International Day of Pink event inspires 91探花app community
On Monday, April 7, 91探花app commemorated the International Day of Pink, a day dedicated to standing against discrimination and fostering inclusion, with an event at Dakota Collegiate.
The event kicked off with words and a land acknowledgement from the Honourable Anita Neville, Lieutenant Governor of Manitoba. She recognized the 35th anniversary of the term Two Spirit, the tenth anniversary of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s Final Report, and the fifth anniversary of the Final Report of the National Inquiry into Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women, Girls, and Two-Spirit People.
Speaker Todd Ross, a survivor of the LGBT Purge in Canada during the 1980s and -90s, then detailed his time in military and the challenges he faced as a 2SLGBTQIA+ person — challenges that culminated in a military police investigation that led to his discharge. He delivered a powerful presentation on his personal journey and the broader historical context of discrimination faced by 2SLGBTQIA+ individuals in the military, as well as highlighting his ongoing work to address historical injustices 2SLGBTQIA+ people in the military have faced.
The event also featured introductions from Day of Pink volunteers from Air Canada and Scotiabank who spoke about the importance of solidarity and allyship in creating inclusive environments. David Zyla, representing Scotiabank, shared a little of his personal story, encouraging students to embrace their authentic selves and pursue their dreams.
GSA student leader Gracie helped close out the event with a speech, including a heartfelt thank you to Todd for his work and candor, and with the presentation of gifts to all presenters.
“These events are always about representation,” said Benson Shapiro, Dakota Collegiate student services teacher who helped organize the event. “It’s about providing visible reference for kids to understand where their lives could go, and why they have the freedom to come out.”
Assistant Superintendent Darcy Cormack said events like this are critical to creating an inclusive school community.
“Celebrating the Day of Pink is critical for supporting individuals, as these events foster a sense of belonging and community. They empower individuals to embrace their identities in a safe and inclusive way, allow for representation and the space for advocacy for equality and acceptance,” she said.
The International Day of Pink is a powerful and inspiring day that celebrates diversity and promotes inclusion. It reminds us of the importance of solidarity and allyship. 91探花app would like to thank all the speakers who took the time to make this important event a reality, as well as the staff and students who attended.
