June is officially Pride Month and Sinai Health is celebrating in style. More than 100 people across Sinai Health joined together as we raised the pride flag in recognition to our commitment to LGBTQI2S patients, people and communities. “We are committed to expressing our organizational values of Service, Humanity, Inclusivity and Discovery. And celebrating PRIDE acknowledges our Humanity and Inclusivity at its best. Being able to celebrate our unique identities in meaningful ways contributes to everyone’s wellness and ability to flourish,” says Susan Brown, Executive Vice-President, People & Culture and Chief Human Resources Officer. “Our commitment, exemplified in our People Plan, is to ensure Sinai Health is a respectful, inclusive place where all of our people feel valued and energized coming to work.”
While the cool, wet spring weather cooperated to allow revelers to raise the flag at Bridgepoint, the exciting Phase 3A work being done to expand our Emergency Centre did challenge access to the flagpole at Mount Sinai Hospital. A ceremonial flag raising did not dampen the spirit or meaning, and with careful maneuvering, our security team raised the flag high outside so everyone passing by University Avenue could share in our pride. This year, black and brown stripes have been added to our flag. These stripes, first seen on the Pride Flag in Philadelphia, demonstrate our recognition of intersectionality and commitment to inclusion and ensuring that historically excluded voices and experiences – those of Indigenous Peoples, Black people and people of colour – are heard and valued. In addition to raising the flag, Sinai Health Foundation is pleased to be organizing a group to march in this year’s Pride Parade. As an inclusive and progressive organization, this is a great way to live our values in the community. Please click here to register to march.