To call Brigitte Laverdure a lifesaver is no exaggeration. That’s exactly what many Veterans in Canada’s LGBTQ community consider her.
For a 20-year period in the late 1900s, members of the military were subject to a government policy which did not allow non-heterosexuals in the Canadian Forces. Several gay and lesbian members were discharged or quit during that period.
Decades later, several of these men and women were suffering with mental health issues, feeling isolated and even suicidal. Many were struggling with their identity as Veterans. Brigitte reached out when they needed someone most, and was there to listen, understand and help.
Many of these Veterans received or are currently receiving guidance and support from Brigitte through "Victims of CFAO 19-20 in Quebec", a group she established, as well as through her peer support work with Veterans UN-NATO Canada.
Brigitte reaches out to Veterans, especially those she served with during the time of the ban. She assists them with filling out the required paperwork to access Veterans Affairs Canada benefits and continues to check in with them to ensure they are doing okay. Brigitte selflessly and tirelessly works with these women until they receive the support and the recognition of service they deserve as Canadian Veterans.
In the bigger picture, her support group has called upon the Government of Canada to issue a formal apology and provide psychological and financial help to gay (LGBTQ2+) Veterans who served during that period.