Pride Month honours the
1969 Stonewall riots in New York that sparked a movement to challenge and dismantle discriminatory laws and practices against 2SLGBTQIA+ individuals in the U.S. While Pride is often marked by
celebrations around the world, it also serves as a call for greater unity, visibility, and equity for 2SLGBTQIA+ communities. It is a time to reflect on the history and milestones of the past 50 years.
The Stonewall Inn, 53 Christopher Street, Greenwich Village in more modern times (Credit: Getty Images).
Recognizing and embracing Pride Month at PHSA is an opportunity to work together towards a kinder and more inclusive world, highlighting our organizational priority to eradicate Indigenous-specific racism and create an anti-racist, safer culture, free from discrimination.
BCEHS team members took part in Pride celebrations province-wide in 2023.
This design is by Chase Gray, trans-Indigiqueer or Two-Spirit Musqueam and Tsimshian artist. The design features a raven spindle whorl with two ravens to represent what many Indigenous people identify with; Two-Spirit (“2S”). Ravens, known as tricksters, transformers, and catalysts for change, embody profound symbolism. Their playful and wise nature resonates with people throughout the northwest coast. The spindle whorl, inspired by traditional wool-spinning methods, holds great significance as weaving created from this wool is considered a form of wealth among Coast Salish peoples.
There continues to be a concerning increase in health misinformation campaigns, emboldened hate incidents, and negative media coverage which is affecting 2SLGBTQIA+ people, their families, and their health-care providers. For Pride Month, PHSA is focusing on reversing the effects of misinformation by encouraging action and learning.
Here are a few suggestions on where to begin:
PHSA is committed to establishing a safe and inclusive environment for everyone. This strengthens teams through greater diversity, leading to increased innovation and higher quality, people-centered health care. As a result, both our workforce and the patients and families we serve feel supported and celebrated.
