The NATO Association of Canada, the Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) & Spaces are partnering to produce an event that explores the experiences of LGBTQ2I+ military members, with a specific focus on the transgender perspective in uniform and inclusivity within the CAF. This panel will explore the action plans for cultural change within the CAF, the milestones achieved as well as some of the continuing challenges being addressed by Canada’s military as we work to become an organization that fights for the rights of all.
Taking place on June 27th from 6:00 p.m. to 9:30 p.m., this event will feature plenty of opportunity for discussion. We look forward to seeing you there!
Speakers
Dr. Karen Davis is a retired Royal Canadian Navy Lieutenant-Commander and the senior scientist for leadership and culture within Military Personnel Command. She served in the military for 22 years, and has conducted research on military human resource challenges for over 25 years, including her PhD dissertation, Negotiating Gender in the Canadian Forces, 1970-1999. Karen is currently the co-chair of a NATO Research Task Group on the Integration of Women into Ground Combat Units.
Major Kathryn Foss, CD BSc MEng, has been a member of the CAF since 1987, and has been advocating for LGBTQ2I+ rights for over 30 years. She is currently employed within Military Personnel Command and is one of the CAF’s Positive Space Ambassadors.
Sergeant Kristina S. Melvin, BSc CD, is a CAF Medical Technician who has served in Sierra Leone, Bosnia and Afghanistan. She is an advisor on the CAF Military Personnel Instruction on the Administration of Gender Identity and Gender Expression, and a mentor and coach to transitioning CAF members.