Commemorated annually in June, Pride month is a time to recognize the experiences and history of diverse 2SLGBTQ+ communities while also celebrating life and joy. Locally, this month comes from a legacy of Toronto queer activists, reminding us of its political history and ongoing activism that 2SLGBTQ+ activists continue to fight for today.
As Seneca Polytechnic strives to build a culture where sexual and gender diversity can thrive, this month is a time to promote equity and visibility and reflect on how we can collectively hold space for diverse 2SGLBTQ+ communities throughout the year.
Shown here is the Intersex Progress Flag. Designed by Valentino Vecchietti, this flag incorporates the Intersex Flag with the Progress Flag which integrated transgender flag colours and the colours black and brown, representing queer racialized people. These stripes are in a shape of an arrow, signaling work to be done with marginalized 2SLGBTQ+ communities.
The pride flag is a symbol of the 2SLGBTQ+ community to feel seen, valued and safer. Displaying the pride flag is an act of unity, while also showing commitment to welcome and support 2SLGBTQ+ communities.
Reference: UBC Equity & Inclusion Office. (2022, October 17). Pride flags. University of British Columbia. https://equity.ubc.ca/pride-flags/
Date: Thursday, July 4
Time: 4 to 7 p.m.
Location: Room A1531AB (The Great Hall), Building A, Newnham Campus
Join us for an unforgettable night where you can celebrate your authentic self in a vibrant and inclusive space. This is your chance to express yourself, learn more about the art of drag, and interact with talented drag performers.
The 2SLGBTQ+ Seneca community and allies are invited to participate. We ask that everyone show empathy, understanding, respect and open-mindedness while attending. Come as you are!
Register to attend here.
Date: Tuesday, June 4
Time: 11 a.m. to noon
Location: Courtyard, Seneca@York Campus (flag raising will occur in the Courtyard, followed by talk in Kaleidoscope S1209)
Take part in the annual flag raising ceremony to commemorate Pride Month, including remarks from the President. The flag raising ceremony will be immediately followed by a special talk with Pride Toronto’s 2023 Trans Ambassador, Kitanya Wiltshire (she/her), who will share her advocacy work at the Black Coalition for AIDS Prevention (Black CAP) and discuss the urgent need to break systemic barriers through a culturally responsive lens.
All are welcome to attend and light refreshments will be served.
Email the Office of Reconciliation and Inclusion for access needs.
About Kitanya Wiltshire
Kitanya Wiltshire was born and raised on the tropical Island of Barbados. Immediately upon her arrival in Canada, she became a Trans activist. Holding a Master’s degree in Social Work and working as the Intake Coordinator and Trans Program Lead in Mental Health Services and Support for the Black Coalition For Aids Prevention, Kitanya is heavily involved in the community as she pioneers for the rights of the Trans and Non Binary community.
Kitanya currently leads the only Black Trans Department at The Black Coalition for Aids Prevention and previously helped implement the organization’s only Trans Identification Clinic. Another significant contribution under her belt was spearheading the ACB Trans Women Harm Reduction program, and she has continued to serve the community through this role. Every day, she fights to solve and break the systemic barriers which the Trans community faces.
Date: Thursday, June 6
Time: 5:30 to 7:30 p.m.
Location: Room K2100B, Building K, Newnham Campus
Join Rainbow Hangout for a community discussion on queerness, authentic representation and navigating being a 2SLGBTQ+ student at Seneca.
2SLGBTQ+ students from all campuses are welcome at this event! Allies are welcome to participate and are asked to bring empathy, understanding, respect and open-mindedness.
Join the SSF in a fun game of sex toy bingo! Students will raise their awareness of sex education and get a chance to win sex toys.
King Campus
Markham Campus
Newnham Campus
Join the SSF for a special drag performance! Witness the possibilities of self expression through drag performances and celebrate local drag artists.
Seneca@York Campus
Date: Wednesday, June 19
Time: 9:45 a.m. to 3:15 p.m.
Location: Meet at Newnham campus for shuttle bus to Church Street and Wellesley Street (Additional shuttle buses available from Seneca campuses to Newnham)
Join us for a special tour of the Village at Church and Wellesley, the historic home of Toronto’s 2SLGBTQ+ communities. This neighbourhood has been known for decades as a gathering place for 2SLGBTQ+ people and continues to be shaped by diverse folks from the past, present, and future. This event will include a 1.5 hour walking tour by Heritage Toronto, lunch, and free time to walk around the village.
All are welcome to attend and lunch will be provided.
Registration is required and limited space is available. Register here by June 14.
Learn more information about shuttle buses in the registration link.
Date: Thursday, June 20
Location: Room K2100B, Newnham Campus
Attend a special queer movie night hosted by Rainbow Hangout, the 2SLGBTQ+ student support group. Students and allies from all campuses are welcome to attend. This space is a place where respect, understanding, empathy and open-mindedness are encouraged.
Date: Thursday, June 13
Time: 12:30 to 2:00 p.m.
Location: Room K2001 (HELIX), Building K, Newnham Campus
Join Rainbow Hangout for a special event in collaboration with Seneca Works! The focus of this event is to provide 2SLGBTQ+ students with helpful tips on building skills required for career success and to address the unique challenges that 2SLGBTQ+ individuals may face when navigating the job market.
Date: Sunday, June 30
Time: Meet at 11:30 a.m.
Location: Bloor Street and Ted Rogers Street
Join the SSF and walk the 43rd annual Pride Parade!
Limited spaces are available. Register here to attend.
ProudER is a resource group for employees who identify as members of the 2SLGBTQQIANB+ communities at Seneca Polytechnic. The group provides an opportunity to connect, engage and champion the voices of employees, by galvanizing opportunities and navigating challenges. ProudER aspires to carve out both tangible and digital spaces for the community, through transformative curricula, proactive programs, and robust community outreach. Contact edi@senecapolytechnic.ca to join ProudER (for employees).
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