Pride Month is a time to recognize and celebrate the incredible diversity of Two-Spirit, lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, intersex, asexual and additional sexual orientations and gender identities across our campuses and beyond.
This June also marks National Indigenous History Month, a reminder of the many intersectional identities within our community and the importance of ensuring that everyone feels seen, respected and supported. We acknowledge and celebrate Two-Spirit and IndigiQueer individuals whose experiences and perspectives are essential to the strength and vibrancy of our campuses.
Across Canada and around the world, many members of 2SLGBTQIA+ communities continue facing discrimination, exclusion and threats to their safety and well-being. At the same time, we see powerful examples of advocacy, solidarity and community leadership that remind us why Pride continues to matter.
At Waterloo, we know that creating a truly inclusive university requires working together with purpose and accountability. It means listening carefully, learning continuously and thinking differently to remove barriers so that every member of our community can thrive.
We opened Pride Month on June 1 with the re-raising of the Intersex-and Two-Spirit Inclusive Pride Flag at H Lot, joined by students, staff, faculty and community members. It was a meaningful start to the month and a reflection of our shared commitment to building a more inclusive campus for Two-Spirit, trans, non-binary, queer and gender non-conforming members of our community.
I am also pleased to share an update on the Trans and Non-Binary Equity Strategy. developed through consultations with 2SLGBTQIA+ students, staff and faculty. It was endorsed by the University in June 2025.
As of June 2026, twenty-nine projects are underway and the Strategy is on track to complete approximately 15 per cent of its initiatives in its first year, with early progress led by Campus Wellness, Information Systems and Technology, the Inclusive Communications Team and the Office of Equity, Diversity, Inclusion and Anti-Racism (EDI-R).
As part of this progress, we are launching a new resource hub to help students, staff and faculty explore available supports, services and programs. They are a vital resource for anyone looking for guidance on pronoun usage and inclusive practices or simply want to better understand what is available, the hub offers meaningful tools to support learning and connection. Updates and access can be found on the
Specifically, I would like to thank The Office of EDI-R and a special thank you to GLOW for your leadership and partnership in advancing this work. Beyond Pride Month, the work of these offices takes place every single day of the year.
I encourage anyone looking for support, guidance and information, to connect with the Glow Centre for Sexual and Gender Diversity, located in SLC 3103. Through peer support, advocacy, community-building and student leadership opportunities, Glow plays a vital role in fostering a sense of belonging for many members of our campus community.
I also want to thank the QueerTrans Alliance, EngiQueers, QTPOC KW and the many faculty, staff and community partners whose ongoing commitment continues to move Waterloo forward.
As this is my final Pride Month message as President and Vice-Chancellor, I want to note that it has been a privilege to serve this community. I have witnessed the care, courage and determination of so many people committed to making Waterloo a place where everyone belongs.
There is still more work to do, and I know it will continue to be met with the same dedication and purpose that has defined so much of what we have built together.
Wishing you a joyful, meaningful and safe Pride Month.
