2SLGBTQIA+ Inclusivity
What does the 2SLGBTQIA+ acronym mean?
“2SLGBTQIA+” stands for Two-Spirit, Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer or Questioning, Intersex, Asexual, and the + acknowledges all other gender identities and sexual orientations. “2SLGBTQIA+” is an umbrella term, and how a person identifies is unique. For example, some individuals may identify with one, a few, or several of the terms. It is essential to respect the terms that individuals prefer.
Two-Spirit (2S) is a present-day term for Indigenous people who identify as having both a feminine and a masculine spirit. It is used by Indigenous people to describe their cultural, spiritual, gender, and sexual identity. A person who is Two-Spirit may identify as LGBTQIA+, and in fact, many do.
Celebrating the gifts that come with diversity means honouring each individual for their distinct identities, inherent strengths, and resilience. Every person has a place in our circle. People who identify as part of the 2SLGBTQIA+ community are at increased risk of bullying, experiencing violence, mental health challenges, and suicide. While it is important to understand the interpersonal and systemic discrimination that 2SLGBTQIA+ individuals experience, it is equally important to recognize the strengths and resilience of those who identify as part of the 2SLGBTQIA+ community.
How can we support someone who “comes out”?
It takes strength and courage for someone to come out. It is a personal choice if someone decides to “come out” and share with others they identify as part of the 2SLGBTQIA+ community.
“Coming out is not always straightforward and can lead to mixed emotions. How others react to a person coming out can have an impact on their willingness to share with others in the future and so it is important to be aware of how to be supportiveand responsive to their needs.” - Annie Decontie (they/them), Planning, Programming, & Research Officer
- If a friend, family member, or loved one comes out, it is important to be respectful and non-judgmental and let the person know you love them no matter what.
- Rule of thumb: If you don’t have anything nice to say, don’t say anything. Wait it out. Choose your words carefully and let the person know that you are still processing the information.
- Listen attentively to what the person shares with you. Be empathetic.
- Trust the person. Don’t make assumptions or invalidate their experience.
- If someone shares this information about their identity with you, it can mean that they view you as a trustworthy person. Sharing is a personal choice, so it is important to respect confidentiality and not disclose one’s identity to others without permission.
- Ask them how you can best support them and respect their wishes.
- These discussions can sometimes occur in very difficult circumstances. If you are concerned about a person’s well-being or safety, you can provide additional support and refer them to appropriate services or resources with their consent. Crisis resources are available : Mental Health
- If you are concerned about their well-being or safety, you can provide additional support and refer them to appropriate services or resources.
- Reflect and challenge our own attitudes, biases, and assumptions about gender identity and sexual diversity.
- Educate yourself on terms like gender identity, gender expression, sexual attraction, romantic attraction, biological sex, and sex assigned at birth. Being more comfortable with what these terms mean can help us all understand each other better.
- Share your own preferred pronouns. Even if you do not identify as 2SLGBTQIA+, this can show openness and help everyone feel more comfortable using their own preferred pronouns.
- Respect and use preferred names and pronouns (examples: He/She/They/Ze). If you feel that you may be using the incorrect name or pronoun, you can ask the person privately.
- It’s okay to make mistakes! If you use an incorrect name or pronoun, you can apologize and use the correct name or pronoun moving forward. Don’t dwell too long on the mistake or over-apologize.
- Speak up and advocate for safe and affirming care and spaces for 2SLGBTQIA+ individuals.
- Engage in learning opportunities on how to support the well-being of people who identify as part of the 2SLGBTQIA+ community. Resources to learn more are included below.
Celebrating Pride in Eeyou Istchee
Many of the communities in Eeyou Istchee organize Pride activities during Pride month in June. Please consult local events calendars for more information.
Support services and resources
The Wîchihîwâuwin Helpline provides a safe space for people who need to talk on the phone about any difficult situation concerning their well-being
Phone numbers to call in a health-related emergency.
- LGBTQ Youth Phone Line | Phone: 1-800-268-9688 | Text: 647-694-4275
Youth Line offers confidential and non-judgemental peer support through our telephone, text, and chat services. Get in touch with a peer support volunteer from Sunday to Friday, 4:00 PM to 9:30 PM.
- Hope for Wellness Help Line | Phone: 855-242-3310
Hope for Wellness Helpline is available 24/7 to all Indigenous people across Canada. Whether you prefer to talk to someone on the phone or online,Hope for Wellness is there to support you anytime.
- Kids Help Phone | Phone: 1-800-668-6868 | Text: 686868
Kids Help Phone e-mental health services are available 24/7 across Canada. This means that we’re here for kids, teens, and young adults from coast to coast to coast.
