SickKids raises a flag for Pride!

By Colleen O'Toole

Today, June 1, The Hospital for Sick Children (SickKids) held a flag raising event to kick off Toronto’s Pride Month.

“I was moved to see so many faces at this morning’s flag raising as there have been people working in support of LGBT inclusion in countless ways across the organization for many years,” says David Brownstone, Professional Practice Lead and Education Coordinator, Department of Social Work and Co-Chair of the SickKids LGBT Committee. “The Pride flag at SickKids is representative of people from across the organization coming together to raise this symbol of inclusion and affirmation proudly in front of the hospital.”

The Pride flag will fly in front of the hospital on University Avenue throughout the month to support and celebrate the LGBT community within the hospital and the community at large.

“As a whole, SickKids is devoted to child and family-centered care based on health equity and inclusion,” says Susan O’Dowd, VP of Human Resources and sponsor of Pride at SickKids. “Pride provides the opportunity to highlight our commitment and celebrate the diversity of the LGBT communities among our patients, families and staff, as well as with the city of Toronto. I wish everyone a Happy Pride Month.”

During the month of June, a number of Pride events will take place within the hospital for staff and families. The Terrace Café will have a Pride-themed menu, there will be an LGBT library book display and story time, a movie night, educational rounds, and activities for patients and families taking place in Marnie’s Lounge.

As well, SickKids will be participating in Family Pride, a weekend event on July 2 and 3. Plan to come by Church Street Junior Public School, 83 Alexander Street, for a weekend filled with family-friendly activities, games and food. While you’re there, drop by our booth and try out our Care for your Stuffie Clinic, where kids become the caregivers and teddy bears are the patients.

SickKids staff will also be participating in a number of official Pride events, including the Trans March and the 5k Pride and Remembrance run on the morning of July 2.