CFA Pride helps members to thrive

The March, which runs as part of the Midsumma Festival, is an opportunity to proudly demonstrate our commitment and support to the LGBTQAI+ community and to reaffirm our position as an inclusive and welcoming organisation. 

A number of CFA members took part in the event alongside our emergency service colleagues, marching to support our LGBTQAI+ colleagues, friends and family members. 

CFA General Manager – Infrastructure Services Paul Santamaria was one of these participants.  

“CFA is a leading organisation in the community, and being a leader in our organisation means it’s important to show how CFA works to embrace and include all members of CFA and the communities we serve,” he said. 

“We’re made up of so many different people from so many different identities and it’s so important to make CFA a welcoming and inclusive space for everyone.” 

Paul said events such as Midsumma Pride March are a great opportunity to learn and network. 

“Taking part in events such as these are a great way to meet people from across the state, and also from our emergency services partner organisations,” he said. 

“It’s really important to me that I continue to learn from people with different identities, backgrounds and histories – it makes us a more inclusive organisation.” 

Paul said all of us can work toward creating a safer and more inclusive CFA by being willing to learn. 

“We can be better allies to the LGBTQAI+ community by being willing to listen and engage, being willing to have a conversation and learn a bit more than you didn’t know the day before. 

“It helps you develop as a person and helps you to build a shared learning and understanding, and helps others feel supported and included.” 

CFA aims to create and maintain a safe, respectful and inclusive environment that enables all people to reach their full potential and thrive. To find out more about CFA’s work in the diversity and inclusion space, visit our website.