We often talk about LGBTQ (Lesbian, Gay, Bi-sexual, Transgendered, and Queer/Questioning) pride in June when Toronto has its world-famous Pride Parade. Community Living Toronto has a presence there, supporting people labeled with intellectual disabilities who identify as LGBTQ to join in the celebrations.

The Self-Advocates Council hopes that all the Community Living Toronto locations are honoring Pride for the rest of the year too!

In Community Living Toronto’s rights training, there are new videos that include Self-Advocate’s discussing the importance of rights. Richard Newland’s piece talks about LGBTQ rights and the importance of rights and inclusion.

Richard adds, “Everyone needs to learn to respect everyone’s rights and everyone’s wishes. We all have the right to be what we want to be and all rights come with responsibilities. Everyone wants to be happy. That’s all everyone wants, happiness, peace, love and joy”.  Richard decided that it would be great to have some rainbow flags up at Manson, and went straight to Kim Richard to request to put some up. Kim was excited to support Richard, and within 5 minutes, there were rainbow flags in several locations at the Manson site. The flag up on the wall is a reminder that it is a safe space for LGBTQ pride. If you would like to see rainbow flags up in your site, please contact the Self-Advocates Council, as Richard would be happy to come out with some flags for your place.

So in Richard’s words, from the Self-Advocates Council to you –

“ may you have inclusion, happiness, peace, love and joy this time of year, and throughout the year!”

By: Sue Hutton