March 4, 2025
At Egale Canada, we understand that advancing the rights and inclusion of 2SLGBTQI people and communities demands strong leadership, unwavering commitment, and a bold, forward-looking vision. As conversations about 2SLGBTQI inclusion expand, so too do the challenges, as shifting social and political dynamics introduce new complexities that exacerbate the risks of rising hate.
In this evolving landscape, our mission has never been more critical. We must work collectively to protect and improve the lives of 2SLGBTQI individuals, confront rising hate on multiple fronts (i.e. racism, Islamophobia, and anti-immigrant discourses), and uplift diverse 2SLGBTQI communities both in Canada and globally.
In support of this mission, the Egale Board of Directors is excited to announce that Helen Kennedy will transition from her role as Executive Director into a new position as Managing Director where she will lead essential conversations about the implications of navigating a changing political climate for 2SLGBTQI communities. This role will be key in confronting the increasing hate and misinformation threatening the rights of diverse trans and queer communities.
“Helen Kennedy has been a tireless advocate and a courageous leader for 2SLGBTQI communities for 18 years at Egale and throughout her lifetime, championing our rights not just in Canada but across the globe,” said Jacki Lewis, President of Egale Canada. “Her expertise in shifting the discourse around inclusion, while taking a stand against the rise in hate and continuously bringing forward bold innovative solutions to some of the most pressing needs in our communities, has significantly impacted Egale’s growth and success. As Executive Director, Helen guided the organization through some of the most challenging periods for inclusion in Canada and around the world. With rising opposition to human rights and the growing wave of hate targeting marginalized groups, Helen’s new role will be pivotal in countering these forces, strengthening national dialogue, and providing organizations with the tools needed to build truly inclusive spaces. We are deeply grateful for her contributions and are excited to continue our work together in this new capacity.”
As Helen transitions, the Egale Board is actively seeking a visionary new Executive Director to propel Egale’s mission forward. This leader will steer Egale’s strategic direction, expand its impact, and continue to champion the rights of 2SLGBTQI people, particularly in the face of rising hate, ensuring that the organization remains a powerful force for equity, inclusion, and justice in Canadian workplaces, schools, and communities.
📢 Interested in leading this work? The Executive Director job posting is now live—learn more at egale.ca/executive-director.