Kerri Jack
This month, Recreation Nova Scotia proudly celebrates the Municipality of the District of Chester for achieving the 2SLGBTI+ Chamber of Commerce Rainbow Registered Accreditation Program in January 2025. As one of only 65 registered organizations in Nova Scotia, the Municipality is the first government body to complete this significant program. Among them are other accredited organizations such as Scotiabank Centre, Discovery Centre, the Kentville Visitor Centre, Africville Heritage Trust, the Art Gallery of Nova Scotia, and Kejimkujik National Park and National Historic Site, all contributing to a diverse and inclusive community.
The 2SLGBTI+ Chamber of Commerce is a national organization that passionately advocates, educates and empowers the 2SLGBTQI+ business community to grow. With core values rooted in community, collaboration, diversity, equity, integrity, bravery, and boldness, they are dedicated to fostering an inclusive environment. The Rainbow Registered Accreditation Program for 2SLGBTI+ Friendly Spaces, a partnership between Canada's 2SLGBTQI+ Chamber of Commerce (CGLCC) and Tourism HR Canada, honours businesses and organizations that adhere to high-quality standards. By earning and displaying the Rainbow Registered symbol, these businesses proudly demonstrate their commitment to making 2SLGBTQI+ customers feel welcomed and accepted.
Shelley Rafuse, Founding Director of Lunenburg County Pride, says, "It signifies that a business, organization, or Municipality has met rigorous standards for being inclusive, supportive, and welcoming to 2SLGBTQIA+ individuals through the recognitions of safe spaces, the encouragement of diversity within the community, support for queer economic growth, and building trust, visibility, and allyship. Overall, this is progress forward, which is always a welcome change."
Accreditation is a four-step process that includes reviewing program requirements, completing an application, undergoing an assessment stage, and finalizing a report and next steps. The Municipality of the District of Chester has proudly demonstrated its commitment to meeting the standards for accreditation through its thoughtful policies, dedicated training, and community participation. Chester Community Economic Development Officer Ashley Marlin highlights the significance of this initiative, stating, "It was important for us to clearly show that our Municipal organization, staff, and buildings are safe and welcoming." As a testament to this commitment, the Municipality proudly displays the Rainbow Registered logo and information at all municipal building entrances, inviting everyone to experience a culture of inclusion and safety.
Ashley Marlin, the Chester Community Economic Development Officer, expresses her admiration for the 2SLGBTQI+ Chamber of Commerce, highlighting their steadfast commitment to empowering others, saying, "They want you to succeed. They will walk you through the process and have fantastic resources to share with you." This support and guidance from the Chamber make the accreditation journey achievable and inspiring.
"As a queer individual within the municipality, on a personal level, my hope is it will foster more support, educational opportunities, local engagement in inclusive partnerships and events and advocacy/awareness for 2SLGBTQIA+ rights," adds Rafuse
To discover more about the 2SLGBTQI+ Chamber of Commerce Rainbow Registered Accreditation Program, visit their website at https://cglcc.ca/.