Show your Pride, Ridgebacks!

Canada's 2SLGBTQIA+ communities have faced both challenges and triumphs. Struggles for equity have inspired protests and marches that have grown into today's internationally recognized Pride celebrations.

In Toronto, the 1981 Bathhouse raids carried out by the Metropolitan Toronto Police faced heavy backlash from the community. The aftermath sparked what became the first Pride Week and Parade in the city.

This year, Toronto Pride Weekend takes place June 25 to 28 as part of Pride Month and Canada's larger Pride Season, which runs from June to September. Events will be held across the Durham Region and Greater Toronto Area throughout the month of June.

At Ontario Tech, the Student Engagement and Equity (SEE) office invites students and staff to participate in Pride events, learning opportunities, and the Daily Pride Challenge to show your support. Participate for a chance to win a prize pack of Pride swag and books written by 2SLGBTQIA+ authors!

Contest details:

• From June 1 to 5 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., stop by the SEE Office (Shawenjigewining Hall (SHA), Room 210) to pick up a Daily Pride Challenge calendar.
• Complete as many challenges as possible during the month of June.  
• Make sure to snap photos of the events and actions you participate in so that you are eligible for prizes. There will be 3 Pride swag bag prizes for the highest participation!
• Have fun and show your pride!

Stop by the SEE Office (SHA 210) for some additional Pride activities and giveaways:

• June 1 to 5: Along with your Daily Pride Challenge calendar, pick up some Pride pins!
• June 9: Get 2SLGBTQIA+ stickers for your water bottle and devices to spread awareness and show support.
• June 18: Relax and get creative by painting a Pride tote bag.
• June 30: From 11 a.m. to noon attend the Pride Wrap-Up Celebration on the second floor of Shawenjigewening Hall for light refreshments and prizes!

Equity Awareness Week

Equity Awareness Week spreads awareness and educates the university community about equity-related topics such as 2SLGBTQ+ Inclusion, Anti-Ableism, Anti-Islamophobia, Anti Racism, Classism, Health Equity, Feminism and First Generation Student Support. Stop by the equity informational booths at Shawenjigewining Hall and Charles Hall, Atriums to chat with Student Engagement and Equity staff and Equity Advocates, receive informational handouts, interact with peers, and discuss equity-related topics and issues. 

Be sure to follow @otstudentlife for great resources and additional information during the next Equity Awareness Week!

Let's Talk Sex

In response to student feedback provided to the Student Sexual Violence Prevention and Support Committee, Student Life has partnered with Durham College and the AIDS Committee of Durham to deliver workshops to provide education and destigmatization around topics of sex and sexuality. Part of building a culture of consent and respect on campus is providing space for conversations like these. 

Check back soon for upcoming dates!