The Day of Pink and its 257 volunteers has long worked to create inclusive spaces for 2SLGBTQI+ communities. The organization runs programs throughout the year, advocating for equality, equity and inclusivity.

In 2025, they launched Re-Emergence: Honouring the activists from the LGBT Purge, a project that shares the stories of 2SLGBTQI+ people who were forced out of Canada’s military due to discriminatory policies. It highlights their contributions and advocacy, helping students and communities learn from their experiences.

A turning point in Canadian history

Developed in 2024, this project marks 35 years since Michelle Douglas challenged her dismissal from the military in 1989. She was discharged for being gay and successfully fought the decision in court. In 1992, the military revoked its policy, setting a precedent for 2SLGBTQI+ rights in Canada.

Youth volunteers were also inspired by the resilience of the 2SLGBTQI+ community and wanted to make sure their voices and stories were heard. “We believe that remembering these struggles and the victories that followed is essential to shaping a more inclusive future,” said Jeremy Dias, a Day of Pink volunteer.

The LGBT Purge and Todd Ross’ story

In the decades following the Second World War into the 1990s, 2SLGBTQI+ members of the Canadian Armed Forces, RCMP and federal public service were systematically investigated, harassed and dismissed because of their sexual orientation or gender identity. This campaign of discrimination became known as the LGBT Purge.

Todd Ross, a Two-Spirit Métis Veteran, was dismissed from the Royal Canadian Navy in 1990 after coming out as gay. Survivors like Ross would go on to challenge the injustice they faced, leading to the class-action lawsuit Ross, Roy, Satalic v. Canada.

The settlement of that case not only provided financial compensation to those affected, but also established the LGBT Purge Fund, dedicated to preserving this history and advancing reconciliation. Today, the Fund supports projects like Re-Emergence, where survivors share their stories with youth and communities across Canada. Through this work, Ross and others have transformed painful experiences into opportunities for education, visibility and healing.

Sharing the stories of Purge Survivors

With support from the Commemorative Partnership Program, Day of Pink hosted events in Alberta, Ontario, Manitoba and Saskatchewan. These focused on storytelling, education and visibility. Ross spoke at 14 schools and community events across five regions, reaching 2,750 people in person and over 45,000 online. He shared his personal story and those of other Purge survivors, helping youth and communities understand this part of Canadian history.

Impact on students and communities

In feedback shared with Day of Pink, students said they were inspired by Ross’ story and appreciated seeing this part of history acknowledged in their schools. “For many in our community, this was the first time they saw their history reflected and honoured in a public and educational setting,” noted Dias. “That visibility and recognition are deeply meaningful.”

After Ross’ presentations, students often thanked him personally. One student said they had never heard someone speak openly about being queer in the military and that it gave them hope for their own future. “Moments like that – quiet, personal but deeply resonant – are at the heart of why we do this work,” Dias said.

Ross especially enjoyed hearing from youth in the Cadets program, who told him how things have changed since he was a teenager. “When I hear students talk about how they’re excelling in Cadets, it’s the pride you feel in that,” he said.

Continuing the work

Day of Pink plans to keep sharing the stories of 2SLGBTQI+ service members through events and educational materials. Dias and Ross remain committed to advocacy. “We want to uplift their voices,” said Dias. “It’s rewarding to give back to the community and be a part of it.”

To learn more or get involved, visit the Day of Pink website.