Designing With Pride: Inclusion at the Heart of DIALOG

June 30, 2025

Pride began as a fight for liberation, and it continues today as a celebration of identity, community and belonging.

At DIALOG, we proudly celebrate the diverse identities within our practice, fostering an open and inclusive culture where everyone can bring their whole selves to work. We value different voices, perspectives, and backgrounds and these voices, lead to better design. Our team reflects a spectrum of identities, and we honour the strength that comes from being seen and heard.

We understand that the best designs come from a collaborative process that respects and celebrates the unique contributions of each individual. We asked some of our team members what Pride means to them.

For me, a gay trans man, Pride is the time I welcome questions, hoping to share some knowledge, break down stereotypes, and offer insight into the lived experience of a trans person. It’s an opportunity to educate others and foster understanding within our community. By sharing my story and experiences, I aim to challenge misconceptions and promote acceptance. Pride is not just a celebration; it’s a platform for advocacy and awareness, where we can come together to support one another and work towards a more inclusive and equitable society. It’s a time to honour those who came before us, paving the way for many of the freedoms we have today, and to continue the fight for equal rights and protections for all LGBTQ2S+ individuals.

—Jason Abelson, Studio Administrator, Vancouver, BC

As a queer woman, Pride is both a celebration and an opportunity for a deep breath. It’s the affirming feeling of not having to explain the parts of me that don’t fit neatly into a box. I’ve lived in the spaces between labels, and Pride reminds me those spaces are valid. Pride is about community, resilience, and the freedom to be unapologetically ourselves.

—Vicki Hrap, Structural Engineer, Calgary, AB

Being an ally isn’t just about waving a flag or showing up to a Pride event. It’s about standing up every single day for those whose voices need to be amplified — and being a safe place, always

—Maria Merrick, Technologist, Edmonton, AB

Pride, to me, means being able to live openly, love loudly, and take up space without apology.It’s about safety, visibility, and the the freedom to be fully, unapologetically yourself. I’m proud to work at a place that doesn’t just celebrate the LGBTQ2S+ community in June, but supports us, uplifts us and stands with us 365 days a year. That kind of commitment matters. That kind of allyship makes a difference.

—Matt Latreille, Communications Coordinator, Toronto, ON

Pride is a celebration of identity, resilience, and love- and as an ally to the wonderful LGBTQ2S+ community, its a commitment to creating spaces where everyone feels seen, valued and safe. In design, we hold the power to shape not just buildings, but culture. I believe true leadership means using that power to elevate voices that have too often been left out of the conversation.

—Alison McNeil, Partner, Design

DIALOG is proud to stand with the LGBTQ2S+ community, celebrating the progress made and recognizing the work still to be done. Together, we can create a world where everyone is accepted, and their differences are celebrated.