Our Supporters
Honoring the Legacy of Liav Gold through a Transformational Gift from Jake Gold
The Tegan and Sara Foundation is honored to recognize a generous multi-year donation from Jake Gold, one of Canada’s most accomplished artist managers and a passionate advocate for equity and inclusion. This gift, made in memory of his sister, Liav Gold, will help expand access to affirming, identity-centered summer camp experiences for 2SLGBTQ+ youth across Canada.
Liav was a true trailblazer. In 1994, at a time when there were no same-sex benefits in Canada and long before the legalization of same-sex marriage, Liav and her partner welcomed their son. Despite being a dedicated employee of the British Columbia government, she was denied benefits because her family didn’t fit the system’s narrow legal definition. Liav refused to accept this injustice. She took the provincial government to court, courageously challenging the status quo from within the very institution she worked for. Her case was precedent-setting: the proceedings began in 1994 and concluded in 1995, a full decade before same-sex marriage was legalized in Canada—a milestone that just recently celebrated its twentieth anniversary.
Liav’s determination and courage not only created change for her own family, but also helped reshape how same-sex families are recognized across the country. Her legal battle was a critical step in the broader movement for equality, paving the way for future victories—including the eventual legalization of same-sex marriage. Without cases like Liav’s, it is unlikely that Canada would have achieved marriage equality when it did.
Jake’s gift ensures Liav’s legacy continues to ripple outward. His support will directly fund our 2SLGBTQ+ Summer Camp Grant program through “camperships” that enable queer youth—particularly those facing financial or geographic barriers—to attend camps where they can feel seen, safe, and celebrated. These experiences are life-changing, especially at a time when queer and trans youth are being increasingly targeted. Camp offers a rare space where young people can build confidence, leadership skills, and lasting community.
This gift is not only a tribute to Liav’s life and values—it’s a reflection of Jake’s ongoing commitment to making Canada a more inclusive place. Throughout his decades-long career, Jake Gold has helped shape Canadian music and culture as the longtime manager of The Tragically Hip and a judge on Canadian Idol, among many other accomplishments. He continues to lead, advocate, and give back—through his leadership in the music industry, his service on numerous boards, and now, through this meaningful investment in queer youth.
We are deeply grateful to Jake for honoring Liav’s powerful legacy—and for helping ensure more 2SLGBTQ+ youth have access to spaces where they can be fully themselves.
