Island Health Shows Up Proud at Victoria Pride

Posted On: July 8, 2025

 

From: Diversity, Equity & Inclusion

 

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On sunny Sunday, July 6, 2SLGBTQIA+ members of the organization, alongside allied colleagues, leaders, friends and family, came together in celebration and solidarity at the Victoria Pride Parade.

Coordinated by Island Health's Diversity, Equity & Inclusion team in partnership with members of the 2SLGBTQIA+ Employee Resource Group, a vibrantly decorated Island Health float truck led the way, followed by participants proudly carrying “Love is Healthy" signs, handing out water bottles and sunscreen as they marched through downtown Victoria.
 

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​Shay Feniuk, Registration Practice & Reliability Training Lead and lead organizer for Island Health at Victoria Pride​ (pictured right), shared what the experience meant: “It felt important—not just to show up, but to stand proud as a queer in healthcare. Representation matters, and visibility saves lives."

Speaking to the importance of Island Health's presence at Pride, Shay added: “Showing up for Pride is about support, representation, and connection. When our community sees us, even one moment of visibility can make walking through our doors feel safer, warmer, and more welcoming."

The Parade culminated at McDonald Park for the festival portion of the event, where the Victoria Public Health Unit hosted an outreach booth. Public Health Nurses were on site offering information about health resources, outreach services and supports.

Significant effort went into planning and participating in this year's Pride events across the Island—including the Nanaimo Parade, Campbell River Pride, and Victoria celebrations. Thank you to the many individuals, teams and programs whose energy, advocacy and allyship brought Pride to life.
 

Happy Pride! Together, we make healthcare more inclusive for all.

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This June—and throughout the year—Island Health joins our local communities in celebration of Pride Month. Read related articles: