This June, IAFF affiliates in Canada and the U.S. celebrated Pride Month both inside the firehouse and out in their communities.
In Port Coquitlam, B.C., Local 1941 and its Port Coquitlam Professional Firefighters Charitable Society created a Pride-themed T-shirt, with proceeds supporting a local LGBTQ+ organization.
“Local 1941 proudly stands with Pride Month, using this T-shirt sale to reinforce our commitment to inclusivity, diversity, and equality in the fire service and community,” said Local 1941’s Emily Lehwald. “Now more than ever, we’re dedicated to creating a culture where everyone feels safe and valued.”
Now more than ever, we’re dedicated to creating a culture where everyone feels safe and valued.
Local 1941 member emily lehwald
St. Albert, AB Local 2130 is also participating in a Pride T-shirt initiative brought forward by one of their members and quickly supported and adopted by Local 2130’s leadership team.
“Every member was issued a T-shirt above our normal uniform issue. It’s become a visible way for us to show support for inclusivity and for the 2SLGBTQIA+ community, both within our department and the city we serve,” said Local 2130 President Greg Harvey.
Harvey says the T-shirt is also being worn by St. Albert Mayor Cathy Heron.
“Pride is about more than a month – it’s about standing up for equality, dignity, and respect every day,” said Harvey.
Among those leading with action in the U.S. is Buffalo, NY Local 282, who recently marched in the Buffalo Pride Parade in a show of solidarity.
“As first responders, we serve and protect all individuals, regardless of background or identity. By participating in the Pride Parade in Buffalo, we demonstrate our commitment to support everyone in our community,” said Local 282 President Christopher Whelan.
As first responders, we serve and protect all individuals, regardless of background or identity. By participating in the Pride Parade in Buffalo, we demonstrate our commitment to support everyone in our community.
Local 282 President Christopher Whelan
On the other side of the country, South County, WA Local 1828 continued a longstanding tradition with Pride-themed union stickers.
“For over a decade, our Local has proudly displayed the stickers on our apparatus during the month of June,” said Local 1828 President Pat Moore.
The stickers, now a symbolic part of the union’s culture, reflect years of advocacy.
“We believe that every fire fighter deserves to feel respected, represented, and safe within our profession. Solidarity means showing up for one another – and that includes honoring and uplifting our diverse union family,” said Moore.
