It’s hard to believe that we’re approaching the midpoint of 2024, but I want to take a moment to extend my sincere thanks to each of you for your hard work through the first six months of this year. We are still feeling pressures in our healthcare system, but you continue to provide our community with outstanding care every day.
June is a time for many celebrations, notably Indigenous Peoples Month and Pride Month. Tomorrow is National Indigenous Peoples Day, which the City will mark with a Sunrise Ceremony beginning at 5:30 a.m. at Nathan Phillips Square. The annual ceremony welcomes the longest day of the year and gives thanks for all of creation and Mino Baamodziwin (The Good Life). After the ceremony, you’re invited to stay for a feast and celebration by the Toronto Sign, which will be lit in the four colours of the Medicine Wheel. More information is available on the intranet.
I also encourage you to continue to celebrate Pride Month at the Pride Toronto Festival Weekend taking place from June 28-30. This year’s festival includes a full schedule of events and the StreetFair. Check out the 2024 Festival Map online, and don’t forget to stop by Toronto Paramedic Services’ booth!
A highlight of the weekend’s festivities is the Pride Parade taking place on Sunday, June 30. All staff are invited to join the Senior Leadership team and me as we march in the parade alongside colleagues, friends, and family! We had an incredible time in 2023, and we’re very excited to march again this year. If you are interested in participating, please reach out to Paramedic Janique Hurley via email (janique.hurley@toronto.ca) for more details.
A reminder that you can purchase Pride pins and epaulettes to be worn throughout June. Pins are $5 and a set of epaulettes are $20. For more information or to purchase, click here: https://www.torontoparamedic.com/merchandise/
Please continue to take care of yourselves and each other.
Sincerely,
Chief Bikram Chawla
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