Pride Perspectives: Disability and Pride

Theo is a trans-nonbinary, demisexual, and queer individual based in Calgary. Living with Ehlers-Danlos syndrome, auDHD (autistic and ADHD), Functional Neurological Disorder, and other health challenges, Theo embraces their identity as a proud disabled queer person.

With experience in public speaking from a young age, Theo has been involved in discussions on diversity issues within the education system, speaking at open mic nights, school assemblies, and other events. They are passionate about participating in this event because they believe in the importance of visibility and representation for disabled queer individuals. Theo reflects on the lack of positive representation in media, often seeing disabled or queer characters relegated to comedic roles. They are committed to showing the world that both disability and queer pride are vital aspects of identity that deserve respect and celebration.

Theo is eager to contribute to conversations that challenge the stigma surrounding disability and queerness, reminding others that these identities are integral and empowering parts of who they are.

Rylee is a trans nonbinary individual who also identifies as a lesbian, based in Calgary. As an ambulatory wheelchair user living with multiple physical ailments, Rylee brings a unique perspective on accessibility within the 2SLGBTQIA+ community. She been an active advocate for years, running workshops to help allies understand the 2SLGBTQIA+ community and delivering harm reduction lessons to the general public.

As a disabled performer in Calgary, Rylee is passionate about sharing their insights on the challenges and needs of disabled individuals in queer spaces, particularly those who feel isolated due to inaccessibility. Her commitment to fostering understanding and inclusivity in the community makes them a valuable contributor to discussions around accessibility and queer identity.

Rachael Hanakowski is a dedicated advocate for diversity, equity, and inclusion, born and raised in Canmore. Living cerebral palsy and other chronic health conditions, she has spent her life working to ensure that the experiences of people with disabilities are recognized and valued. Rachael holds a background in sociology with a specialization in diversity, equity, and inclusion, and she played a key role as the first accessibility student representative at Mount Allison University. At the age of 18, she authored a memoir about her teenage experiences with disability, anxiety and navigating bullying. Excerpts are published online and she hopes to secure publication in the near future.

With extensive experience speaking on topics such as gender equality, accessibility, and lived experiences with disability and neurodivergence, Rachael is passionate about contributing to discussions that explore the intersection of disability and non-hetero/non-cis experiences. She is excited to participate in this event, which she sees as an important opportunity to foster inclusion and break down harmful stereotypes.

Andrea is an ally of the 2SLGBTQIA+ community, based in Calgary, with extensive experience as a junior high teacher and guidance counselor for over 15 years. Living with a major physical disability—T2 spinal cord injury with multiple reconstructions—Andrea uses a power wheelchair for events and has been navigating life with an acquired disability for the past 22 years.

Andrea is an active participant with Rocky Mountain Adaptive in Canmore, reflecting her commitment to staying engaged in adaptive sports and activities. With a background in both able-bodied and adapted sports, Andrea has competed at provincial and national levels and was a pioneer in the early years of women's ice hockey in the Canadian Inter-university Athletic Union (CIAU). She also played wheelchair rugby as the only woman on her team. Andrea’s experiences have given her a unique perspective on the differences between able-bodied and disabled worlds, and she is passionate about encouraging people to follow their dreams and recognize their unique strengths. Her contributions at teachers' conventions and professional development days have helped foster understanding and inclusivity within the educational community.

Mason is a nonbinary transgender individual who identifies as queer and disabled. With a background in grassroots organizing, they have facilitated fundraisers, panels, and community events focused on supporting Two Spirit, transgender, and gender-diverse financial aid. Mason founded See Change Collective, a nonprofit aimed at helping post-secondary students afford legal name changes before graduation.

Their work has emphasized creating physically inclusive spaces for disabled and/or 2SLGBTQIA+ individuals. Living with osteoarthrosis in their cervical spine and managing chronic pain and fatigue, Mason has become deeply connected with the disabled and trans communities.

As a psychology honours student at MRU, their current academic focus is on social and personal experiences of gender-affirming care among genderqueer individuals. Mason is passionate about using their experience and energy to support and bring together the 2SLGBTQIA+ community, and to bring awareness to the unique experiences of disabled members of community.