A Midtown Toronto property is the first to receive a Rainbow Registered accreditation for a rental building in Canada…
A building in Toronto’s midtown neighbourhood is making history this Pride Month becoming the first Rainbow Registered rental residence in Canada to receive the accreditation. Operated by Hazelview Properties, the Story of Midtown Toronto building at 73/75 Broadway Ave. received the honour for its commitment to inclusivity.
The Rainbow Registered accreditation, an initiative by the Canadian 2SLGBTQI+ Chamber of Commerce (CGLCC) with the support of Tourism HR Canada and the federal government, is given to businesses and organizations that meet a series of standards that make 2SLGBTQI+ people feel welcome.
The property received the honour after exhibiting its commitment to foster an inclusive environment for all residents. This commitment is brought to life through Hazelview’s “Belonging Initiatives,” annually reviewed policies supporting allteam members as well as staff training on 2SLGBTQI+ inclusion, pronoun usage, inclusive language and unconscious bias.
“Earning the Rainbow Registered accreditation for Story of Midtown Toronto is a proud milestone that reflects our dedication to creating safe, welcoming spaces where everyone feels a true sense of belonging,” Jasmin Pirani, Partner, Marketing and Social Impact said in a press release. “This recognition reaffirms our promise to foster communities that celebrate diversity and prioritize the well-being of all residents.”
“Inclusion must be built into every aspect of the communities…”
The property, now listed in the Rainbow Registered directory, allows for prospective tenants to easily identify an inclusive space to live. The first-of-its-kind accreditation will hopefully inspire other development and property management organizations to seek registration to help 2SLGBTQI+ people find inclusive housing.
“This milestone reflects a powerful commitment to inclusive housing—one where 2SLGBTQI+ residents are not just welcomed, but meaningfully supported,” said Connor McKiggan, National Business Development Manager, CGLCC in a press release. “By embedding equity into its policies, training, and everyday operations, Hazelview is setting a new standard for what it means to build community. We’re proud to stand alongside them as they lead by example.”
In an Instagram post announcing the accreditation, Hazelview Properties also said, “This milestone reflects our belief that inclusion must be built into every aspect of the communities we develop and operate.” Story of Midtown Toronto is currently the only business or organization in the area listed in the directory.
Size doesn’t matter for this accreditation…
The national accreditation program was announced during Pride Month 2021 as a way to recognize institutions who provide inclusive and welcoming spaces for the queer community. Any business or organization, no matter industry or size, can apply to be accredited.
Successful applicants must meet standards in four criteria categories to be included. The categories include policies and practices, training, commitment to inclusive leadership and culture of inclusivity. Those who meet the standards are allowed to use the Rainbow Registered logo and are placed in the directory with other businesses. The program is a time-limited recognition valid for three years and businesses must prove they are continuing to meet the standards outlined by CGLCC in order to maintain it.
To date over 400 businesses and organizations across 10 provinces and one territory have been registered including restaurants, bars, retailers, museums, entertainment venues, tourism boards, accommodations and more. You can explore the full list of accredited businesses at the Rainbow Registered directory.
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