Torys celebrates Pride 2020

As a firm, Torys is proud of the diverse and inclusive values we uphold. We have always believed strongly in harnessing the insight and imagination of a diverse group of people.

The physical distancing measures currently in place in Ontario mean our annual Pride celebrations with Enbridge were virtual this year. Despite the change of format, Margaret Froh, President of the Métis Nation of Ontario gave an inspiring address to attendees as the keynote speaker. Here is an excerpt from Margaret’s address:

Growing up queer and Indigenous in rural Saskatchewan in the 60s-70s wasn’t always easy. I didn’t have resources or role models. Like so many other young queer and Indigenous people I really struggled.

Having support, having role models, having somewhere to turn to when you're feeling low, being seen, included and respected is just so incredibly important—it’s what we all need. These are cornerstones to mental health.

In the spirit of Margaret’s appeal to making everyone in our communities feel supported and connected, including in these heightened times of need during the pandemic crisis, both Torys and Enbridge have made donations to Kids Help Phone.

Our involvement

We are proud of our active LGBTQ2S Affinity Group. Members of the LGBTQ2S group participate in recruiting, education, awareness-building and other internal initiatives, as well as fundraising, networking and other external activities.

Our commitment to the LGBTQ2S community includes representing groups such as the Canadian AIDS Society, the Coalition for Lesbian and Gay Rights in Ontario, the Canadian Lesbian and Gay Archives, and the Foundation for Equal Families.

Other initiatives we are involved in include:

• In 2016 Torys joined other law firms and private sector parties to support the establishment of the Egale Centre—Canada’s first and Toronto’s only transitional housing facility exclusively dedicated to serving homeless LGBTQ2S youth.
• Torys is also a member of the Pride at Work and Out on Bay Street organizations, participating in several their events each year.
• Torys is an active member of the Law Firm Diversity and Inclusion Network (LFDIN) and collaborates with a community of thought leaders to improve inclusivity and diversity, both within practice and the community.

Happy Pride 2020!