Charles III Coronation Medal
Awarded 2025
Nominated by the Canadian AIDS Society in recognition of three decades of advocacy work to end HIV stigma and advance the rights of 2S/LGBTQIA+ communities and people living with disabilities
Singer / songwriter
Canadian country recording artist whose debut album Get There From Here (1998) launched a career navigating authenticity and tradition in a genre not always ready for either. Known for powerful vocals and deeply personal storytelling, Patrick carved out space for honest narratives in country music while building a dedicated fanbase across Canada and the world.
Gay
One of the first openly gay male country artists in commercial music. Came out publicly in 1998, walking through doors opened by k.d. lang and holding them open for those who followed. By refusing to hide his identity while pursuing his country music career, Patrick demonstrated that queer artists belong in every genre.
Mentor
Producer and host of groundbreaking LGBTQ+ music showcases including Songbird North Pride at Pride Toronto and the first-ever LGBT independent showcase at the Junos. Has produced four major inclusive artist showcases across the Junos and CCMAs, creating unprecedented visibility for queer and diverse artists on national stages
Advocate
Bringing attention to communities too often ignored: people living with HIV, 2S/LGBTQIA+ individuals, people with disabilities. Amplifying voices, forcing change, and creating space for those whose stories deserve to be heard. Patrick uses his platform to champion systemic change and meaningful representation, to address the real barriers of marginalized communities.
