The following message contains content related to gender-based violence, and may cause strong emotions to arise, especially for those with lived experience. It is recommended that you read the message when you feel safe and supported.

In Canada, we recognize the National Day of Remembrance and Action on Violence Against Women on December 6, to commemorate the 14 women at Polytechnique Montréal whose lives were taken due to violent misogyny. It is a time to honour these women’s lives and commemorate all the women and gender-diverse folks that we have lost due to gender-based violence.

RRC Polytech is hosting a vigil on Friday, December 5, 2025. All staff and students are invited to join the College community as we foster hope and healing for a future free from gender-based violence.

December 6 Vigil

• Date and Time: Friday, December 5, 2025, from 10:00 to 11:00 a.m.
• Location: Roundhouse Auditorium (second floor), Manitou a bi Bii daziigae, Exchange District Campus.
  • The vigil will also be livestreamed. Register for the link to join.
• Speakers and Guests:
  • The Honorable Renée Cable, Minister of Advanced Education and Training, Government of Manitoba
  • The Honorable Nahanni Fontaine, Minister of Families, Government of Manitoba
  • Fred Meier, President and CEO, RRC Polytech
  • Jayne Geisel, Associate Dean, Construction, RRC Polytech
  • Japsharan Kaur, Vice President, Academic, RRC Polytech Students’ Association

ASL-English interpretation will be provided. At RRC Polytech, we strive to host inclusive events. If you require accommodation, please email events@rrc.ca.

Please note that registration is not required for the in-person vigil. Coffee and tea will be provided.

Additional Ways to Recognize December 6:

• Wear a white ribbon
• Observe a moment of silence at 11:00 a.m.
• Learn more about gender-based violence

About White Ribbons

Wearing a white ribbon symbolizes your pledge to never commit, condone or remain silent about violence against women and girls. White ribbons also remind us to pause, to commemorate all women who have been killed or affected by violence, and to reflect on what can be done to help end violence.

RRC Polytech has purchased ribbons for staff and students to wear from White Ribbon. The organization was founded two years after the Massacre in Montreal when a group of men came together to look for safe ways to support women through education and allyship. This Canadian organization seeks to prevent gender-based violence through changing behaviors, attitudes, and values of man and boys throughout Canada and the world. Their values are Gender Justice, teaching men and boys how to respect women and girls, Anti-Oppression, Collaboration, Innovation, Integrity, and Compassion.

Where to Pick-up a White Ribbon

White ribbons are available at the following on-campus locations:

• Exchange District Campus
  • Campus Store – Roblin Centre (Main floor of Building P)
  • Security Services – Roblin Centre (Main floor of Building P)
  • Security Services – Manitou a bi Bii daziigae (Main floor)
  • Security Services – Paterson GlobalFoods Institute, Room 100
  • RRC Polytech Students’ Association Office – P110
     
• Notre Dame Campus
  • Campus Store – Mall Level (just off the bus loop)
  • Security Services – C115
  • RRC Polytech Students’ Association Office – CM-20 (Mall Level, C Building)

Ribbons are also available at Regional Campus offices.

Happy International Day of Persons with Disabilities!

December 3 is International Day of Persons with Disabilities (IDPD) – a global day to celebrate the unique ways people experience and contribute to our world.

This year’s theme, “Fostering disability-inclusive societies for advancing social progress,” reminds us that building a fair, inclusive, and equitable society benefits everyone.

IDPD is a time to:

• Celebrate the contributions of people with disabilities
• Understand the barriers they face
• Commit to reviewing our progress and continue building accessible communities and workplaces.

Accessibility is not just about ramps or technology – it’s about removing barriers so everyone can participate fully and thrive.

What Does Disability Mean?

The term persons with disabilities includes people with long-term physical, mental, intellectual, or sensory impairments. These conditions, combined with barriers in the environment or attitudes, can limit full participation in society.

Disability is not about what a person can or cannot do – it’s about the mismatch between a person and their surroundings. When we remove barriers, we create fairness and opportunity for everyone.

Celebrating Neurodiversity

IDPD is also a time to celebrate one important part of human diversity – the many ways our brains work.

Neurodiversity means that everyone’s brain works differently, and these differences are valuable. There is no single “right” or “normal” way to think, learn, or experience the world.

This includes:

• Neurotypical people: whose brains process information in ways most common in society.
• Neurodivergent people: whose brains work differently. This includes people with Autism, ADHD, Dyslexia, Tourette’s, and other conditions.

It’s important to remember that neurodiversity is a broad spectrum, and every person’s experience is unique. These differences are not deficits – they are part of what makes us human. To learn more, visit this helpful article from the Cleveland Clinic: Neurodivergent.  

Why Different Thinking Makes Stronger Teams

Imagine a team solving a complex problem. If everyone thinks the same way, they miss out on new ideas.

 Neurodiverse teams bring a wide range of perspectives and skills:

• Some people see patterns and details others miss
• Others connect ideas in creative ways
• Some focus deeply on complex tasks
• Others think visually and see the big picture

No single thinking style is “better.” Together, these differences make teams stronger, more creative, and better at innovating.

Why This Matters on IDPD

If these differences are strengths, why highlight them on IDPD?  The answer is simple: the challenge often isn’t the person – it’s the environment.

For example:

• A noisy office can make it hard to focus
• A meeting with only spoken instructions can be difficult for someone who processes information visually

IDPD is a call to remove these barriers. It reminds us that making our world more accessible, whether that means a physical ramp, a quiet workspace, or clear written instructions, is how we create fairness.

An accommodation isn’t a special favor. It’s about creating spaces where everyone can thrive, participate fully and contribute their unique strengths.

Building an Inclusive RRC Polytech

At RRC Polytech, we strive to create a place where all abilities and every way of thinking are valued. By embracing accessibility and neurodiversity, we make our college stronger and more innovative, and more welcoming for everyone.

We’ve made progress with accessible technologies, infrastructure, and accommodations – but our work continues. Today, we reaffirm our commitment to identifying and removing barriers and ensuring that everyone at the College has equitable opportunities to succeed.

This IDPD, let’s learn more, challenge assumptions, and build a community where every person can thrive.

AI Usage Acknowledgement

This post was jointly written by Gemini and Jay Scott, Neurodiversity Working Group Member at RRC Polytech.

Learn, Get Involved, and Stay Engaged

Wednesday, December 3

Immersive Storytelling & Disability Inclusion with Adam Nepon, Hosted by Abigail Adedokun
Location: E155, Manitou a bi Bii daziigae, EDC | 10:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m.

Join Adam for an immersive storytelling experience exploring identity, belonging, non-linear learning and career journeys, psychological safety, and workplace culture – through humour, honesty, and real-life experiences.

About the Presenter

Adam Nepon is a storyteller, educator, and neurodivergent leader whose lived experience shapes his work in inclusion, accessibility, and culture-building. Born in Winnipeg and identifying as both Ashkenazi Jewish and Red River Métis, Adam grew up navigating the world without knowing he had a disability. The survival strategies he developed along the way—reading environments, adapting quickly, and finding his own learning path—became the foundation of his leadership and teaching style.

Today, Adam serves as Manager of Business Development – Health Transformation at RRC Polytech. He is known for creating psychologically safe spaces where humour, honesty, and immersive storytelling help people explore identity, belonging, and the power of non-linear educational and career journeys. His work invites audiences to view difference as strength and to recognize the stories that shape how we learn, lead, and connect.

Register for Immersive Storytelling & Disability Inclusion with Adam Nepon here

Film Screening – These Four Walls
Location: GM41 – Black Lecture Theatre, NDC | 1:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m.

In honour of International Day of Persons with Disabilities, People First of Manitoba and the Disability and Community Support Program invite members of the college community to a viewing of These Four Walls. 

These Four Walls invites you on an emotional journey deep into the heart of the disability movement in Manitoba, Canada. At its core is the remarkable story of David Weremy and his class action lawsuit against the Manitoba Development Centre (MDC), revealing shocking allegations of widespread abuse and neglect under government care.

The film traces the paths of survivors from the institution, alongside dedicated community advocates and families, as they confront the painful scars of abuse concealed behind its walls. Through intimate interviews and compelling storytelling, we witness the resilience and determination of survivors and their communities.

An inspiring tale of hope, community, and the power of breaking free from confinement, the film champions the boundless possibilities that await beyond ‘these four walls.’ Prepare to be moved, inspired, and forever changed by this powerful exploration of the human spirit.

More About the Film

This documentary is an important and historical record of the voices of survivors of institutionalization. It will be of interest to many self-advocates, educators, advocacy and disability groups, human rights activists, community groups and more.

Over the past year, These Four Walls has been in the film festival circuit. It was shown in 19 different film festivals in Canada. It has received the Best Manitoba Director award at the Gimli International Film Festival (GIFF), an Official Selection at the Regina International Film Festival and Awards, an Honorable Mention at the Montreal International Film Festival, and a Nominee at the Saskatchewan International Film Festival.

Register for Film Screening here

Thursday, December 4

Immersive Stories with Dani Puddicombe, Hosted by Desirae Mercer
Location: Prairie Lights, NDC | 1:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m.

Be part of an immersive storytelling experience with Dani as she shares her journey through depression, anxiety, burnout, and returning to full-time work.

About the Presenter

Dani began her Red River College Polytechnic career in April 2005 (20 years ago!) in the Research Partnerships & Innovation (RPI) office after graduating from the Red River College Business Administration program. She is currently the Research Operations Manager, Finance for the Office of Applied Research Services (OARS) with RPI and believes her role is one that is to bring clarity and efficiency to research operations so that strategy, purpose and people align in pursuit of research excellence. She has a diploma in Business and Administrative Studies; a certificate in Dental Assisting; and a diploma in Office Skills & Technology.

Register for Immersive Stories with Dani Puddicombe here

Additional Resources

• RRC Polytech
  • Accessibility at RRC Polytech
  • Accessibility Services for Employees: Visit the Accessibility page on Staff Forum for more information on services and support available to employees.
  • Student Accessibility Services: To learn more about the services and support available to students, visit the Student Accessibility Services page.
  • Deaf and Hard of Hearing Services: To learn more about these services, visit the Deaf and Hard of Hearing page.
  • Neurodiversity Working Group: Visit the Neurodiversity Working Group blog post and Staff Forum page to learn more about the group’s mission, goals and how to get involved.
  • Accessibility Garden: Community of Practice: Join RRC Polytech members as they exchange accessibility practices and conversation. To learn more, visit the Community of Practice: Accessibility Garden page on Staff Forum.
• External Resources
  • Canadian Centre for Diversity and Inclusion (CCDI) – International Day of Persons with Disabilities – Commemoration Guide and CCDI Webinar: Creating neuroinclusive and accessible workplaces
  • The Manitoba Accessibility Office’s Resources and Training
  • Province of Manitoba – IDPD Proclamation

The following message contains content related to gender-based violence, and may cause strong emotions to arise, especially for those with lived experience. It is recommended that you read the message when you feel safe and supported. Resources are available to support those in need, including REES (Respect Educate Empower Survivors), a community for survivors, 24-7 Crisis Line, and additional support services for those affected by gender-based violence. If you are in an emergency situation, please call 9-1-1.

16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence (GBV) is an annual global campaign aimed at raising awareness and advocating for the elimination of GBV. The #16Days begin on November 25, the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women, include the National Day of Remembrance and Action on Violence Against Women on December 6, and end on December 10, International Human Rights Day. These days of significance highlight the link between violence against women and girls and the violation of human rights.

1 in 3 women will experience violence in their lifetime. This number increases during humanitarian emergencies or when women lack access to essential rights such as education and healthcare. While violence affects women worldwide, certain groups such as women with disabilities, adolescent girls, and older women often face greater barriers in having their voices heard or accessing critical support.

This year, the United Nations’ theme for #16Days is UNiTE to End Digital Violence against All Women and Girls. Online and digital spaces should empower women and girls. Yet every day, for millions of women and girls the digital world has become a minefield of harassment, abuse, and control. 

From 25 November to 10 December join the UNiTE campaign and take action to stop digital abuse against women and girls.

Ways to get involved

Join the campaign

• Kick-off the 16 Days by wearing purple on November 25, for the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women

• Honour the victims of the Polytechnique Montréal tragedy by wearing a white ribbon on December 6. Visit the web page of the National Day for other ideas.
  • RRC Polytech is hosting a vigil at the Roundhouse Auditorium, Manitou a bi Bii daziigae, Exchange District campus on Friday, December 5 from 10:00 – 11:00 a.m. Please stay tuned for more details.

• Read the full text or simplified version of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights.

Learn more

• Get the stats. Facts, stats and the impact of Women and Gender Equality Canada: Gender-based violence

• Learn about 16 ways you can help to end GBV

• Watch a movie, video or documentary related to GBV such as those available on the National Film Board website (various languages; viewer discretion is advised for some films)

Take action

Adopt these simple but powerful actions all year long:

• Listen: be open to learning from the experiences of others

• Believe: support survivors and those affected by violence. It is very important that you say the words “I believe you” and “This is not your fault”

• Educate (yourself and others): learn the facts about GBV, know what your workplace policies say about violence and harassment, take a course, participate in an event

• Speak out: add your voice to call out violence

• Intervene: find a safe way to help when you see acts of GBV. Name what you see. Express your concern and ask how you can help. Intervening can also mean providing support and resources

• Act: give your time or donate to organizations working to end GBV

December 1 is World AIDS Day – a time to come together, raise awareness about HIV/AIDS, and show support for people living with HIV. It’s also a day to reflect on progress and renew our commitment to prevention, treatment, and care for everyone.

This year’s theme is “Overcoming disruption, transforming the AIDS response.” It’s a powerful reminder and a call to action that ending AIDS by 2030 will require strong leadership, global cooperation, and approaches that uphold human rights.

On this day, while we celebrate progress – like better access to treatment and prevention – many challenges remain. AIDS is not over. Disruptions to life-saving services and increased risks for some communities show why this work matters. But there is hope. Around the world, people are stepping up with resilience and innovation to keep the HIV response moving forward.

Understanding HIV and AIDS

• Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) weakens the immune system by attacking white blood cells. This makes it easier for the body to get sick from infections, tuberculosis, and certain cancers.
• HIV is NOT spread by hugging, kissing, shaking hands, or sharing food.
  It spreads through body fluids: blood, breast milk, semen, and vaginal fluids. It can also pass from mother to child during pregnancy or birth.
• Treatment matters. HIV can be managed with antiretroviral therapy (ART). Without treatment, HIV can progress to acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS), which is the most advanced stage of infection.

Prevention Starts with Awareness

Knowing how HIV spreads and how to protect yourself is important. Here are some ways to reduce your risk:

• Use condoms during sex.
• Do not share needles or syringes; use harm reduction services if needed.
• Consider Pre-exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP) if you are at higher risk of getting HIV. PrEP is an antiretroviral medication that helps prevent HIV.
• Get tested regularly for HIV and other sexually transmitted infections (STIs). Testing is simple and accessible – even at home.

If you test positive for HIV:

You are not alone. HIV is treatable. ART helps your immune system stay strong and allows you to live a healthy life. People who take ART and have no detectable virus cannot pass HIV to their sexual partners. Support is available, and we are here to help.

How You Can Get Involved

Join us in raising awareness and learning more:

World AIDS Day Information Booth

Hosted by the Gender and Sexual Diversity Group

• NDC Library Hallway | December 1, 2025 | 11:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.
• Activities include:
  • Free HIV testing kits
  • Informational pamphlets and videos
  • World AIDS Day Quiz! Test your knowledge, learn something new, and enter for a chance to win a prize! The quiz closes on December 5, 2025 at 4:00 p.m.
  • Red ribbons

RRC Polytech Health Services

Health Services offers year-round support for staff and students:

• Consultations and referrals
• Sexual health education
• Registered nurses for care
• STI and HIV information
• Help connecting to community resources

Take action today: Learn the facts, get tested, and support those living with HIV.

Together, as a college community, we can make a difference and help end AIDS.

Post written by Syd Shukla-Bergen, Gender and Sexual Diversity Working Group Member at RRC Polytech

November 20^th, 2025, is the Transgender Day of Remembrance; a day dedicated to remembering those who have lost their lives due to transphobia. The purpose of the day is to raise awareness of the violence, discrimination, and prejudice faced by the transgender community while providing a safe space for transgender voices to be heard and remembered. This global day of remembrance was created in 1999 to memorialize Rita Hester, Chanelle Pickett, and Monique Thomas, transgender women murdered between 1995 and 1998. Gwendolyn Ann Smith, the founder of the Transgender Day of Remembrance, was appalled by how quickly the media and society moved on after the deaths of these women, spurring on her creation of the candlelight vigils commemorating the lives lost. 

Gender based violent crime is not a thing of the past, it is seen all throughout Canada to this day. 59% of transgender and gender-diverse people have or will experience violent victimization in comparison to the cisgendered 37% violent victimization rate (Gender Based Violence Statistics Canada 2025). Approximately 75,000 people are transgender or gender diverse in Canada, meaning 44,250 of these individuals have experienced some form of violence directed towards them based on their gender identity. Beyond violent crime, transgender people may experience discrimination in several areas (Federal 2SLGBTQI+ Action Plan 2022):

• Employment and Housing
  • Discrimination, exclusion, and housing insecurity based on prejudice.
• Healthcare
  • Limited access to gender-affirming care, discrimination, inadequate training causing harm.
• Legal and Institutional Barriers
  • Chosen name denial and mis-gendering.
• Social and Mental Health
  • Social isolation, stigma, stress, intersectionality.

At RRC Polytech, we are committed to address systemic barriers by reviewing our program structures, removing barriers for marginalized communities, and meeting or exceeding industry standards in Equity, Diversity, Inclusion, and Accessibility (EDIA) activities through collaboration, reconciliation, and action (RRC Polytech EDIA Institutional Plan). We encourage every individual to participate in our Transgender Day of Remembrance activities, to support your friends and colleagues who are members of the community, and to advocate for inclusive learning and workspaces.

If you or someone you know is in crisis, please reach out to RRC Polytech Counselling Services or any of these resources:

• The Klinic Crisis Line at (204)-768-8686
• Trans Lifeline at (877)-330-6366
• Suicide Crisis Helpline at 9-8-8

Transgender Day of Remembrance Vigil

Join the RRC Polytech community in remembrance by participating in a candlelight vigil, signing candles that will be hung in The Spectrum space, and enjoying donuts decorated with the Transgender flag. Events will take place at:

• NDC – Wednesday, November 19th, 2025, 12:00 pm- 12:45pm (The Spectrum)
• EDC – Thursday, November 20th, 2025, 12:00 pm- 12:45pm (The Library)

Tuesday is Remembrance Day, our annual reminder to reflect and honour those who have served and continue to serve our country during times of war, conflict and peace.

All campuses will be closed on Tuesday, November 11 and all campus flags will be lowered to half-mast in observance of this day.

Tomorrow is Indigenous Veteran’s Day, which specifically recognizes the contributions and sacrifices of Indigenous soldiers. On November 8, Indigenous peoples are celebrated and acknowledged at all levels for their contributions to Canada’s military history, and hundreds of ceremonies and vigils are held across the country to honor and reflect on the Indigenous experience in the Canadian military.

To recognize, acknowledge, respect and remember what Indigenous veterans did for our country, the School of Indigenous Education at RRC Polytech is gifting staff & students commemorative pins. 

On Indigenous Veteran’s Day and Remembrance Day, we remember the lives lost and the enduring impacts of war, while reflecting on the importance of peace.

Lest we forget.

Diwali, also known as the Festival of Lights, is a major festival celebrated worldwide and the biggest holiday season of the year for the South Asian community. The celebration falls in October or November, based on the Hindu lunar calendar. This year, Diwali begins on October 20. 

The celebration of Diwali symbolizes the triumph of light over darkness, good over evil, and knowledge over ignorance. It holds different meanings within various regions and religions, and traditions vary also by region, family and personal customs. Some typical traditions include lighting oil lamps (diyas), decorating homes, setting off fireworks, sharing sweets, and spending time with loved ones. 

The RRC Polytech Students’ Association (RRCSA) is hosting a Diwali celebration at the Notre Dame Campus on October 17 at 8:00 p.m. For more information and to purchase tickets, please click here. 

Wishing those who celebrate a Diwali filled with joy, prosperity, and light! 

October 15 is International Pronouns Day. This day is about the importance of using people’s pronouns correctly. A small act like this can help everyone feel welcome and included.

At RRC Polytech, we are dedicated to creating a respectful and welcoming environment that is diverse, inclusive, and equitable for all students and staff. We encourage everyone to help build a learning and working culture where fair treatment is upheld, and each person can reach their full potential.

Using a person’s chosen name and pronouns is an important way to affirm their identity and show respect. We all play a role in making sure individuals feel safe to share their pronouns in our classrooms and workplaces. By fostering accountability and care, we can ensure that correct pronouns are used and respected.

Learn more about pronouns:

• What are personal pronouns and why do they matter?
• How do I use personal pronouns?
• What if someone makes a mistake and mispronounces someone else’s pronouns?
• How do I share my personal pronouns?
• How do I ask someone their pronouns?
• How do I use gender inclusive language?
• What other resources can help me?

How to start using pronouns:

• Ask and respect pronouns. If you’re not sure, it’s okay to politely ask.
• Share your own pronouns. In introductions, email signatures, or online profiles.

How to display your pronouns in your RRC Polytech online profile:

Employees

1. Log in to HUB and select ‘HR Unlimited’
2. Select ‘My Portal’
3. Within ‘My Portal,’ select the ‘Personal’ tab, and then select ‘Personal Information’
4. Within the ‘Personal Information’ section, locate the ‘Pronouns’ section, and select ‘Add or Modify Pronouns’
5. A pop-up box will appear, and you can select your pronouns from the drop-down menu.
6. Once you have selected your pronouns, select the ‘OK’ button. You will receive a notification to confirm ‘The record has been saved’ at the top left of the screen.

Students

1. Log in to HUB and select ‘Payments and Profile’
2. Select under the ‘User Options’ in the side left sidebar select ‘User Profile’
3. Select ‘Edit Personal Identity’
4. Within the ‘Identity Details’ section, locate the ‘Preferred Pronouns’ section
5. A pop-up box will appear, and you can select your pronouns from the drop-down menu.
6. Once you have selected your pronouns, select the ‘Save’ button. You will receive a notification to confirm ‘Successfully updated user profile’ at the top right of the screen.
7. For more information contact studentservices@rrc.ca.

Post compiled by Dr Obren Amiesimaka, Gender and Sexual Diversity Working Group Member at RRC Polytech. Thanks to our contributors for sharing their stories: Dr. Christine Watson, Justine Hawley and Logan Brunette.

Observed on October 11 annually, National Coming Out Day (NCOD) is a day to celebrate coming out by 2SLGBTQIA+ folx. NCOD is a time 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 highlights to society that 2SLGBTQIA+ folx have the right and freedom to live their full, true identities, openly and confidently, every day, every time and everywhere.

This year, we hear three voices speaking about the significance of coming out.

What does coming out mean to you?

1. When I fell in love with my wife, I didn’t expect to fall in love with a woman in my 40s after a decade-long marriage to a man. So, my “coming out” was very different than her experience, which had happened in her 20s. For me, coming out meant a declaration of my love for her, not necessarily a declaration of an identity or category or label. In fact, I still struggle today with what “label” to wear (including on HR self-declaration forms). What I did experience was that many of my wife’s friends were suspicious of our relationship because I didn’t go through a significant emotional or psychological trauma sometimes associated with a “coming out” experience. As I experienced it, coming out just meant expressing my love for a beautiful woman. That expression felt very natural and clear. There was no confusion and there was no doubt. It just WAS. 
2. Coming out is nerve-wracking no matter who you are or what your lived experiences might be. Personally, I believe coming out to be one of the first steps of self-acceptance. Telling someone who you are takes a lot of guts and showing that kind of vulnerability makes a person very brave.
3. To me, coming out means showing strength through vulnerability and living freely through authenticity. Coming out can sometimes feel like a bit of an overshare or a bit awkward, especially for the first time ever, the first time you are disclosing that to someone who doesn’t know you yet, or if you are a private person in general. It’s also a privilege for many.

How has your life changed since coming out?

1. I was fortunate that my family, colleagues and friends were very supportive of my relationship with my wife. I realize that’s not the same experience that others have (case in point — my wife had to leave a job she loved because of our relationship). My children (who were 5 and 7 at the time) were very accepting, and they have never hidden the fact that they had two moms or hesitated to bring friends over.
   On the other hand, I was completely unaware of how travel – the places that were safe to go, the kinds of physical contact we could have – was impacted until I was in a same-sex relationship. It was the first time I felt like I could not express my full authentic self, and it felt very oppressive. Since coming out, I am much more aware of 2SLGBGTIA+ representation in media, films, literature, etc. and I actively look for rainbow/ally signs when I am walking into businesses or meeting with people.
2. I think that it’s made my life better. I don’t have the self-doubt I had 15 years ago when I was struggling with my identity. I can say who I am without feeling like I am “othered”. I think this is also representative of where I grew up (Canada) and the timeline we live in; the concept of found family has always been important for me. Oh, and I also get the honour of sporting the bi-pride colour palette which is pretty awesome too.
3. My life has changed immensely! It was liberating, and the weight of lying, hiding, and caring about what others thought of me was lifted and became lighter as the years rolled by. I came out as gay to close friends and family when I was 15. However, I decided to wait until I was 17 or 18 years old after the last day of class to come out to everyone else. This was in 2003. I made that decision so that I wouldn’t have to deal with any negative reactions or bullying in my all-boys Catholic high school. There was one bully at school who probably accused me of being gay at least once per day since grade 9 despite all my denials, so I also did not want to give him the satisfaction of saying “I told you so,” and “See, everyone? I was right all along.” To come out, all I did was wear a rainbow ring, and if anyone noticed or asked me why I was wearing it, I would tell them. The speed at which gossip spreads rivals that of the speed of light, so I only had to bite the bullet a few times initially. Eventually, everyone who knew me, knew, and I just had to bring it up with new people if my personal life came up.

What advice would you give someone thinking about coming out?

1. I’m not sure I have any advice, as coming out has to be a very personal decision. As with any decision to express ourselves in a way that might feel risky, I always ask two questions: “What are the risks if I am authentically me?” and “What are the risks if I’m not authentically me?” For me, the risks if I’m not authentically me — my mental health, my own self-worth, my ability to control my own life narrative – far outweigh the risks of hiding and “lying by omission” (as Eliot Page said in his coming out speech). 
2. No one can tell you when it’s time, the right or wrong way to do it, that’s for you to decide. Coming out doesn’t have to happen all at once, it doesn’t need to be a big spectacle, coming out looks different for every person. Once you do choose to come out you will feel better. Keeping your identity bottled up won’t do you any favours in the long run. 
3. I would say to think carefully about it before you do it and be realistic about what is likely to happen afterward. Think to yourself— “What is the fallout going to look like, and am I willing and prepared to live with the fallout?” I was fortunate enough to be able to come out without any financial implications, but that may not be the case for everyone. I have a friend who still to this day has never come out to his parents because he knows it won’t be a good time, and there is nothing wrong with that; coming out to just yourself and select people is sometimes the best way.
   Try to plan for a future that you want and deserve. After coming out, will there be any long-term financial or psychological safety/wellness changes, and are you prepared for them? Here are some example situations to consider:
   • Are you planning on living with family members for the coming years, and would they still allow you to live with them after coming out? How would they feel about a potential partner?
   • Are you going to be written out of a will that you would otherwise be entitled to?
   • Would family members who are going to pay for college/university tuition still be willing to pay for it after you come out?
   • Are there some people who will cut you out of their lives, and are you ready for that?

The cliché about coming out is “it gets better,” and it is very much true. If nothing else, hold onto that!  

Lunchtime Walk around NDC and EDC campus

To mark the day, the Gender and Sexual Diversity Working group will be hosting a lunchtime walk around NDC and EDC campus on Thursday, October 9, from 12–1 p.m. Participants are invited to wear their RRC Polytech Pride t-shirts as a show of support and celebration.

Walk take-off points will be from the Spectrum (NDC) and Mitakuye Oyasin Okciyape at Manitou a bi Bii daziigae (EDC). This is a wonderful chance to walk together in community, celebrate National Coming Out Day, and show pride across our campuses.

If you have any questions about the Lunchtime Walk at NDC or EDC, please reach out to Dr Obren Amiesimaka at oamiesimaka@rrc.ca.

Resources

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:

• NCOD – an Overview
• Be an Effective 2SLGBTQIA+ Ally
• How to be an Ally to a Bi+ Person
• What Does Trans Allyship Look Like?

Since 2007, the federal government has designated October as Canadian Islamic History Month – a time to celebrate, inform, educate, and share Muslim heritage with fellow Canadians. Throughout this month and beyond, we 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. 

Islamic History Month Canada (IHMC) has chosen the following for this year’s theme: Pioneering Muslim Communities in Canada – Cultivating Spaces for Comfort, Growth, and Learning Over Time.

“This theme highlights the resilience and dedication of early Muslim settlers in Canada and the communities they built — mosques, cultural centers, schools, and social spaces that have fostered belonging, learning, and mutual support. Through historical exploration and contemporary reflection, we will honor the pioneers whose efforts laid the foundation for vibrant and thriving Muslim communities today.” – Islamic History Month Canada.

Resources for Further Learning 

• A selection of videos, book and more, curated by Islamic History Month Canada  
• Islamic History Month Recommended Reading Guide from the Winnipeg Public Library