Today, April 8, is International Day of Pink. People across Ottawa, around the country and beyond are wearing pink, speaking up about discrimination and standing up against bullying. Join in this Ottawa-based effort to make a difference and help celebrate the 10th anniversary of Jer’s Vision. In fact the 10th annual #DayofPink Gala is taking place at Ottawa’s De La Salle Secondary School from 6:30-9:30 p.m. You’re welcome to attend.
In 2005 Jer’s Vision: Canada’s Youth Diversity Initiative was established by Jeremy Dias, a compelling young activist who had faced discrimination in high school after he came out as gay. Jeremy took the issue to court and when he won a human rights settlement, he used the money to launch the organization. In the process, he jump-started an international anti-discrimination movement that kids, parents, political leaders and whole communities support.
Ten years later, Jer’s Vision has become the Canadian Centre for Gender and Sexual Diversity (CCGSD) and it offers programming right across Canada and the United States, reaching over 250,000 people each year.
The commitment is unwavering though: to be more open minded and respectful of others, regardless of gender identity, gender expression, romantic or sexual orientation.
At this evening’s free gala, three Youth Role Model of the Year Awards will be given to leaders from across Canada who have gone above and beyond in the fight against bullying and discrimination.
The aim of the celebration is not to raise money, but rather to build community and to honour the success of Jer’s Vision. There will be free hors d’oeuvres, a cash bar, a raffle and a silent auction. The semi-formal event is wheelchair accessible. See ccgsd-ccdgs.org for details.
