IAFF has reported that its firefighter affiliates across Canada and the United States marked June 2025’s Pride Month through a range of local initiatives.
In British Columbia, Alberta, New York and Washington, union locals created Pride-themed clothing and took part in events as a public statement of inclusion.
The International Association of Fire Fighters stated that these activities took place at the local level and were led by both individual members and union leadership.
According to IAFF, these local actions show how affiliates are building support for LGBTQ+ communities both within the fire service and among the public they serve.
The association explained that while the activities varied by region, many involved visible displays of solidarity such as uniforms, stickers or community engagement.
The IAFF reported that Local 1941 in Port Coquitlam, British Columbia, created a Pride-themed T-shirt in partnership with its charitable society.
Local 1941’s Emily Lehwald said: “Local 1941 proudly stands with Pride Month, using this T-shirt sale to reinforce our commitment to inclusivity, diversity, and equality in the fire service and community.
“Now more than ever, we’re dedicated to creating a culture where everyone feels safe and valued.”
In Alberta, Local 2130 in St. Albert launched a similar initiative, the IAFF said.
According to the association, the project was introduced by a member and adopted by leadership.
Local 2130 President Greg Harvey said: “Every member was issued a T-shirt above our normal uniform issue. It’s become a visible way for us to show support for inclusivity and for the 2SLGBTQIA+ community, both within our department and the city we serve.
“Pride is about more than a month – it’s about standing up for equality, dignity, and respect every day.”
Harvey also stated that St. Albert Mayor Cathy Heron is wearing the T-shirt in public settings.
The IAFF noted that in Buffalo, New York, Local 282 took part in the city’s annual Pride Parade.
According to the association, the decision to participate reflects the union’s commitment to community presence and equality.
Local 282 President Christopher Whelan said: “As first responders, we serve and protect all individuals, regardless of background or identity. By participating in the Pride Parade in Buffalo, we demonstrate our commitment to support everyone in our community.”
The IAFF explained that the Buffalo event was one of several public engagements taken on by members during Pride Month.
It added that such actions are increasingly visible within U.S. firefighter locals.
The IAFF reported that South County, Washington Local 1828 continued its annual display of Pride-themed union stickers.
According to the union, the practice has now been in place for over ten years.
Local 1828 President Pat Moore said: “For over a decade, our Local has proudly displayed the stickers on our apparatus during the month of June.
“We believe that every fire fighter deserves to feel respected, represented, and safe within our profession.
“Solidarity means showing up for one another – and that includes honoring and uplifting our diverse union family.”
The IAFF said the stickers have become symbolic within the local and represent a broader culture of acceptance.
The IAFF emphasized that each of these initiatives was developed at the local level by members and their union representatives.
It noted that while there is no uniform campaign across North America, affiliates are independently choosing how to show support.
According to the IAFF, these actions align with the broader goals of promoting safety, representation and visibility for LGBTQ+ members of the fire service.
The association explained that public-facing initiatives such as Pride-themed apparel and participation in parades help reinforce these values.
It added that the participation of local governments, such as the Mayor of St. Albert, further connects these efforts to the wider community.
IAFF reported that firefighter affiliates across Canada and the U.S. took part in Pride Month activities in June 2025.
In Port Coquitlam, British Columbia, Local 1941 sold Pride-themed T-shirts to support a local LGBTQ+ group.
In St. Albert, Alberta, Local 2130 issued similar shirts to all members, with city officials also taking part.
Buffalo Local 282 marched in the city’s Pride Parade as a public show of support.
South County, Washington Local 1828 continued its annual tradition of placing Pride-themed union stickers on apparatus.
Each initiative was created at the local level by union members.
IAFF stated that these actions demonstrate commitment to inclusion within the fire service.
The association said the initiatives promote visibility, safety and representation for LGBTQ+ firefighters.
It added that these public expressions of support connect the fire service with the broader communities they serve.
