A reflection on why visible, consistent support for 2SLGBTQIA+ inclusivity, awareness, and acceptance still matters.
By Dimitri Benak, Vice President of Talent
Every June, we raise the flag — not just as a symbol, but as a statement. Our Purpose is rooted in Raising the Good in Food, and our people strategy is anchored in Developing Extraordinary Talent. That means creating space where everyone — no matter who they are or who they love — feels they belong, can grow, and can lead.
This year, staying committed means more than showing colours. In today’s climate, where 2SLGBTQIA+ rights are still being questioned or threatened in some parts of Canada and under attack in the U.S., the need for visible, active support is as critical as ever.
We asked a few Team Members to share what Pride means to them this year — and why consistency matters.
“Pride is a time to celebrate the contributions and resilience of the 2SLGBTQIA+ community. It’s imperative that we recognize that the journey towards equity and inclusion is not over. Pride is a time to uplift diverse voices, and loudly and proudly affirm that everyone deserves to live openly and safely in their communities.”
— Rosemary, Consumer Engagement
“Pride isn’t just a moment or collection of moments, but a movement. That movement can be large or small, political or personal, and can swing the pendulum, or sometimes just nudge the needle. For me, Pride framed a moment that I’ll remember forever — when my three adult children, their partners, my niece, and my ex-wife and her husband all marched in the Pride Toronto parade alongside me and my husband, and in that very public moment, as in all the private ones that came before and have come since, showed the world what a family — one built on love, respect and kindness — can look like.”
— Max, Purchasing
“Supporting Pride at work means recognizing the struggles and challenges that many face just to be themselves. It’s about acknowledging the pain and discrimination that still exists and standing together to create a safe space. In a world where acceptance is not always guaranteed, we strive to make our workplace a sanctuary where everyone can find solace and be their true selves. Being an ally is about being someone that my team can count on year-round — especially when it’s not easy or popular.”
— Jennifer, Strategic Execution
So, what does commitment look like now?
It looks like listening to voices like these. It looks like checking in with your teams, your language, your impact. It looks like showing up, not just during Pride Month, but throughout the year.
That’s why we continue to support community-led events like Pride Toronto because visibility matters, and allyship means standing alongside 2SLGBTQIA+ communities.
So, we’ll keep raising the flag. And we’ll keep showing up — with clarity, with care, and with consistency.
