A student who successfully advocated to add gender-affirming care coverage to Kwantlen Student Association’s (KSA) health and dental plan has been recognized for their efforts.
Destiny Lang received the Pride Advocacy Student Award established by Kwantlen Polytechnic University’s (KPU) Pride Advocacy Group Co-Chairs Shalini Vanan and Romy Kozak. The award is presented to students who self-identify and have shown commitment to 2SLGBTQIA+ activism at KPU or in their own communities.
At KPU, Lang works as a Pride Peer Leader and participates in the Pride Advocacy Group and the Pride Society. In the past, they served as the KSA’s Queer Students Representative and helped organize the Disabilityverse advocacy group for students with disabilities.
“Destiny’s efforts as the Queer Students Representative are the main reason KPU students’ health insurance now covers gender-affirming care, so they are exceptionally well-deserving of this award,” says Kozak.
Lang is a third-year Bachelor of Design in Fashion and Technology student at the Wilson School of Design in Richmond. Their advocacy journey began as a student leader with the Sexuality and Gender Acceptance Club at J.N. Burnett Secondary School in Richmond, and with Richmond School District’s Sexual Orientation and Gender Identity Advisory Committee
“My supportive peers, teachers and role models helped amplify my voice to promote an inclusive and equitable learning environment for staff and students alike,” says Lang.
“The Pride Advocacy Award is an undeniable reminder of how important it is to keep advocating for the 2SLGBTQIA+ community. Queer individuals have to fight especially hard for human rights, not only to get them but also to ensure they’re not taken away.”
Now, Lang is working with a nationwide group of transgender activists advocating for increased gender-affirming care coverage for post-secondary students.
“I hope that by sharing my story and journey into advocacy, more students can feel inspired and more comfortable taking on a leadership role,” says Lang. “We need to keep up the good fight.”
Earlier this year, Lang received KPU’s Justice, Equity, Diversity and Inclusion Award in recognition of their gender-affirming advocacy.
“Destiny actively works towards dismantling barriers, ensuring that all voices are heard and respected,” says Trina Prince, Manager of Culture and Wellbeing in the Office of Equity and Inclusive Communities at KPU.
“Their unwavering commitment to creating an inclusive space has made a significant impact, making Destiny a true champion for gender inclusion.”
Lang was one of 13 students to receive the Pride Advocacy Student Award this year. Since its launch in 2021, 24 students have received the award. This year, the awards were funded by the Office of Equity and Inclusive Communities.