Rainbow Registered Residential Rental
Canada now has its first Rainbow Registered residential rental building, an important and forward-thinking milestone in Canada’s housing landscape. Let’s explore what that means for renters, the 2SLGBTQI+ community, and how inclusive moves like this are changing Toronto’s rental market.
What Does Rainbow Registered Mean?
The Rainbow Registered accreditation is a national initiative led by Canada’s 2SLGBTQI+ Chamber of Commerce (CGLCC), in partnership with Tourism HR Canada. The program sets a high bar by assessing an organization’s:
- Inclusive policies and operational standards
- Staff training in real-world allyship and respectful communication
- Clear frameworks for pronoun usage, bias reduction, and belonging
- Permanent, year-round initiatives to foster community engagement
When you spot the Rainbow Registered logo on a building or business, it signals a real commitment to creating a respectful, diverse, safe, and thriving environment for 2SLGBTQI+ individuals and allies.
Story of Midtown Toronto: Trailblazing Change
Located at 73 and 75 Broadway Avenue in midtown Toronto, the Story of Midtown Toronto is the first residential rental building in Canada to receive Rainbow Registered accreditation. Here’s what this means in concrete terms:
✅ Inclusive Policies and Staff Training
Hazelview Properties, the developer, implemented mandatory training on pronoun usage, unconscious bias, inclusive communication, and other aspects of allyship.
✅ Community and Belonging
The building offers on-site events such as paint nights and social gatherings, plus a paid volunteer day for employees working in inclusive initiatives.
✅ Perks That Matter
Residents benefit from complimentary access to tele-health through Maple Healthcare and free memberships to amenities such as Peloton bikes.
✅ Consistent Accountability
Hazelview will re-evaluate and renew its accreditation annually, extending the same inclusive standard across its broader GTA portfolio.
Why This Matters in Toronto Today
1. Creating Safer Spaces
Queer renters, especially 55-plus singles, often face spatial invisibility and financial stress. This building offers a model of respect and comfort.
2. Setting a New Standard
As the first of its kind, Story of Midtown encourages other landlords and developers to follow suit, helping the rental industry embrace real diversity.
3. More Goes into Leasing Than Brick and Mortar
In today’s Toronto rental scene, inclusivity, amenity access, and community connection are as essential as the finishes and layouts.
4. Serving Broader Market Needs
Toronto’s rental market, especially higher-end midtown properties, is pushing toward differentiation. Inclusive credentials like Rainbow Registered add long-term appeal.
How This Affects You as a Renter
🔍 Greater Clarity When Searching
A Rainbow Registered badge on a listing shows that the landlord values inclusion and has taken tangible steps to ensure it.
🏘 More Than Just Living Space
This building offers a sense of community and belonging, something not every condo or apartment provides.
💸 Long-Term Value
Tenants in inclusive, well-run buildings tend to stay longer. That boosts rental stability and quality-of-life outcomes for residents.
A Strong Signal for the Future
Hazelview has already announced plans to expand the accreditation to its other Toronto properties and corporate offices . This isn’t a one-off; it’s early momentum toward a truly equitable rental market in Toronto and across Canada.
What Homebuyers and Renters Should Know
- Renters: Look for inclusive certifications like Rainbow Registered. It signals a well-managed, respectful building culture.
- Homebuyers: If you’re buying a condo or house, consider the surrounding rental inventory. An inclusive building nearby may support property values and attract long-term residents.
Final Thoughts
The launch of Canada’s first Rainbow Registered residential rental is more than a PR move. It sets a benchmark for how buildings should be run. For renters, it means unprecedented clarity, respect, and community. For the market, it signals a bold shift toward inclusive housing.
🌟 Work With a Realtor Who Cares
At Sean Mayers Real Estate, I stay ahead of the curve. Whether you are looking to rent in an inclusive building, buy a condo, or sell your home, I bring a deep understanding of Toronto’s evolving market—one that values diversity, community, and quality.
Reach out to me today for guidance on finding your next rental or your forever home. Let’s create a future where every space feels truly welcoming.
