Since joining Holland Bloorview in 2019 for a field placement, Rajpreet (Raj) Singh Sandhu, manager, environmental services and co-chair of the LGBTQ2S+ employee resource group (ERG), has developed a profound appreciation for the organization, a sentiment that has only deepened over time. What captivates him most are the values of inclusion, diversity and active participation that is integrated in every aspect of the organization's work.

As a leader, Raj feels a deep responsibility to advocate for the LGBTQ2S+ community, promote positive change and foster a culture of acceptance and diversity. Working in a supportive and inclusive environment like Holland Bloorview, where diversity is accepted and valued, has inspired Raj's advocacy efforts and highlighted the positive impact of inclusion, equity, diversity, accessibility and anti-racism (IDEAA) policies and practices at Holland Bloorview.

At Holland Bloorview, the ERG provides a safe and inclusive space for LGBTQ2S+ employees to connect, share experiences and build a sense of community. This initiative is crucial in fostering a supportive workplace where the LGBTQ2S+ employees feel accepted and understood. The ERG is progressing towards building a strong foundation with regular meetings, social gatherings and awareness activities to promote education and engagement.

In a recent interview, Raj highlights some of the initiatives of the LGBTQ2S+ employee resource group today and his advocacy efforts at Holland Bloorview:

What are you most excited about being a co-chair for the LGBTQ2S+employee resource group and its initiatives?

The leadership role will definitely help me in providing inspiration and shaping the direction as well as initiatives of the ERG. I am looking forward to building a community within Holland Bloorview that is supportive, inclusive and fosters connections and belonging among staff. As a leader, I feel a strong responsibility to use the ERG platform to advocate for LGBTQ2S+ individuals, promote positive change and cultivate a culture of acceptance and diversity. Working in such a supportive and inclusive environment here at Holland Bloorview, where diversity and inclusion are deeply valued, inspires me to extend my support to LGBTQ2S+ colleagues. Seeing the positive impact of inclusive policies and practices here at Holland Bloorview has greatly motivated my advocacy efforts.

In your opinion, what are the key issues facing LGBTQ2S+ employees in the health-care sector today?

Some of the issues that LGBTQ2S+ community is facing are lack of inclusive workplace policies, mental health issues and intersectional challenges. Not all health-care facilities prioritize LGBTQ2S+ community at the forefront which can create a stressful work environment, especially for individuals with intersectional identities. On the contrary, Holland Bloorview has been a strong advocate and is a leading example of inclusion.

How does the ERG plan to address issues of intersectionality within the LGBTQ2S+ community at Holland Bloorview?

Personally, as someone with an intersectional identity, I am committed to establishing a strong foundation for the ERG with intersectionality as one of its core competencies. The ERG plans to address intersectional issues through education, awareness and inclusive events and activities that focus on topics such as race, gender, sexual orientation, disability and socioeconomic status.

What unique lens are you bringing to the role?

Being young myself, I bring an understanding of current trends and issues affecting youth. This will help ensure the group’s relevance to the current and future generations while respecting and integrating past experiences with emerging trends.

What motivates you in your work with the ERG and Holland Bloorview in general?

Everything about the ERG and the organization inspires me. It's incredibly fulfilling to be part of a community dedicated to such wholesome goals. The positive, inclusive and diverse environment is a great motivation and nothing else compares to it. The kids, the families and everyone involved to make Holland Bloorview a better place melts my heart.