Colleagues, as you are well aware, the Summer Olympics in Paris kick off in 43 days, and the Paralympic Games begin in 76 days.

I retired in 2008, but I must admit that I still sometimes define myself as a proud Paralympian, with a pride that never fades and is revived every two years. Seeing our athletes work so hard to push their limits, realize their dreams and pursue ambitious goals reminds me why I’m proud to be Canadian.

June is also Pride Month, a month to commemorate all the contributions that 2SLGBTQIA individuals make to our country. This year, as always, that pride extends to so much more. Many of our Paralympic athletes are part of this community and deserve a whole lot of love and encouragement. This year, I want to highlight them.

Being a person with a disability comes with its share of obstacles. Being a Paralympian also has its challenges, even today. Being a Paralympic athlete belonging to the 2SLGBTQIA community adds a new level of challenges — and honestly, stigmas remain even now. Today, I want to highlight their determination in living their most authentic lives, in their way and how they want. I want to highlight their love of sport and the fact that anyone in Canada can chase a dream, no matter who they are, where they come from or what limitations, setbacks or obstacles they may have in their lives.

Colleagues, if you can, take the time this summer to communicate with an athlete from your region going to Paris this year by email or social media — if you know them personally, even better. Let them know how proud of them you are.

During Pride Month, let’s not forgot that pride is not only found within us for our own individual accomplishments, it’s also found — and mainly, probably — through others in how they inspire us and how they impact us. That, dear colleagues, is Canadian pride, and that is what our athletes will bring to us.

To all our athletes, know that we will be cheering loudly and that we can’t wait to see you perform in Paris.

Thank you, meegwetch.