Dr. Joyce Cheung on her journey to more inclusive health care
For Dr. Joyce Cheung, marching in the Toronto Pride Parade is a chance to connect her personal values with her professional identity.
The Toronto family doctor participates each year with her wife and says the energy of the celebration is inspiring.
“There is something very powerful about seeing so many people come together publicly to celebrate inclusion, resilience and love,” she says.
The Pride Parade is the grand finale of Toronto’s month-long 2SLGBTQIA+ celebrations, which attract millions of spectators each year. The 2026 edition is set for June 28, from 2 p.m. to about 5 p.m.
A contingent of OMA members and staff will participate again this year, including Dr. Cheung.
“Being part of the parade with colleagues sends a message that 2SLGBTQIA+ patients, families and physicians belong in medicine,” she says.
Dr. Cheung adds that the parade is a reminder of the advocacy and courage that make such celebrations possible. For her personally, it is also a meaningful moment for her and her wife.
Dr. Joyce Cheung, right, and her wife Dr. Angélique Bernabé at the 2025 Toronto Pride Parade.
“It is a chance to honour our own relationship while standing alongside a broader community that continues to fight for safety, dignity and equality,” she says.
“Seeing doctors participate openly at Pride can help signal that health care should be safe, inclusive and respectful.”
Dr. Cheung says the parade is an opportunity for health-care providers to unite in solidarity with 2SLGBTQIA+ patients who deserve equal access to care.
She notes the celebration also provides visibility for 2SLGBTQIA+ medical learners, physicians and health-care workers who deserve to feel valued and supported.
“Many 2SLGBTQIA+ people have experienced stigma, dismissal or barriers in health care,” Dr. Cheung says. “Seeing doctors participate openly at Pride can help signal that health care should be safe, inclusive and respectful,” she says.
Dr. Joyce Cheung, right, with her wife Dr. Angélique Bernabé, centre, and current OMA President Dr. Rebecca Hicks, left, at the 2025 Toronto Pride Parade.
Members can sign up to participate in the OMA contingent at this year’s parade on Sunday, June 28 — family and friends are also welcome. But hurry! Spots are limited and registration is required.
On parade day, registered marchers can gather at the OMA office located at 150 Bloor St. W. for an optional 11:30 a.m. drop-in, where branded T-shirts, Pride signs and light refreshments will be available. We’ll then head to the parade staging area as a group.
Marchers can also choose to meet the contingent at the parade site. Full meetup details and timing will be shared by email.
Founded in 1981, Pride Toronto is Canada’s largest festival and the second largest Pride celebration in the world.