaunee trans woman, performance artist, activist and educator.   

Following the lecture, students and employees dove into creativity during a tie-dye workshop led by textile artist Julie Sinden from The Love of Colour. Participants were introduced to the different Pride flags and created vibrant designs and rainbow patterns on handkerchiefs and t-shirts. For more information on future events, please check the Reconciliation & Inclusion website. 

Browse the photo gallery from the event.