Pride recognizes the identities, experiences, contributions and resilience of 2SLGBTQIA+ communities. It is both a celebration and an opportunity to learn about the ongoing work needed to advance equity, inclusion and belonging.

Pride movements have deep roots in community organizing and resistance to discrimination. In Canada, events such as Toronto’s 1981 Bathhouse Raids mobilized 2SLGBTQIA+ communities and contributed to the growth of organized Pride demonstrations and celebrations.

While Pride Month is recognized each June, learning, allyship and community-building continue throughout the year. Ontario Tech is committed to fostering a campus where people of all sexual orientations, gender identities and gender expressions feel respected, supported and able to participate fully in university life.

Get involved

You can help create a more inclusive campus by:

• participating in Pride events and educational opportunities;
• learning about 2SLGBTQIA+ identities, histories and experiences;
• using inclusive language and respecting people’s names and pronouns;
• challenging stereotypes, discrimination and harmful behaviour;
• showing support for 2SLGBTQIA+ peers and colleagues; and
• connecting with campus and community resources.

Pride activities and learning opportunities may be offered throughout the year. Visit the Equity Events page or follow Student Engagement and Equity for current opportunities.

Learn more and find support

Explore Ontario Tech and community resources related to:

• 2SLGBTQIA+ inclusion and education;
• pronouns and inclusive language;
• discrimination and harassment support;
• campus and community supports; and
• upcoming equity events.

Equity Awareness Week

Equity Awareness Week is an Ontario Tech initiative that creates opportunities for students to learn about equity, inclusion and the diverse experiences of members of our campus community.

Offered during the academic year, the week brings the university community together through educational activities, conversations and campus outreach. It encourages participants to consider how identity, access, systems and social barriers can affect people’s experiences—and what each of us can do to help create a more equitable and inclusive campus.

Explore equity-related topics

Activities and resources may address topics such as:

• 2SLGBTQIA+ inclusion;
• accessibility and anti-ableism;
• anti-Islamophobia;
• anti-racism;
• classism and socioeconomic barriers;
• feminism and gender equity;
• health equity; and
• first-generation student experiences and support.

Specific topics and activities may change each year to reflect current issues and the needs of the Ontario Tech community.

Take part

During Equity Awareness Week, students and employees may be invited to:

• visit information booths at the north and downtown Oshawa campuses;
• speak with Student Engagement and Equity staff and Equity Advocates;
• explore educational resources;
• participate in activities and facilitated conversations; and
• learn about programs, supports and opportunities available throughout the year.

When Equity Awareness Week is active, current dates, locations and activities will be featured at the top of this page.

Continue learning throughout the year

Equity education extends beyond a single week. Explore Ontario Tech’s equity resources, workshops, campus spaces and support services throughout the year.

• Explore equity and inclusion resources
• View equity events and workshops
• Learn about inclusive campus spaces
• Find discrimination and harassment support

16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence

November 25 to December 10

The 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence is an annual global campaign that invites individuals and communities to learn, reflect and take action to end gender-based violence.

The campaign begins on November 25, the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women, and concludes on December 10, Human Rights Day. These dates connect gender-based violence with the broader advancement and protection of human rights. Learn about the global campaign

Why it matters

Gender-based violence can affect people of all genders and disproportionately impacts women, girls, 2SLGBTQIA+ people and members of communities facing intersecting forms of discrimination.

Preventing gender-based violence requires more than responding after harm occurs. It also means challenging harmful attitudes, recognizing the effects of power and inequality, supporting survivors and contributing to a culture of consent and respect.

16 Days at Ontario Tech

Each year, Ontario Tech recognizes the campaign by offering opportunities for the campus community to learn about gender-based violence prevention, explore resources and take meaningful action.

Activities may include:

• educational events and workshops;
• daily learning and reflection activities;
• information about consent and healthy relationships;
• resources for supporting someone who discloses violence;
• opportunities to demonstrate solidarity with survivors; and
• information about campus and community supports.

Current activities and ways to participate will be featured on this page during the campaign. Ontario Tech’s existing campaign information also invites community members to take small, daily actions that strengthen a culture of respect. Ontario Tech’s 16 Days information

Take action throughout the year

The work of preventing gender-based violence continues beyond these 16 days. Members of the Ontario Tech community can contribute by:

• learning about consent and healthy relationships;
• challenging harmful stereotypes and victim-blaming;
• intervening safely when witnessing concerning behaviour;
• responding supportively when someone discloses violence;
• learning about available support and reporting options; and
• promoting respect and inclusion in online and in-person spaces.

Support is available

If you or someone you know has experienced gender-based, sexual or domestic violence, confidential support and resources are available. You do not need to make a formal report to ask for help.

• Find sexual violence support
• Find domestic violence support
• Learn how to support someone who discloses
• Explore consent education and resources