On 17 May, the colours of the Pride flag flew once more at Borden: red for life, orange for healing, yellow for sunlight, green for nature, blue for harmony, and violet for spirit.
The flag was raised at the 6th annual Pride Flag raising day at Borden, marking International Day Against Homophobia, Transphobia and Biphobia. The date is significant, as on 17 May, 1990, the World Health Organization homosexuality was declassified as a mental disorder.
“The Defence team acknowledges this event to draw attention to the violence and discrimination still experience today—today—by members of the defence team and CAF members, and to promote understanding and inclusivity within our environment,” said Lieutenant Colonel Bishop, CFSATE Commandant in his remarks to the crowd gathered for the flag raising ceremony, streamed live on Facebook for those who couldn’t attend in person.
“We all know that culture change takes time, and we are currently in the middle of one,” said LCol Bishop. “Despite the 20+ years since the end of the purge, some of our colleagues today remain unable to serve openly, free from harassment, and discrimination, free from fears. They deserve our support.”
“We can all contribute effectively to foster the promotion of an inclusive and diverse and respectful environment within our workplace, no matter the rank, no matter the position. We’re all part of the solution,” LCol Bishop continued.
It was an emotional send-off for the retiring Padre Niles, who created the Borden Pride Network in 2016 and helped lay the groundwork for similar groups in Bases and Wing’s across Canada.
“It’s my great privilege to be able to do this one last time before I release from the regular force and go into the civilian world,” said Padre Niles. “It was even a greater privilege to create the Borden Pride Network with wonderful people who sacrificed and who openly made the commitment to create something that has wrought change, not only here but across Canada in the Canadian Armed Forces.”
How to be an ally:
Take a look at the Guide on Equity, Diversity and Inclusion Terminology, which explains concepts related to equity, diversity, accessibility and inclusion. This evolving resource is a helpful tool in fostering empathy, curiosity and reflection in your conversations with others.
Get involved in the Borden Pride Network. Contact PO2 Cheryl Butler, BPN co-chair, at Cheryl.Butler@forces.gc.ca to learn more.
By: Emily Nakeff, Editor
