October 1st Marks the Start of 2SLGBTQIA+ History Month
October 1st marks the start of 2SLGBTQIA+ History Month, first celebrated in 1994 to recognize 2SLGBTQIA+ history and the gay rights movement. This month is a time to honour the contributions of 2SLGBTQIA+ people and allies, reflect on progress, and continue the conversation about equal human rights. In Canada, October was chosen to align with National Coming Out Day on October 11th.
For our school district, this month is an opportunity to celebrate diversity and reaffirm our commitment to safe, inclusive learning spaces for every student. We value the diverse voices within our schools and continue to unwaveringly support SOGI-inclusive education so that all students and families feel seen and represented.
In February 2024, students in the Brooks Secondary GSA (Gender and Sexuality Alliance) introduced Intersex-Inclusive Progress Pride Flags at every school. Today, these flags continue to serve as a visible reminder that everyone in our community is welcome and supported, no matter their sexual orientation, gender identity, or expression.
qathet School District is also part of the Sexual Orientation and Gender Identity (SOGI) Educator Network, which provides resources to help ensure that all qSD schools are inclusive and safe spaces where students are free to explore their interests and opportunities regardless of gender, and where every student’s sexual orientation and their understanding and expression of gender are welcomed without discrimination.
Did you know…
Egale Canada’s national report, Still in Every Class in Every School, shows that 2SLGBTQIA+ students still face homophobia, biphobia, and transphobia at school. That’s why it’s more important than ever for everyone in the school community to come together to create safer and more affirming spaces for 2SLGBTQIA+ students.
“Every supportive adult can be a vital resource when supporting Two Spirit, Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Trans, Queer, and Intersex (2SLGBTQIA+) youth. Taking on the active role of an affirming adult can be vitally important compared to other lukewarm tolerances 2SLGBTQIA+ youth may encounter. Healthy and affirming conditions must be fostered actively, and in doing so, all youth, regardless of identity, will benefit.”
Key principles:
Reinforce rights and denormalize violence and harm
Be explicit about your support
Commit to continuous learning
Foster optimal conditions for self-development
Recognize your influence, both direct and indirect
Receive feedback with humility and accountability
Sourced from EGALE. Visit egale.ca for more resources and information.
Additional Resources
Trans Lifeline | 1-877-330-6366
Youth Space | 778-783-0177
EGALE: Faith and 2SLGBTQIA+ Youth Facilitating Courageous Conversations
Supporting Trans, Two-Spirit, and Non-Binary Youth
EGALE: Adults Supporting 2SLGBTQI Youth
Full of information, first-person stories, and expert input geared to those who have a loved one who has come out as trans or gender expansive: https://pflag.org/resource/our-trans-loved-ones/