Together We Rise!

Why We Support the Bill 7 Award Trust

At our core, we believe that a just and inclusive society is something we all need to work toward. We recognize the deep inequalities that still exist today, and it’s important to us not only to avoid being part of that inequality, but also to actively support those who are working to change it.

We were introduced to the Bill 7 Award through one of our longtime supporters - someone who believed that our values aligned. As we learned more about this remarkable organization, the people it helps, and the difference these scholarships make in the lives of 2SLGBTQI+ students with financial need, our commitment only deepened.

That’s why, once again, we’re proud to support the Bill 7 Award by donating a portion of proceeds from every bottle and can of our beloved Ladybug Rosé sold, instore or online, throughout the month of June.

We’re also shining a spotlight on this cause during our popular regional wine event, Boots ’n’ Benchlands, June 14 & 15th, 2025.  At this celebration of wine, community, and good food, we’ll be raising awareness of the Bill 7 Award and encouraging everyone to support it - through direct contributions or simply by taking Ladybug home with them.

Together, we can raise our voices—and our glasses—for a more inclusive future.

More about the Bill 7 Award Trust

The Bill 7 Award Trust was established in 1987 to provide post-secondary education scholarships to 2 Spirit, Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Trans and Queer (2SLGBTQI+) students with demonstrated financial need who are pursuing a first degree, diploma or certification in any Ontario post-secondary institution.

The Bill 7 Award is named after the 1986 Ontario legislation that extended the protection of the Human Rights Code to lesbians and gays.

The Trust was founded by six community groups, predominantly led by women: the UofT Women’s Centre, the Lesbian and Gay Community Appeal (now the CommunityONE Foundation), Lesbians of Colour, The Black Women’s Collective, Zami, and the Toronto Counselling Centre for Lesbians and Gays.

Bill 7 Award held its most recent scholarship presentation event on November 4, 2024. Over 150 supporters, students and guests attended the celebration to recognize 26 very deserving recipients who each received $4500 scholarship awards.

We heard many inspiring stories of what it means to be a queer and trans student in today’s post-secondary education environment. With their touching speeches, students showed their appreciation for the support they received in pursuing their studies.

After hearing directly from the recipients of these scholarships, it’s clear that the Bill 7 Award makes a real and lasting difference. We’re proud to stand behind this important initiative and intend to continue our support for years to come.