In celebration of Pride Month, Chatham-Kent Health Alliance (CKHA) unveiled a pride-themed bench at its Chatham Site on June 14, 2022.
A gift from retired CKHA pharmacist Janet Johnston and local physician Dr. Ian Johnston, the pride bench will be permanently located near the main entrance at the Chatham Site.
“This bench represents CKHA’s commitment to equity, diversity and inclusion (EDI). Within our current Strategic Plan, EDI has been set forth as a priority that will see the implementation of an equity framework to deliver culturally safe and friendly care to the diverse populations we serve,” said Lori Marshall, President and CEO, CKHA, in a media release.
“We are grateful for this generous gift from the Johnstons and what it represents for our hospital and community.”
“Besides being a nice place to sit, we thought this bench would be a bright and easily identifiable message to both staff and our community that CKHA is open and welcoming to everyone. We hope that by seeing signs like this, members of Chatham Kent’s 2SLGBTQ+ community will feel safe seeking healthcare here,” said Janet and Ian Johnston, in a media release.
The pride bench displays the colour of the rainbow flag, which has long been a symbol of two-spirit, lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer or questioning (2SLGBTQ+) social movements.
10% of the purchase price of the bench will be donated to CK Pride – a non-profit organization that creates opportunities to celebrate, advocate, support, mentor, and educate to enhance the quality of life for members of the 2SLGBTQ+ community in Chatham-Kent.
“This beautiful bench generously donated by the Johnstons to CKHA provides a visual symbol of the ongoing commitment to embrace Diversity, Equity and Inclusion for the 2SLGBTQ+ community. CK Pride celebrates with you,” said Marianne Willson, Chair, Board of Directors, CK Pride, in a media release.
“The pride bench and its symbolic meaning conveys CKHA’s commitment to a safe and welcoming environment and is significant to many in our community. Thank you to the Johnstons for this wonderful gift and for their dedication to 2SLGBTQ+ advocacy,” said Mary Lou Crowley, President and CEO, CKHA Foundation.
