Honouring every path to Pride

Self-love is showing up for yourself, just as you are.

Humber Polytechnic and the University of Guelph-Humber launched Pride Month 2025 with vibrant opening ceremonies and flag raisings at both Lakeshore and North campuses on June 3, 2025.

This year’s theme, “All In: Honouring Every Path to Pride,” invited the community to reflect on the diverse identities, experiences and stories that shape the 2SLGBTQIA+ community. The message is simple but powerful: every journey is valid and everyone belongs.

The Lakeshore campus event, held at the welcome centre, featured live music by the RAW Drummers, light refreshments and space for connection and celebration.

Simultaneously, a smaller flag-raising was held at North Campus, ensuring all students had a chance to participate in this shared moment of visibility, pride and inclusion.

At the ceremony, I had the opportunity to connect with members of Humber’s LGBTQIA+ community and listen to their journeys.

A path to self-acceptance

A person is smiling. — *Image by Aditya Mohan*

I spoke with Sheldon D’souza, a student in the global business management program, who sees Pride as a personal and evolving journey of self-discovery and growth.

“Pride is a journey of celebration through self-acceptance. It creates a personal sense of community that helps me realize I’m not alone in this journey,” he said.

He emphasized how Humber’s welcoming environment plays a crucial role in this process. “It’s easy to feel alone, but Humber’s community events create a comfortable feeling to be on campus,” D’souza mentioned.

When asked what he’d say to his younger self—the version of him still figuring things out—D’souza gave a heartfelt message, “Cry less, love more, be gay, be you,” he said.

It’s a message that resonates not only with younger queer students but with anyone learning to live more fully and freely.

Living your truth out loud

A person is standing in an office. — *Image by Aditya Mohan*

For Mayoree Williams, a student in the business management program, Pride is about confidence, authenticity and unapologetic truth-telling.

“Pride means being confident with your truth,” Williams said. A statement that reflects not just personal strength, but the courage it takes to live visibly as a non-binary person in today’s world.

Williams also spoke of the sense of connection they’ve found at Humber, a space where inclusion is not just a buzzword, but something practiced and felt.

“Connecting with people who understand you feels amazing,” they shared. For them, finding community among fellow LGBTQIA+ students and allies has been key in building a supportive and affirming experience on campus.

One of the most powerful ways Williams expresses their identity is through style. “Expressing who you are through an outfit—that’s what it looks like for me,” they said.

When asked what message they’d give their younger self, Williams’ answer was delivered with a smile and a whole lot of love, “You non-binary, bro,” they said.

It’s a reminder that identity doesn’t always arrive with a roadmap, but when it does arrive, it’s something to honour and to live out loud.

Kindness is at the heart of Pride

A diverse crowd of people clapping and cheering in celebration. — *Image via IGNITE*

Everyone’s journey is different and just being there to hear someone out can mean the world. One of the easiest ways to support Pride is by listening to others’ stories with respect and without judgment.

You can also show support by learning more about the 2SLGBTQIA+ community. That might mean reading a book or watching a documentary. The more we understand each other, the more compassionate and inclusive we become.

Using someone’s correct pronouns, respecting their identity and standing up against harmful comments or jokes are all ways to make a big difference.

Let’s celebrate Pride together! Attend events, learn about the community, dance, cheer and just enjoy the joy that comes from people being themselves. Being an ally means showing up and saying, “I see you and I’m with you.”

At the end of the day, being supportive is really just about showing kindness, love and the willingness to make space for everyone to shine. Pride is for everyone because acceptance, love and celebration are things we all deserve.

Apply for the IGNITE Pride Scholarship today!

A group of people is standing together. — *Image via IGNITE*

In addition to celebrating Pride, IGNITE remains committed to supporting 2SLGBTQ+ students in meaningful and lasting ways. One of these initiatives is the annual Pride Scholarship, which awards $1,000 to five students.

Applications for the 2025 Pride Scholarship open June 2 and close July 2. To qualify, applicants must be enrolled full-time or part-time in the summer or fall 2025 semesters. They must be in good academic standing, identify as part of the 2SLGBTQ+ community and demonstrate leadership or community involvement.

Apply now and let your story shine!

A celebration of authenticity and community

Pride flags are displayed on a flagpole. — *Image via IGNITE*

Pride Month at Humber and UofGH is about so much more than just raising a flag—it’s a vibrant, campus-wide affirmation of love, truth and belonging.

It’s a time when every corner of the college comes alive with celebration, reflection and connection, reminding us all of the importance of embracing our authentic selves.

As we come together this Pride Month, we celebrate the strength that comes from being true to who we are and the joy that blossoms when we stand united in acceptance.

Happy Pride!

Feature image courtesy of IGNITE

Want to learn how the Pride scholarship helped the previous recipients? Check out meet the 2024 IGNITE Pride Scholarship recipients!