About the Founder

About the Founder

My name is Garrick Pattenden, and my journey is a testament to the power of change and the triumph of love over hate.

I began my life harboring intense prejudice against anyone who wasn’t straight. This bias persisted even through my successful medical career, including significant years at BC Children’s Hospital in Vancouver.

The turning point came when I read Joy, to the World by Kai Shappley and Lisa Bunker. This book profoundly moved me, revealing the deep struggles of transgender individuals and inspiring me to confront and unlearn my ingrained biases. This experience ignited a journey of self-reflection, empathy, and transformation.

Fueled by a new understanding, I established the Unity and Pride Network, an organization devoted to advocating for and empowering the LGBTQ+ community across North America. Our work focuses on education, advocacy, and community engagement, striving to create a world where everyone is accepted and supported.

My philosophy is simple yet powerful: "Hate is Wrong! But Love always Wins!" This belief drives my commitment to fostering inclusive and supportive environments. I share my story openly, acknowledging my past prejudices and celebrating the transformative power of love and empathy. Through honesty and dedication, I aim to inspire others to embrace change and support one another, proving that it is never too late to evolve and make a positive impact.

Every person has a story. Mine is about moving from hatred to understanding, from prejudice to advocacy, and from isolation to community. I hope my journey encourages others to reflect on their own beliefs and join me in creating a more inclusive world.

As a retired Doctor of Medicine specializing in General and Emergency Medicine, my medical career was marked by significant years at BC Children’s Hospital in Vancouver. This rich history of providing critical care and support deeply influences my passion for helping people. This passion is evident in every aspect of the Unity and Pride Network, which I founded with a vision for a more inclusive world. My commitment to advocating for and supporting the LGBTQ+ community remains unwavering, fueled by empathy and dedication.

My journey has also led me to question and ultimately step away from organized religion. Throughout my life, I encountered numerous religious teachings that claimed to have a direct line to "God," and often these teachings instilled fear rather than understanding. I struggled with the messages that labeled my actions and existence as inherently sinful and condemned me to eternal punishment. This experience fostered a deep sense of disillusionment with religious institutions. I believe that all religious teachings are dogma and dogmatic thinking and writings, which has led to my secular approach.

As a result, I chose a path that embraces inclusivity and rejects judgment. At Unity and Pride Network and Camp Unity and Pride, we celebrate and respect the diverse religious beliefs and philosophies of life that our community members bring. We are a secular organization, welcoming individuals from all walks of life, ensuring a supportive and inclusive environment for everyone. Our mission is to foster unity and pride, irrespective of one's personal faith or belief system.

As detailed in my blog post, Standing Strong: A Heterosexual Ally’s Pledge to the LGBTQ+ Community, my pledge to support the LGBTQ+ community is driven by the recognition of the importance of allies in promoting equality and combating discrimination. I emphasize the need for continuous learning, empathy, and active participation in advocacy efforts, underscoring my commitment to standing in solidarity with LGBTQ+ individuals and raising awareness for their rights. My story is a testament to the impact of personal growth and the unwavering belief that love always wins.

Watch this video for a laugh and to hear why I retired from the medical field. Watch Now

What I Do

• Education and Training: We provide workshops, online courses, and seminars aimed at educating the public and supporting the community. Our "Understanding Gender: A Transgender 101 Guide" series is a cornerstone of our educational efforts.

• Advocacy Campaigns: We focus on raising awareness, driving policy changes, and ensuring that the voices of the transgender and LGBTQ+ community are heard. We actively campaign for legislative changes and provide tools for individuals to advocate for their rights.

• Support and Resources: Our resources include legal guides, mental health support, and educational materials tailored to assist individuals and families within the LGBTQ+ spectrum. We aim to provide comprehensive support for our community.

• Community Stories: We highlight personal stories of resilience and advocacy to inspire and educate others.

• Events and Community Engagement: We organize events to foster engagement and support, providing opportunities for learning, networking, and mutual support.

• By offering these services, Unity and Pride Network aims to empower LGBTQ+ individuals, raise awareness, and drive positive change in society.

Volunteer?

Join us in our mission to support and uplift the LGBTQ+ community through various volunteer opportunities.

Contact Me

You may contact me via the contact form.