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Fondation Émergence Celebrates LGBTQ+ Advocacy
The Organization Rolls Out the Red Carpet for Gala Émergence
Montreal, September 5, 2024 – Fondation Émergence proudly presents its Gala Émergence, marking the 22nd edition of its annual awards ceremony under the theme "Red Carpet Émergence: Celebrating Advocacy and Diversity." This event recognizes individuals and organizations that have excelled in the fight against LGBTQ+ discrimination and celebrates the progress made for LGBTQ+ rights in Quebec and beyond.
"Gala Émergence will be a moment to celebrate, in a spirit of festivity, the dedication, commitment, and involvement of individuals and organizations advocating for the recognition of LGBTQ+ rights," says Patrick Desmarais, President of Fondation Émergence. Once again this year, the event will serve as a fundraiser to support the foundation's mission and its awareness programs.
"Once again this year, National Bank is proud to partner with Fondation Émergence to celebrate the achievements and rights of LGBTQ2+ individuals and allies. We commend the honorees for their dedication and share their vision of an increasingly inclusive society for sexual and gender diversity. Gala Émergence is an invaluable opportunity to highlight their work while also reflecting on the progress still to be made," states Stéphane Bérubé, Vice President, Operations, Infrastructure Delivery & Security Assets at National Bank, and LGBTQ2+ Segment Leader.
Distinguished Honorees
The Laurent-McCutcheon Award is presented this year to Yannick Nézet-Séguin, in recognition of his unwavering commitment to openness and inclusion. As the first openly gay music director of the Big Five orchestras, he has frequently spoken about his homosexuality in the media, making him an undeniable role model.
The Janette-Bertrand Award is awarded to the Musée de la Civilisation de Québec for its groundbreaking exhibition "Unique en son genre", which brought together community and scientific partners with artistic excellence and boldness, raising awareness of gender identity.
This year, two Prix coup de cœur were presented:
The first goes to Judith Séguin and Eugénie Lépine-Blondeau, whose advocacy led to significant changes at CHUM, ensuring greater inclusivity for same-sex parents in healthcare settings.
The second was given to Radio-Canada for its podcast "Fais un homme de toi," which sheds light on the harrowing experiences of conversion therapy survivors.
The Academic Award recognizes the Canada Research Chair on Transgender Children and Their Families is honored for its multidisciplinary mobilization efforts in developing the Research Team on Trans Youth and Their Families. Their high-quality, trans-affirmative research and publications address critical issues at a time when trans and non-binary youth rights are under threat worldwide.
The Engagement Award honors Carlos Idibouo and Solange A. Musanganya, two dedicated African LGBTQ+ activists who have tirelessly fought for the recognition and protection of LGBTQ+ rights on the international stage.
Finally, the EDI+ Award will highlight a company or organization that has taken meaningful steps to create a more inclusive and respectful workplace for individuals of sexual and gender diversity. The winner of this prestigious award will be announced during the Gala Émergence.
