Healthy Communities • Y Stories • YMCA Volunteers
Y Pride: Joshua’s Story
26 June 2019 - by YMCA of Greater Toronto
At the Y, we believe diversity makes our community stronger. We see that strong community come together to celebrate special events like Pride, but we also see it every day when we Sweat For Good and stand behind belonging, inclusion, and being your authentic self. We asked Joshua, a long-time Health and Fitness staff member, what that means to him.
Here’s what Joshua had to say:
From the outside, the Y looks like any other fitness facility. When you enter, you discover something entirely different.
Being queer is beautiful, but fitting in, feeling safe, and being accepted is not always a reality in our society. Often, those who are different — whether it be because of race, gender, sexual orientation, age, or size — are ostracized in our world.
But at the Y, it’s quite the opposite. Diversity is celebrated; it’s the fuel that makes our communities stronger.
Over the last 7 years, the Y has taught me more about myself and my community than I could have ever imagined. I learned to love myself and to embrace those who accept me. And I learned that when we support each other, we can accomplish great things.
By nature, we are unique and diverse, and that’s worth celebrating. This year, as we rally around the colours and diversity of Pride, show compassion and love to those you see, and enjoy what we share as a community.
Joshua Broad has worked and volunteered with the YMCA for 7 years in aquatics and camps. He’s championed several Pride events at the YMCA and volunteers his time with ACT, working towards HIV advocacy, community outreach, and harm reduction.
Here’s what Joshua had to say:
From the outside, the Y looks like any other fitness facility. When you enter, you discover something entirely different.What’s beautiful about the Y is that it’s a place for everyone.
Being queer is beautiful, but fitting in, feeling safe, and being accepted is not always a reality in our society. Often, those who are different — whether it be because of race, gender, sexual orientation, age, or size — are ostracized in our world.
But at the Y, it’s quite the opposite. Diversity is celebrated; it’s the fuel that makes our communities stronger.
Over the last 7 years, the Y has taught me more about myself and my community than I could have ever imagined. I learned to love myself and to embrace those who accept me. And I learned that when we support each other, we can accomplish great things.We can be a voice for those who can’t speak up, and provide a safer space for those who don’t have one.
By nature, we are unique and diverse, and that’s worth celebrating. This year, as we rally around the colours and diversity of Pride, show compassion and love to those you see, and enjoy what we share as a community.
Joshua Broad has worked and volunteered with the YMCA for 7 years in aquatics and camps. He’s championed several Pride events at the YMCA and volunteers his time with ACT, working towards HIV advocacy, community outreach, and harm reduction. 
