Celebrating Pride Month: Embracing Diversity and Inclusion in the Credit Union Community
Pride Month is an opportunity to share and celebrate the commitment to diversity and the celebration of differences that are core to the credit union movement. Across the country, credit unions are actively promoting these values through various initiatives and activities that support and uplift the 2SLGBTQIA+ community.
“Pride Month is a time to celebrate the diverse identities within our community and honor the legacy of those who paved the way for our rights. Credit unions across the country are demonstrating their commitment to diversity and inclusion by actively participating in Pride Month celebrations and initiatives,” says Angel Perez, the Canadian Credit Union Association’s Human Resources Generalist & DEI Lead.
“These efforts not only foster a more inclusive environment within our organizations but also strengthen our communities by promoting understanding and acceptance. Together, we can create a future where everyone feels valued and respected.”
Atlantic Edge Credit Union (AECU)
Atlantic Edge Credit Union (AECU) is engaging its staff and members with a variety of initiatives to provide education and awareness as part of their DEI journey.
Throughout Pride Month, AECU has created pride posters and is sending out weekly emails containing educational materials on topics such as pronouns, pride flags, and transgender education. Additionally, AECU hosted an online session for staff to discuss the importance of Pride Month and to highlight key dates related to pride.
Each branch has received pride flags for their desks, and pride-themed prizes have been purchased from a pride-owned store for various activities, including a staff quiz and a “wear pride colors” day on June 28th. Staff members are also encouraged to attend pride events on Eventbrite to win these prizes.
Coast Capital
Coast Capital has four Pride events planned throughout June and July including a “Summer of Joy” Pride celebration for employees at Help Headquarters in Surrey, BC; sponsorship and volunteer opportunities at Surrey Pride, the Victoria Pride Festival in the Park and the popular Pride fundraiser, Fitness is SUCH a Drag, a kick-off to the Vancouver Pride Festival. Coast Capital’s Pride Inclusivity Employee Resource Group has also curated the perfect soundtrack for summer and Pride festivities with the “Coast’s Summer of Pride 2024 Playlist” on Spotify, a compilation of 2SLGBTQIA+ anthems and essential pride tracks.
Coast Capital believes in creating safe spaces and a welcoming workplace year-round. The organization has implemented an Inclusion Code, a code of conduct proudly displayed in each of its 45 branches, which clearly conveys their commitment to inclusion and treating others with courtesy and respect.
Coast Capital emphasizes the importance of standing in allyship and breaking down barriers for the 2SLGBTQIA+ community, including transgender and gender non-conforming individuals. They aim to create safer spaces for everyone to work, bank, and thrive.
Synergy Credit Union
Synergy Credit Union is hosting a Pride Event in its parking lot, featuring a Pride Walk, BBQ, games, and more. Additionally, Synergy employees are welcome to attend an Indigenous event hosted by the local museum, which includes flute teachings and a storytelling workshop.
Servus Credit Union
Servus Credit Union is celebrating Pride Month by sponsoring the third annual “Drag Me Out to the Ballgame” event, a family friendly baseball game featuring rival teams of drag performers. This event raises money for two local non-profits, one supporting 2SLGBTQ+ youth and the other supporting Indigenous youth and their families.
Last year, Servus helped raise $30,000, and they hope to surpass that amount this year. Melinda Verga, RuPaul’s Drag Race’s first Edmonton queen, will be a special guest at the event.
As Pride Month continues, credit unions remain dedicated to fostering environments where all individuals feel valued and respected, ensuring that diversity, equity, and inclusion are more than just ideals, but realities within their communities.