Why Pride Matters
Pride is more than parades, events, and festivities; it is a profound acknowledgment of the struggles, victories, and contributions of 2SLGBTQIA+ individuals and communities throughout history. It is a reminder that everyone deserves respect, dignity, and the freedom to be their authentic selves.
Our Commitment
The Equity and Inclusion Office reasserts our commitment to fostering an inclusive and affirming campus environment for all, including our 2SLGBTQIA+ students, faculty, staff, and alumni. We recognize their unique experiences and the intersections of their identities.
“Our commitment extends beyond Pride Month — it’s a year-round dedication to creating a campus where all 2SLGBTQIA+ community members feel valued and included,” says Dr. Barrington Walker, Vice Provost, Equity and Inclusion.
Please note that while at McMaster, you have the right to learn, work and live in a discrimination-free, respectful environment. Your human rights at McMaster are protected under the Discrimination and Harassment Policy and the Ontario Human Rights Code. If, as a member of a 2SLGBTQIAIA+ community, you have concerns related to your experiences at McMaster, please contact our office at equity@mcmaster.ca for support.
Pride Events
We are excited to co-present a free Pride event open to all members of the community.
“Beyond hashtags and rainbow washing: allyship in practice with Samra Habib”
June 5th from 12-130 p.m.
Virtual Event
bit.ly/AllyshipInPractice
Description:
Over the past few years, corporations and institutions have been eager to show their support for 2SLGBTQIA+ folks in their advertising campaigns and by changing their logo on social media every Pride. But is that enough? What does allyship that brings about meaningful change to the lives of queer folks actually look like? How can corporations and institutions ensure that their support for queer lives goes beyond performative gestures and brings about meaningful change? Samra will propose different possibilities, shaped by many intersectionalities and lived experiences that inform their perspective as a Queer Muslim immigrant.
Organized by Wilfrid Laurier University’s Gendered and Sexual Violence Prevention and Support Program , and McMaster University’s Sexual Violence Prevention and Response Office.
Lunch and Learn
June 17, 2024
12:00 p.m to 1:30 pm
“Creating Safer and Inclusive Campuses for 2SLGBTQIA+ people/communities”
Virtual Event: MS Teams Townhall (forthcoming)
Description:
We are pleased to announce that on June 17, 2024, from noon to 1:30 pm, the Equity & Inclusion Office will host a free virtual event for the McMaster community on “Creating Safer and Inclusive Campuses for 2SLGBTQIA+ people/communities.”
This event will be facilitated by Christine Hsu and Sookie Bardwell of Challenge Accepted. It will include a foundational understanding of the diverse identities and experiences of 2SLGBTQIA+ people/communities and tips on allyship for staff and faculty in supporting colleagues and students at McMaster. Christine and Sookie will share their own experiences both as nonbinary people and folks who have worked in post-secondary environments. Opening remarks will be delivered by Dr. Susan Tighe, Provost and Vice-President (Academic) and moderated by Eve Nyambiya, Anti-Black Racism Education and Programs Coordinator, Equity & Inclusion Office.