Trans activist Rupert Raj is being honoured after more than 40 years of helping to foster a greater understanding and acceptance of the transsexual and transgendered communities in Canada.
The annual Steinert & Ferreiro Award will be presented at Community One Foundation’s 30th Anniversary Celebration on Oct 22.
This marks the first time the Steinert & Ferreiro Award has been given to a trans person in its five-year history.
Throughout his career, Raj has worn many hats, including counsellor, psychotherapist, educator, professional trainer, consultant, gender specialist, clinical researcher, writer and activist.
He currently works as a mental health counsellor at the Sherbourne Health Centre and is an active member of the Rainbow Health Network’s Trans Health Lobby Group.
The $10,000 award is Canada’s largest recognition of queer community leadership.
Previous recipients have included Rachel Epstein, Rev Brent Hawkes, El-Farouk Khaki, Bev Bain and George Hislop.
Community One Foundation’s 30th Anniversary Celebration runs from 6:30pm to 9:30pm at the Bata Shoe Museum at 327 Bloor St W. Tickets are $50. For more information, call 416-920-5422.
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