Post written by Dr Obren Amiesimaka, Gender and Sexual Diversity Working Group Member at RRC Polytech.

What is National Coming Out Day (NCOD)?

In Canada, and in several other countries, National Coming Out Day (NCOD) is observed on October 11. NCOD is a day to celebrate coming out by 2SLGBTQIA+ folx and to honour all who have come out, encourage those in the process of coming out and support folx who are yet to come out. NCOD reminds society that 2SLGBTQIA+ folx have the right and freedom to live their full, true identities, openly and confidently, every day, every time and everywhere.  

The NCOD date is highly symbolic. Started by Robert Eichberg and Jean O’Leary, the inaugural NCOD in the US was held on October 11, 1988, which was one year after the Second National March on Washington for Lesbian and Gay Rights. About 750,000 people had marched in 1987 to advocate for people living with HIV/AIDS and for queer rights at the height of the AIDS epidemic.   

Why is National Coming Out Day (still) important?

 “Most people think they don’t know anyone gay or lesbian, and in fact, everybody does. It is imperative that we come out and let people know who we are and disabuse them of their fears and stereotypes.” This 1993 quote of Robert Eichberg, one of the NCOD founders, sums up the spirit of NCOD.

Over three decades later, despite significant improvements in 2SLGBTQIA+ rights and visibility, we still live in a heteronormative world where the default assumption is that everyone is cis gender and straight. Many people would still say that they do not know any queer folx personally. NCOD is important as it celebrates coming out to help show the world that being 2SLGBTQIA+ is normal and queer folx are in every family, school, workplace and country the world over. It is also essential for showing folx who are struggling with their sexuality that they are not alone, abnormal or unloved.

‘Coming out’ as 2SLGBTQIA+ is the process of socially acknowledging one’s sexual orientation and/or gender identity. It is about being your authentic self so you can live your best life – out loud, proudly and freely. As Nelson Mandela said: “There is no passion to be found playing small – in settling for a life that is less than the one you are capable of living.”

It starts with coming out to yourself; accepting your sexuality/gender identity is typically the first step, and then when you are ready, you may choose to share your truth with others. There’s no right or wrong way to come out; the perfect time to come out is whenever you are ready and safe. Coming out is not for others, it’s for you! However, sharing our experiences by coming out can help us feel connected, empowered, supported and inspired.

Coming out is often a recurrent process; we do not come out just the once. We come out to family who are not aware, new people we meet – at school, work, anywhere really, etc. How you come out and who you choose to tell, is your decision to make. It is always advisable to begin with people who you are most comfortable with – people who would support you and stand with you.

Yes, NCOD is the day set aside to celebrate coming out, but coming out day can be any day. So, do not feel compelled to come out on October 11. It is alright to be in the closet if you are not ready for any reason whatsoever – you are still coming to terms with being 2SLGBTQIA+, you live in an unsafe environment, you come from one of the 63 jurisdictions around the world that criminalize being 2SLGBTQIA+ etc. Being in the closet does not make you any less 2SLGBTQIA+; just know, a time will come when you can come out of that closet and walk in the sun!

You have a lovely 2SLGBTQIA+ community and many allies cheering you on now, and who will be there to welcome and support you whenever you choose to come out.

Trust and believe, it gets better!

At RRC Polytech, we believe that diversity is our strength. We are committed to creating inclusive learning and working environments where everyone feels safe, respected, and celebrated.

Today is an excellent opportunity to consider the ways each of us can make our learning and working spaces safe(r), more welcoming and more inclusive; and how we can support 2SLGBTQIA+ friends and colleagues.

Below are resources and further information on being allies for everyone – it doesn’t matter who you are, everyone deserves to be treated with kindness, dignity, and respect. If you have any questions or comments, please email us at diversity@rrc.ca.

Resources:

• A coming out story
• Allyship is leadership
• How to be an Ally to a Bi+ Person
• What Does Trans Allyship Look Like? 

In 2007, the federal government designated October as Canadian Islamic History Month, to celebrate, inform, educate, and share Muslim heritage with fellow Canadians. It is a time to acknowledge the significant contributions of Muslims to our country’s prosperity and diverse heritage. Contributions from Muslim communities span from science to business, academia to the arts and beyond. 

The Islamic History Month Canada (IHMC) theme for 2024 is Health & Healing, providing an opportunity to explore and celebrate the profound contributions of Muslim scholars and scientists to the field of medicine. Some of the most notable historical figures who have made contributions to medicine, include: 

• Ibn Sina (Avicenna), whose seminal work, The Canon of Medicine, is often regarded as one of the most influential medical texts ever written. This comprehensive encyclopedia of medicine was used as a reference in both the Islamic world and Europe for centuries. Ibn Sina’s detailed descriptions of diseases, his emphasis on clinical observation, and his introduction of various therapeutic methods transformed medical practice and education. 

• Al-Razi (Rhazes), whose contributions include Kitab al-Hawi and Kitab al-Mansuri, which were pioneering in their systematic approach to medical knowledge. Al-Razi is celebrated for his work on the diagnosis and treatment of smallpox and measles, and his pioneering use of clinical trials and patient observations helped establish a scientific method in medicine. 

• Ibn al-Nafis is another trailblazer whose discovery of pulmonary circulation marked a significant advancement in understanding the human cardiovascular system. His observations predated similar discoveries in the West by several centuries, showcasing his exceptional contributions to medical science. 

These scholars and scientists – among many others – demonstrate a holistic approach to well-being and numerous contributions to modern medicine as we know it today.  

Through celebrating achievements and promoting inclusion, Islamic History Months aims to create a broader sense of societal awareness and deeper sense of belonging for Muslim Canadians. 

Resources for Further Learning 

• A selection of videos, book and more, curated by Islamic History Month Canada  

• CCDI’s Canadian Islamic History Month Resource Guide 

• CCDI Webinar: Islamophobia 
  • Thursday, October 17, 12:00 to 1:00 p.m. 
    Join the Canadian Centre for Diversity and Inclusion (CCDI) and Mohamed Hashim, Executive Director of the Canadian Race Relations Foundation (CRRF), to discuss the evolution of Islamophobia in Canada, its impacts in communities and the workplace, and how individuals and organizations who fear further polarization and backlash can engage in this national discourse to address bias and hate against Muslims. 
    Visit CCDI’s website to learn more and register* 

• Islamic History Month Recommended Reading Guide from the Winnipeg Public Library 

• Free community event at WAG-Qaumajuq: 
  • Islamic Storytelling with Amna Burki – Sunday, October 13, 1:00 to 4:00 p.m. 

* Please note that RRC Polytech is a CCDI Employer Partner, which means all College employees are eligible to receive a free membership to access Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI) resources, including webinars. When registering for the webinar, select “Employer Partner” for the registration type.   

Rosh Hashanah, beginning before sundown on Wednesday, October 2, and ending after nightfall on Friday, October 4, is the first of a series of significant high holidays coming up in the Jewish calendar. Rosh Hashanah, which marks the start of the Jewish New Year, culminates with Yom Kippur, beginning before sundown on Friday, October 11, and ending after nightfall on Shabbat, October 12, and is the day of atonement. The period between Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur is considered very important as a time of reflection, repentance and renewal.

Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur are followed by Sukkot (Fall Solstice), Shemini Atzeret (marks the transition back to routine life), and Simchat Torah (celebrating the torah).

Whether the Jewish community observes the high holidays from a religious or cultural perspective, there are specific ways in which Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur are typically celebrated.

Rosh Hashanah

On “erev,” the evening of Rosh Hashanah, it’s typical to host large dinners with family and friends and eat sweet things like apples and honey and honey cake to symbolize a “sweet new year.” Challah (egg bread) which is the shape representing the cycle of life is also enjoyed. These dinner celebrations happen for two nights, and people who are observant typically go to synagogue over the two days for Rosh Hashanah services and to listen to the shofar, a ram’s horn that is blown like a trumpet.

Yom Kippur

On Yom Kippur, the Day of Atonement, those who are observant fast with no food or drink during that time and go to synagogue both the “erev” (evening of) Yom Kippur and the next day until the fast ends. At sundown after the fast ends, family and friends get together to break the fast.

The 10 days between Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur are considered very significant. Listening to the shofar and having community gatherings is typical during this time.

Coming up on Wednesday, October 9, there is a Tashlich Picnic organized by the Jewish Federation of Winnipeg. Visit the Jewish Federation of Winnipeg’s Community Calendar for more events happening during the high holidays.

Shana tova umetuka! (Have a happy and sweet new year!) 

October is a time to celebrate the talents and contributions of individuals with disabilities in the workforce. Since 2010, Disability Employment Awareness Month (DEAM) has highlighted the invaluable roles people with disabilities play in our communities. It’s an opportunity for employers to champion inclusive hiring practices and raise awareness about the importance of disability employment.

At RRC Polytech, we proudly embrace these values every day. Our commitment to equity, diversity, and inclusion means creating environments that are welcoming, supportive, and respectful of the dignity and independence of individuals of all abilities. Together, we can continue to remove barriers and foster communities where everyone has the opportunity and the access to thrive and succeed.

We invite you to join us in celebrating our shared commitment to accessibility and inclusion.

Light It Up! for NDEAM

At RRC Polytech, we are excited showcase our commitment to accessibility and inclusion by participating in the ‘Light It Up! For NDEAM’ (National Disability Employment Awareness Month) initiative. Through the month of October RRC Polytech will:

• Illuminate the Roblin Centre and the Paterson Global Foods Institute at EDC with purple and blue lights starting on October 17 and for the rest of the month.
• Project the “Light It Up! for NDEAM” graphic on the Elgin Plaza from October 14 to 18, 2024.
• Feature the “Light It Up! for NDEAM” graphic on the NDC outdoor digital screen at Notre Dame Ave. and King Edward St. from October 14 to 18, 2024.

Accessibility Quick Tips

Starting in October, RRC Polytech will be sharing an Accessibility Quick Tips to provide information about accessibility services and supports to help the College community incorporate accessible practices into our professional and personal lives. These tips will be shared through Staff News every Wednesday.

As we light up our campus and share quick tips, we also want to ensure that all members of our community are aware of and have access to the various resources that support our commitment to accessibility and inclusivity including:

Accessibility Staff Forum Page

We’ve made it easier for our staff to find accessibility resources by creating an Accessibility page on Staff Forum. Please take a moment to review and bookmark this page. It includes information and links to resources such as Supportive Employment, Student Accessibility Services, Accessibility Training, and Accessible Content Creation Resources.

Accessibility Plan

RRC Polytech is dedicated to removing barriers to education and employment while promoting access and participation in all areas. We believe in inclusion and strive to meet, and wherever possible, exceed the requirements of The Accessibility for Manitobans Act and The Human Rights Code. To support this commitment, RRC Polytech has developed an Accessibility Plan, which is renewed every two years.

Accessibility Training

Accessibility Training is one way we promote awareness and foster an accessible environment. All College employees must complete the Accessible Customer Service training and the Accessible Information and Communication Standard training. Employees can access and review the training in LEARN at any time.

Accessibility Parking

RRC Polytech provides accessible parking for staff. The Manitoba Parking Permit Program, regulated by Manitoba Infrastructure and Technology and administered by Manitoba Possible, allows individuals who have difficulty walking more than 50 meters to use specially designated parking spots across the province. Staff with certain temporary health conditions may be eligible for accessible parking on a temporary basis, subject to availability.

Student Accessibility Services

Student Accessibility Services plays a key role in arranging accommodations and supports for students with disabilities. Our Student Accessibility Services team works collaboratively with new, current and future students, faculty and support staff, to ensure all students can have an equal opportunity to achieve their educational goals.

Deaf and Hard of Hearing Services

Deaf and Hard of Hearing Services offers accommodations such as ASL-English interpreters and computerized note-takers to ensure equal access to education for all Deaf and Hard of Hearing students. The Deaf and Hard of Hearing Services team provides American Sign Language – English interpreters and computerized note takers for full-time or part-time programs, group work related to courses, college-related appointments (meeting with instructors, financial aid, counselling etc.), college workshops, events and more. Deaf and Hard of Hearing Services works together with students and their academic program to develop and facilitate individualized and appropriate accommodations.

To book an ASL-English Interpreter or transcriber submit this form.

Supportive Employment

Supportive Employment is a specialized area within Human Resource Services that focuses on managing disabilities. It emphasizes early intervention and proactive practices to ensure employees receive the support they need to continue working or return to productive employment as soon as possible. If you’d like to learn more about the Supportive Employment program, please speak with your manager or human resource consultant. Managers can also access the Supportive Employment Training Module on LEARN to learn how to support their team members.

Interview Accommodation

At RRC Polytech, we are committed to creating an inclusive environment where all employees and students feel valued, respected, and supported. We welcome applications from individuals with disabilities and strive for a workforce that reflects the diversity of our communities. Our recruitment process is designed to be barrier-free and equitable for everyone. You can learn more about the interview accommodation process and how to request accommodation on the Interview Accommodation Page.

Accessibility Tech Tips for Enhanced Learning

RRC Polytech’s Student Accessibility Services (SAS) collaborates with students, faculty, and support staff to ensure that all students have equal opportunities to achieve their educational goals. The SAS Assistive Technologist maintains a blog that promotes the use of technology to enhance academic life for all RRC Polytech students. Blog posts typically appear twice a month, highlighting tips, resources, and technology supports. You can visit the Tech Tips blog or subscribe to the Tech Tips newsletter to stay updated on the latest accessibility technology tips.

Safety First: Individual Emergency Plans

An Individual Emergency Plan (IEP) outlines procedures for the safe evacuation of individuals with disabilities during campus emergencies. The IEP includes exit routes, muster points, and specific steps to follow in various scenarios. For more information about the emergency response process, please visit the Safety, Health and Security Services SharePoint site, or contact safety@rrc.ca to request an individual emergency plan.

We Want Your Feedback!

At RRC Polytech, we believe in our shared responsibility to create an equitable, accessible, and inclusive environment. We value your suggestions on how to enhance accessibility services across our campuses. You can share your feedback by filling out this feedback form on our website or by emailing us at diversity@rrc.ca.

Additionally, you can help us better understand our college community and assess our current Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion initiatives, programs, and policies by completing the voluntary Employment Equity Self-Identification Questionnaire. Staff can access and update their self-identification information at any time. Students who wish to self-identify can contact the Student Services Centre at their campus.

From September 23 to 29, we celebrate International Week of the Deaf. This week shines a light on the importance of sign languages and advocates for the rights of Deaf individuals. The theme for 2024, “Sign Up for Sign Language Rights”, encourages global support for the legal recognition of national sign languages.

Here’s what’s happening at RRC Polytech and around the world:

Monday, Sept 23, 2024 – International Day of Sign Languages: Sign Up for Sign Language Rights

September 23 is International Day of Sign Languages. This day, recognized by the United Nations in 2017, celebrates the beauty of sign languages and promotes linguistic diversity. Learn more on the United Nations Official Website.

Start the week by joining our “Introduction to Basic American Sign Language (ASL) and Deaf Culture” session on September 23, 2024, from 1:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m. in the Selkirk Lounge, NDC, facilitated by Cheryle Broszeit and Kyra Zimmer. Space is limited to 20 participants, so we encourage you to register by clicking this link or emailing us at diversity@rrc.ca.

About the Presenters

Cheryle Broszeit is an instructor in the ASL-English Interpretation Program and is currently also teaching ASL classes for beginners through RRC Polytech’s Continuing Education Department. Cheryle has been teaching at the college for 24 years. Cheryle, who is Deaf, comes from a large Deaf family and an active member of the Winnipeg Deaf Community. Cheryle is also an avid photographer, and nature lover who loves to travel.

Kyra Zimmer is an instructor in the ASL-English Interpretation Program and is currently also teaching ASL classes for beginners through RRC Polytech’s Continuing Education Department. Kyra has been teaching at the college for 25 years. Kyra, who is Deaf, comes from a large Deaf family and an active member of the Winnipeg Deaf Community. In her free time Kyra can be found spending time with her family, reading and swimming.

Also, check out local and national organizations that support Deaf communities:

• DeafDots provides news in American Sign Language (ASL) and La langue des signes québécoise (LSQ) for Deaf and hard of hearing Canadians.
• Manitoba Cultural Society of the Deaf supports Deaf and hard of hearing individuals in Manitoba. Their vision is to fully integrate Deaf and non-deaf communities, empowering Deaf culture, arts, and language.
• Manitoba Deaf Sports Association promotes and supports Deaf and hard of hearing individuals through sports, aiming to strengthen and celebrate Deaf culture.
• The Deaf Resource Centre in Manitoba offers resources, programs, and advocacy to enhance the development of the Deaf community.
• The Manitoba Deaf Association supports and creates accessible educational and recreational activities to benefit the Deaf community.

Tuesday, Sept 24, 2024 – Inclusive Education

At RRC Polytech, we’re dedicated to providing equal access and opportunities for Deaf and Hard of Hearing students and employees. Explore our resources on our website:

• Accessibility at RRC Polytech Public Website
  • Deaf and Hard of Hearing Services
• Accessibility at RRC Polytech Internal Site (Staff Forum)
  • Supportive Employment for Staff
  • Accessibility Training and Learning Resources for Staff
  • Accessible Information and Communication Content Creation Resources

RRC Polytech’s Continuing Education department is offering American Sign Language (ASL) classes this Fall 2024. The 4 ASL classes currently being offered are:

• American Sign Language 1 every Tuesday evening from 5:00 to 8:00 p.m. The class will run from September 3 to December 10, 2024.
•  American Sign Language 2 every Tuesday evening from 5:00 to 8:00 p.m. The class will run from September 3 to December 10, 2024.
• American Sign Language 3 every Wednesday evening from 5:00 to 8:00 p.m. The class will run from September 4 to December 11, 2024.
• ASL Bridging 1 every Wednesday evening from 5:00 to 8:00 p.m. The class will run from September 4 to December 11, 2024.

For more information and to register, visit the program and course catalogue page.

Wednesday, Sept 25, 2024 – Sign Language Advocacy

Many countries still don’t officially recognize their national sign language. The World Federation of the Deaf (WFD) has introduced the Guidelines for Achieving Sign Language Rights to help change this. To read more about this advocacy, visit the World Federation of the Deaf website.

Thursday, Sept 26, 2024 – Building Resilient Deaf Communities

Building resilient Deaf Communities means enhancing their ability to prepare for and respond to emergencies. At RRC Polytech, Deaf and Hard of Hearing students and employees can request individual emergency response plans to stay safe during emergencies. For more details on how to request an Individual Emergency Plan, visit the Supportive Employment page on Staff Forum for employees, or the Student Accessibility Services page on the RRC website for students.

Friday, Sept 27, 2024 – Diversity in Deaf Communities

Explore Canada’s six sign languages, including three Indigenous sign languages, through the Canadian Language Museum’s exhibit, “Sign Language of Canada”. You can visit the virtual exhibit here.

Also, check out videos from the Canadian Language Museum to learn more about the diverse experiences within the Deaf community.

• American Sign Language instructor Art Gunter shares his personal experiences with ASL.
• Deaf Inuit share their stories.
• Isabelle Lepage talks about her experience with LSQ (Langue des signes québécoise).

Saturday, Sept 28 and Sunday Sept 29 – Deaf Cultural Celebrations and Investing In The Future of Deaf Communities

Celebrate Deaf culture and support the future of Deaf communities with these events:

• Deaflympics: A global event showcasing Deaf athletes and celebrating their achievements. The next Deaflympics will be in Tokyo in 2025.
• Clin d’Oeil Festival: An event in Europe featuring Deaf arts, including theatre, film, and visual art.
• Manitoba Cultural Society of the Deaf: A local organization that organizes events to promote Deaf culture throughout the year.

What began as a day to commemorate the establishment of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) is now a month-long celebration honouring the diversity and inclusion of people with disabilities, their identities, culture and contributions to society. The origins of Disability Pride Month go back almost 35 years, to when the ADA was passed in the United States in July 1990.

Along with celebration, Disability Pride Month aims to change the way people think about and define disability, with the goal of ending stigma and promoting that disability is a natural part of human diversity. The month of July – and beyond – is a time to build awareness of barriers that people with disabilities still face and continue advocating for change and equity.

Disability Pride Flag

Pictured above is the Disability Pride Flag, which was created in 2019 by Ann Magill, who has cerebral palsy. The flag and its elements represent many cross-sections and advocates for an inclusive society that ensures barrier-free accessibility for everyone.
Meaning behind the design elements:

• Black Field: Mourning for those who’ve suffered and died from ableist violence.
• Five Colours: Representing the variety of disabilities, needs and experiences, including Mental Illness, Neurodiversity, Invisible and Undiagnosed Disabilities, Physical Disabilities and Sensory Disabilities.
• Parallel Stripes: Forming solidarity within the disability community, despite differences.

The zigzags in the original 2019 design represented how disabled people must move around barriers and the creative ways in which they do so. This design element was re-worked in 2021 to reduce symptoms for individuals with visually triggered disabilities.

Virtual Disability Pride Parade

Easterseals is hosting a virtual Disability Pride Parade on Friday, July 26. You can participate on social media by using the hashtag #VirtualDisabilityParade and sharing graphic “signs” designed by Easterseals on your story or feed.

Accessibility at RRC Polytech

While the ADA is an American Act, it is an important piece of Human Rights legislation that has influenced other accessibility acts worldwide. In Manitoba, we have the Accessibility for Manitobans Act (AMA), which became law in December 2013. The goal of the act is to identify, remove, and prevent barriers to accessibility for all.

RRC Polytech is committed to developing a culture of diversity and inclusivity for the communities we serve. We believe in equal access to education and employment, and as one of the province’s leading post-secondary institutions, we are committed to fostering an environment that is welcoming, supportive and respectful of the dignity and independence of persons with disabilities.

Student Accessibility Services plays a key role in this commitment by arranging accommodations and supports for students with disabilities. Learn more about Student Accessibility Services at rrc.ca/accessibility. The Supportive Employment Program provides workplace accommodations to ensure employees with disabilities receive appropriate support to continue working or return to productive employment as soon as medically feasible. Read RRC Polytech’s Accessibility Plan, which addresses the Province of Manitoba’s Accessibility for Manitoban’s Act.

RRC Polytech’s Anti-Racism Action Committee – Social Justice Engagement Club has put together a Social Justice Bingo activity to build awareness on anti-racism and social justice this summer.  All members of the RRC Polytech community are invited to engage in the activities on this card to learn more about anti-racist and social-justice related topics and places in our province. This is an opportunity to reflect on power, privilege, bias, and how they influence our own experiences and perceptions, and how they affect individuals and groups in our communities.  

As you engage with these activities, reflect on your experiences, take pictures, and share with the RRC Polytech community. Once you have completed the activities on the card (at least five activities in a row), fill out this form by September 30, 2024 to be included in a draw to win a book prize. 

Names of all respondents who complete the activities and indicate their wish to participate in the book draw, will be entered for a draw on October 1, 2024. Two winners will be randomly picked from the draw and will be informed directly by email to claim their book prize.

Summer 2024 Social Justice Bingo

You can access other Anti-Racism Resources and learn more about the Anti-Racism Working Group in this Diversity Blog Post.

If you have any questions or need more information, please contact diversity@rrc.ca.

At RRC Polytech we recognize that diversity within our communities is one of our greatest strengths. We are committed to fostering working and learning environments that recognize and celebrate the diversity of our students and our staff. Together, we are working toward a place where we understand, embrace and uplift each other’s culture, and where all are welcomed for who they are, and for what we can build together.

RRC Polytech’s Anti-Racism Action Committee is a working group of motivated staff dedicated to addressing anti-racism through awareness, learning, events and initiatives that spark action and meaningful, positive change. The Committee has put together this resource list to help the College community in our journey towards anti-racism, by raising awareness and taking action.

As you read these resources, it would be helpful to refer to the Canadian Centre for Diversity & Inclusion’s (CCDI) Glossary of Terms, a reference tool for inclusion, diversity, equity and accessibility terminology. They define race as a social construct and anti-racism as an active effort to eliminate all forms of racism. Here are the definitions of some key terms referred to in these resources: 

• Anti-racism is a conscious choice – it’s not the absence of racism, but rather the decision to actively condemn racism and recognize the impact it has on the people around us. There is no room for racism in any of our spaces and everyone is held with the same expectation to respect all people.  
• Institutional racism is racism that is woven into policies and functions at the organizational and governmental levels – which affects people and opportunities broadly and to varying degrees. 
• Intersectionality is recognizing how the identities of an individual can affect their experiences in different ways, particularly in matters that are impacted by discrimination. 

RRC Polytech’s Anti-Racism Action Committee:

If you’d like to get involved in future efforts focused on advancing our shared commitments to Truth and Reconciliation; and, diversity, equity, inclusion and accessibility within the College consider joining RRC Polytech’s Anti-Racism Action Committee. Staff and students can participate in events hosted by this working group. If you would like to make a commitment to anti-racism and participate in activities hosted by the Anti-Racism Action Committee, please fill out this anti-racism commitment form.

If you have any questions or need more information, please contact diversity@rrc.ca.

June is Pride Month, in commemoration of the Stonewall Riots that took place in 1969. While Pride is a time to celebrate the contributions of the 2SLGTBQIA+ community worldwide, it’s equally an opportunity to recognize its history rooted in the gay rights movement, the progress that has been made towards greater rights, and to continue to advocate for equity and inclusion.

In 2022, RRC Polytech unveiled its new personalized Pride design, which is an evolution of the Progress Pride flag. The design, which is painted as walkways on the Notre Dame, Exchange District, and Portage La Prairie campuses, represents our shared commitment and dedication to fostering safer spaces on our campuses where all students, staff, and visitors feel that they belong.

Last June, RRC Polytech’s personalized Pride flag was raised alongside the Treaty One Nation and Red River Métis flags at the bus loop entrance of the Notre Dame Campus, as a symbol of unity, pride and inclusivity. The flags fly year-round as a daily reminder of our shared commitment to equity, diversity, and inclusion and enacting Truth and Reconciliation in everything we do.

Show Your Pride!

Throughout June and beyond, there are resources to support you in learning how to best be an ally, amplify 2SLGBTQIA+ voices, and take action in creating greater inclusion in your personal and professional life.

RED Forum 2024

On Friday, May 31, from 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., join members of the Gender and Sexual Diversity Working Group at their Experiential Expo booth, part of RED Forum 2024. Activities will include a Match the Pride to the Flag game, DIY button making, and Pride flag giveaways. Plus test your knowledge with a quiz for a chance to win a prize!

Drop by to participate; registration is not required.

The Forecast is Calling for Rainbows: Winnipeg Pride Parade and Rally

For over a decade RRC Polytech has brought together students, staff and their friends/family members to walk alongside the College’s float in the Winnipeg Pride Parade and Rally.

On Sunday, June 2, everyone in the RRC Polytech community is invited and encouraged to bring friends, family, and pets downtown for a few hours to celebrate inclusivity and feel the love, as we show our support for the 2SLGBTQIA+ community.

Details are still be finalized and will be shared closer to the date, but a hard-working crew is once again preparing our elaborate float, tailgating festivities are being planned for prior to the event, and each registered participant will receive a complimentary RRC Polytech Pride themed t-shirt.

Canadian Pride Historical Society Talk

RRC Polytech is honoured once again to welcome Jonathan Niemczak to speak with the campus community as part of our Pride Month celebrations.

Jonathan is the Chair and CEO of the Canadian Pride Historical Society (CPHS), Past President of Pride Winnipeg, and a gender, sexuality, and relationship (GSRD) advocate with over fifteen years of community leadership experience.

• Date: Tuesday, June 18, 2024
• Time: 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.
• Location: Roundhouse Auditorium (Second Floor), Manitou a bi Bii daziigae, Exchange District Campus

Registration to come.

Resources for Beyond Pride Month

Our support for and allyship with the 2SLGBTQIA+ community doesn’t stop after Pride Month. Visit the Equity, Diversity and Inclusion on Campus Resources page for an evolving list of self-directed learning, including the Library’s Gender and Sexual Diversity Guide, to help foster understanding, allyship, and advocacy all year round.

Observed annually on the third Thursday of May, Global Accessibility Awareness Day (GAAD) is a time for thinking about and advocating for digital access/inclusion and people with accessibility needs or disabilities.

What is digital accessibility?

Digital accessibility refers to the ability of people with disabilities or impairments to independently interact with digital content, for example, websites and mobile applications. The goal is creating a barrier-free experience through embedding accessibility as a core requirement for all technologies and digital products.

Visit the GAAD website to learn more about digital accessibility.

Manitoba Access Awareness Week

Later this month – May 26 to June 1 – marks Manitoba Access Awareness Week. To recognize this week, the Manitoba Accessibility Office will be hosting four informational webinars, including the kick-off to Manitoba Access Awareness Week (MAAW) featuring an overview of the requirements under the Accessible Information and Communication Standard Regulation.

Register for the kick-off to MAAW webinar.

Further resources:

• Learn more about the Accessibility Act for Manitobans and its five standards for making real, measurable and effective changes to accessibility.
  
• Accessibility at RRC Polytech, including the Accessibility Plan.
  
• Student Accessibility Services at RRC Polytech.