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 

Since 2010, we have celebrated Disability Employment Awareness Month (DEAM) every October. This month highlights the skills and contributions of people with disabilities in the workplace.

At RRC Polytech, we proudly celebrate this every day. Our commitment to Equity, Diversity, Inclusion, and Accessibility (EDIA) means we create environments that are welcoming, supportive, and respectful to everyone.

Light It Up! For NDEAM

RRC Polytech will once again take part in Light It Up! For NDEAM™, Ontario Disability Employment Network (ODEN)’s annual National Disability Employment Awareness Month (NDEAM) campaign. On Thursday, October 16, 2025, organizations across Canada will light up their offices in purple and blue for one special night.

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 16 and for the rest of the month.
• Project the “Light It Up! for NDEAM” graphic on the Elgin Plaza from October 14 to 18, 2025.
• 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, 2025.

We invite all students and employees to wear purple and blue on October 16. Take a photo or selfie with your colleagues and share it on social media using the hashtags #LightItUpForNDEAM and #rrcpolytech.

Accessibility at RRC Polytech

As we light up our campuses, we want everyone in our community to know about and have access to the many accessibility resources, including:

• Accessibility Parking: RRC Polytech provides accessible parking for staff. 
• Accessibility Plan: Our Accessibility Plan outlines the steps we take to identify and remove barriers for people with disabilities and is updated every two years.
• Accessibility Quick Tips for Staff: Last year, we shared weekly tips to make our spaces more inclusive. After 52 weeks, we are excited to continue sharing new tips. View them on Staff Forum (staff access only).
• Accessibility Tech Tips for Enhanced Learning: The SAS Assistive Technologist shares technology tips to support all students. Visit the Tech Tips blog or subscribe to the newsletter to stay updated.
• Accessibility Training: All employees must complete Accessible Customer Service and Accessible Information and Communication Standard training. Training is available anytime in LEARN.
• Deaf and Hard of Hearing Services: We provide ASL-English interpreters and computerized note-takers for equal access to education. Book services through this form.  
• Individual Emergency Plans: Outlines safe evacuation procedures for individuals with disabilities during emergencies. Visit the Safety, Health, and Security Services SharePoint or email safety@rrc.ca to request an individual emergency plan.
• Interview Accommodation: Our recruitment process is barrier-free. Learn about accommodations and how to request them on the Interview Accommodation Page.
• Student Accessibility Services (SAS): SAS helps arrange accommodations and supports students with disabilities.
• Supportive Employment: A specialized area within Human Resources that focuses on managing disabilities in the workplace.

Feedback about Accessibility at RRC Polytech

We value your suggestions on how to improve accessibility services across our campuses. You can share your feedback by filling out the feedback form on our website or by emailing us at diversity@rrc.ca.

You can also help us understand the diversity of our community by completing the voluntary Employment Equity Self-Identification Questionnaire.

• Staff can access and update their self-identification information at any time through the Human Resources Information System (HRIS).
• Students who wish to self-identify can contact the Student Services Centre at their campus.

Rosh Hashanah, beginning before sundown on Monday, September 22, and ending after nightfall on Wednesday, September 24, 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 Wednesday, October 1, and ending after nightfall on October 2. 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.

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!) 

This year’s theme is “No Human Rights Without Sign Language Rights”. It highlights how important sign language is in bringing people together and supporting full participation in society. Sign language is not just a way to communicate; it is a human right and a part of cultural identity.

Monday, September 22, 2025: Deaf communities leading

In November 2025, the Deaflympics will take place in Tokyo. This event celebrates the talents and achievements of Deaf athletes around the world.

In Manitoba and across Canada, many organizations support Deaf culture and rights, such as:

• 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.
• The Manitoba Deaf Sports Association promotes and supports Deaf and hard of hearing individuals through sports, aiming to strengthen and celebrate Deaf culture.
• The Manitoba Deaf Association supports and creates accessible educational and recreational activities to benefit the Deaf community.

Tuesday, September 23, 2025: No Human Rights Without Sign Language Rights

RRC Polytech will recognize the International Day of Sign Languages by raising the Deaf Flag in front of the Notre Dame Campus bus loop on Tuesday, September 23, 2025, at 11:00 a.m.

This day highlights the importance of sign languages in protecting and promoting the human

rights of Deaf communities worldwide.

Wednesday, September 24. 2025: Multilingual education for Deaf learners

The World Federation of the Deaf advocates for schools where Deaf students learn in an inclusive, multilingual setting that respects their language and culture.

At RRC Polytech, our ASL to English Interpretation Program has officially returned this Fall! Learn more here: ASL to English Interpretation Program Returning in Fall 2025.

Thursday, September 25, 2025: Deaf rights in Crises

Deaf communities must be included in emergency planning. The World Federation of the Deaf provides guidelines for making emergency broadcasts accessible.

At RRC Polytech, Deaf and hard of hearing students and employees can request an individual emergency response plan. Visit:

• For Staff: Supportive Employment page on Staff Forum.
• For Students: Student Accessibility Services page.

Friday, September 26, 205: Recognition of National Sign Language

Many countries still do not officially recognize their national sign language. The WFD offers resources to help advocate for change. Learn more on the World Federation of the Deaf website.

Saturday, September 27, 2025: Sign Language Access Services

Deaf people have the right to choose how they communicate, whether through national sign language or International Sign.

RRC Polytech is committed to equal access for Deaf and Hard of Hearing students and staff. Explore our resources:

• 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

Sunday, September 28, 2025: Set the basis for the future: together we can innovate, inspire, and impact

Deaf communities are creative and innovative. They continue to shape the future with new ideas and technology. Here are two Deaf Canadians who are making a difference:

• Jolanta Lapiak is a Deaf Canadian. She founded Handspeak, an online dictionary for American Sign Language (ASL). Check out Jolanta’s work here.
• Dr. Jessica Dunkley, Canada’s first Deaf physician, has been a strong advocate for change since her early days in medical school. Learn more here.

The Gender and Sexual Diversity (GSD) Group has created a new background for virtual meetings to celebrate diversity, inclusion, and belonging for all in our community.

It’s designed for everyone who wants to help create a welcoming space in every virtual meeting.

How to use it:

1. Download the background by right-clicking the link and saving it to your computer
2. To change your MS Teams background before or during a meeting, follow these steps from Microsoft.

Note: When using images as backgrounds in MS Teams, they may look reversed on your own screen. However, they display correctly for others in the meeting. If you’re unsure, you can ask a colleague to confirm how it looks on their computer.

If you have any questions, please email us at diversity@rrc.ca.