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Visibility Matters: Amplifying the Voices of 2SLGBTQIA+ Community on International Day of Pink

In a transformative Ask Me Anything (AMA) session held on April 10, 2024, the Canadian Coast Guard and National Defence, Diversity and Inclusion Office at Materiel Group embraced the Day of Pink theme of visibility for 2SLGBTQIA+. Facilitated by Emilie Plows and Alfonso Ralph Manalo, the event highlighted the importance of embracing one’s authentic self and cultivating inclusion and awareness within the Federal Public Service.

The International Day of Pink is designated to acknowledge the imperative of fostering safe and inclusive environments for queer communities throughout Canada. As Minister Marci len aptly stated, “2SLGBTQI+ communities throughout the country continue to face stigma and discrimination in every aspect of their lives including healthcare, safety, housing, and employment.” The International Day of Pink serves to foster awareness and inclusion for marginalised Queer communities, forging a future where everyone can embrace their authentic selves.

The AMA discussion focused on the meaning of visibility, featuring panellists Andrea Monrad, Mark Mindel, and Katherine Ip who offered valuable insights based on their lived experience. Andrea explained that “Visibility is risky; it can increase vulnerability. We all just want to be seen for ourselves, recognized for our contributions not targeted for our identities.” Andrea thus highlighted the need for champions and role models to drive positive change, emphasising the importance of intersectionality.

Building off Andrea’s observations, Mark addressed the importance of diverse representations reflective of Canada's population within the public service sector, stating “these merits of diversity need to be represented for what exists in the Canadian population with a diverse public service.” Katherine shared personal experiences that underscored the necessity of visibility for fostering psychological safety in the workplace. Katherine Ip's powerful reflections foreground the challenges faced by marginalised individuals, as she noted the transformative power of visibility. She emphasised the role of authentic representation in empowering the next generation and creating psychologically safe workspaces.

Remarking on initiatives to increase visibility and representation of the 2SLGBTQ+ community, panellists emphasised the importance of implementing legislative protection, organisational policies, and open discussions. They also suggested that to encourage respect and inclusion, we must build strong relationships, fostering communication and empowering employees to speak up. These are the hallmarks of a healthy and productive work environment. Mark highlighted the need for humility and inclusivity in workplace dialogues, while Katherine stressed the significance of representation in fostering understanding and acceptance.

The event concluded with an open invitation from Andrea Monrad to foster inclusive dialogues within the workplace, gesturing to the importance of respectful communication and mutual understanding.

The AMA International Day of Pink served to empower gender and sexual minority members of the Federal Public Service, showcasing the transformative impact of visibility and inclusion, while fostering a more equitable and accepting workforce. The panellists shared their stories in this courageous conversation and by doing so invited listeners to join together as co-conspirators for change. By amplifying marginalised voices, AMA continues to pave the way for a more inclusive future.