Latest news with #2SLGBTQIA
CTV News
21 hours ago
- General
- CTV News
Workshop being held in Windsor to assist people with the legal name and gender marker change process in Ontario
A workshop is being held in Windsor on Saturday for the 2SLGBTQIA+ community. Dana Rosamund Teagle is leading the workshop. Rosamund Teagle is a web and software developer for , a free online tool that helps navigate the legal name and gender marker change process in Ontario. The site offers guidance on required documents, fees and steps — with a focus on trans inclusion and reducing administrative barriers. Rosamund Teagle said they've been running ID clinics for teaching trans people how to change their name and gender markers in the province since 2021. 'If I can be a person who's like, hey not only have I been through this myself, I've also helped this huge pile of people go through it as well, and I think that gives people short of the confidence they need to tackle that,' says Rosamund Teagle. Rosamund Teagle said they've noticed how meaningful the workshops and website are to people. 'I really believe also very firmly in trans people helping trans people with solving trans problems whenever possible,' says Rosamund Teagle. Rosamund Teagle says it's free to attend the workshop. 'I've heard from the people who have been to these workshops and benefited from my site, that it's meant a lot to them for it to be lead by someone who is also trans themselves,' says Rosamund Teagle. The workshop begins at 6:30 p.m. at Hackforge HQ at 300 Ouellette Ave. Trans, non-binary, gender-diverse individuals and their allies are invited to connect with Rosamund Teagle and learn about the site plus have conversations about accessibility, identity and the power of self-determination. The event will include presentations, a question and answer period and open dialogue. - By Dustin Coffman, AM800
Hamilton Spectator
2 days ago
- Politics
- Hamilton Spectator
Burlington proclaims itself a ‘safe city' for 2SLGBTQIA+ community
The City of Burlington has proclaimed itself a safe city for the 2SLGBTQIA+ community, but a local resident who requested the declaration said it's just a first step. Caleb Smolenaars said while they're happy with the proclamation signed by Mayor Marianne Meed Ward on Tuesday, June 17, the city must now take action to protect the dignity, safety and human rights of the community year-round. 'As a queer Burlingtonian, I can attest that as much as the city might like to put up pride flags, anti-2SLGBTQIA+ hate is still prevalent here,' Smolenaars said. While campaigning as the NDP candidate in Oakville North-Burlington in this year's provincial election as an out, non-binary person, Smolenaars said they were threatened and told they didn't belong in their own neighbourhood. 'Slurs were directed at me on the daily,' Smolenaars said. They wrote to Burlington City Council in March this year, requesting a safe city declaration. In the request, Smolenaars noted a similar declaration had been made by Saskatoon and though it holds little legal power 'outward symbolism is important in the fight for inclusion,' while helping drive policy change, research and better advocacy. The full safe city resolution released this week is available on the City of Burlington's website . It states, in part, that 2SLGBTQIA+ people face social intolerance and systemic barriers in local communities and, according to Statistics Canada, police-reported hate crimes motivated by sexual orientation have increased over the last decade. 'The City of Burlington reaffirms its commitment to protecting the rights of 2SLGBTQIA+ communities, recognizing that work is still needed to ensure the equity and safety of these communities,' the proclamation states. Smolenaars said actions must now be taken to affirm, and prove, that Burlington truly is safe for 2SLGBTQIA+ people. 'While I'm pleased to see any action in support of the queer community, considering the widespread dismantling of diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) programs worldwide these past few months, I do wish the proclamation went further so as to commit to tangible support,' Smolenaars said. 'I will continue advocating for this because the queer community, to put it bluntly, is under attack.' Tyler Boyce, executive director of The Enchante Network — a national network of 2SLGBQTI+ organizations across Canada, said Smolenaars' experience reflects what the network is hearing from communities across the country. 'We recognize the bravery it takes to speak publicly … and we affirm the call for action at the municipal level,' Boyce said. He said safe city declarations are symbolic, but they matter — particularly in times of escalating hate and political polarization. 'A bold and clear commitment from city council can send a strong message: hate has no place here, and Burlington chooses inclusion,' he said. 'Of course, declarations must be backed by action. A key way the city can support queer residents is by increasing direct municipal funding to local 2SLGBTQI+ organizations.' Boyce said grassroots groups are best positioned to offer responsive, relevant services and supports. In addition to increased funding to local organizations, Enchante suggests the City of Burlington: Error! Sorry, there was an error processing your request. There was a problem with the recaptcha. Please try again. You may unsubscribe at any time. By signing up, you agree to our terms of use and privacy policy . This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google privacy policy and terms of service apply. Want more of the latest from us? Sign up for more at our newsletter page .
Hamilton Spectator
13-06-2025
- Hamilton Spectator
Tisdale leaders speak out after defacement of Pride crosswalk
TISDALE — Leaders in Tisdale are showing support and condemning the hate that transpired on June 12 at Tisdale Middle and Secondary School (TMSS). The TMSS True Colours GSA Club, in partnership with Suncrest College, painted the Recplex crosswalk in rainbow colours for Pride Month. This was meant to be a vibrant display and a powerful reminder that LGBTQ2S+ people are seen, respected and belong, said TMSS in a social media post the day before it was defaced with a swastika . Skid marks from a vehicle were also observed. There has been a strong wave of support for Pride Month and what it represents to community members, North East School Division (NESD) leadership and youth. Young Tisdale community member Baylee Cresswell showed her support on social media, disapproving of the vandalism. Cresswell took to social media to support those who feel targeted and to condemn the actions of the perpetrators: 'To the kids in the GSA that painted the sidewalk and any person in Tisdale that is a part of the 2SLGBTQIA+ community, I've been you, and my heart hurts for you. ... Your voice and acts are valuable and lifesaving to those who feel they cannot speak up for themselves.' Lori Kidney, NESD board chair, also responded on social media. 'The sidewalk was a beautiful and courageous student-led statement of belonging for all. Its defacement is a painful reminder that the work of building inclusive, compassionate communities must continue, and that we each have a role to play in standing up against hate,' she wrote. 'As your local trustee and as a board, we fully support the leadership of our students, school staff, and administrators who have responded with resolve, unity, and care. We also acknowledge the swift action taken by the Town of Tisdale and the RCMP in their efforts to investigate this incident and hold those responsible accountable.' Tisdale RCMP are investigating the incident involving a Pride crosswalk at a community facility on 101st Street. A hateful symbol was discovered painted over the flag between 9:45 p.m. on June 11 and 4 a.m. on June 12. Anyone with information or who may have witnessed suspicious activity in the area during that time is asked to contact Tisdale RCMP at 310-RCMP. Anonymous tips can also be submitted through Saskatchewan Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477) or online at . Error! Sorry, there was an error processing your request. There was a problem with the recaptcha. Please try again. You may unsubscribe at any time. By signing up, you agree to our terms of use and privacy policy . This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google privacy policy and terms of service apply. Want more of the latest from us? Sign up for more at our newsletter page .
CTV News
13-06-2025
- Politics
- CTV News
Sudbury Pride barring police from participating in events, issues apology to 2SLGBTQ community
While there is a need for increased security, Pride parade organizers in Sudbury have apologized for past police participation in their parade. Amid a need for increased security at Pride events across Canada, a recent decision by the Sudbury Pride organization is prohibiting police from participating in an official capacity. Many members of the 2SLGBTQIA+ community say they have been experiencing heightened intolerance and hatred in recent years while also having a complicated relationship with police. Uniformed officers not welcome Because of that, the Fierté Sudbury Pride organization recently apologized to its community members about its past choices, including allowing police participation in previous events, in a statement on social media. Fierte Sudbury Pride issues apology to 2SLGBTQ community Fierte Sudbury Pride issues apology to 2SLGBTQ community. (Supplied) Among the concrete steps organizers are taking is not permitting police in uniform to participate in any Pride events. No police in Pride Sudbury events Police officers barred from wearing uniforms at Sudbury Pride events. (Fierte Sudbury Pride) 'We have to say, 'What can we do differently to make sure everyone is kept safe and what do police do that might keep some people safe and not others,' Groom said. 'How can we backfill that? What does that actually look like? What we know is that by having people who are visible, who are present, who are observing spaces, that will really change the dynamic in a way that often police don't.' Aspen Groom, chair of Fierte Sudbury Pride Aspen Groom, chair of Fierte Sudbury Pride, speaks to CTV News outside police headquarters and Pride crosswalk. June 12, 2025 (Angela Gemmill/CTV Northern Ontario) Officers who want to participate may do so while not in uniform. Committed to rebuilding trust Although faded since it was painted last year, the Chair of Fierté Sudbury Pride calls the rainbow-coloured 'Progress Pride Crosswalk' downtown a 'compromise.' Sudbury police headquarters located near faded Pride crosswalk Sudbury police headquarters located near faded Pride crosswalk on Minto Street downtown. June 12, 2025 (Angela Gemmill/CTV Northern Ontario) It is on Minto Street close to city hall, yet steps away from headquarters for Greater Sudbury Police. 'There's elements there that we have to be mindful of and also just know that we have to do our best within the constraints that we have,' said Aspen Groom, Sudbury Pride chairperson. Greater Sudbury Police Service said it respects the group's decision and is committed to listening, learning and taking steps to build trust with marginalized communities. "We respect the right of organizers to create spaces where community members feel safe and supported," Sudbury police said in a statement about the situation. "We recognize that historical and ongoing harms have shaped the complex relationship between 2SLGBTQIA+ communities and policing. We do not take these concerns lightly. We are committed to listening, learning, and taking meaningful steps to build trust with marginalized communities, including those who have not always felt heard or protected." Sudbury police statement on Pride decision Sudbury police statement on Pride decision to exclude uniformed officers. June 12, 2025 (Greater Sudbury Police Service) Police said they remain committed to equity, inclusion, and human rights, both within the organization and within the community. 'We will continue working alongside members of the 2SLGBTQIA+ community year-round -- through outreach, education, and collaboration -- to foster safety, dignity, and belonging for all,' police added. 'Our hope is that through continued dialogue and understanding, we can build stronger, more inclusive relationships and find a path forward together. We wish Fierté Sudbury Pride safe and successful events." Changes to Pride march In order for the local Pride festival to hold a march without police involvement, Groom said they're planning for the event to travel along the sidewalk with plenty of volunteer marshals who will have training in de-escalation and community care. According to Groom, Fierté Sudbury Pride will be applying for the new permanent federal funding announced earlier this week in Ottawa meant to support security needs for Pride festivals across Canada. The total of $1.5 million is to help cover costs for safety and insurance planning. During the national flag-raising ceremony on June 10, Prime Minister Mark Carney called Pride 'a promise.' 'It's a promise to every couple who wants to show affection, to be able to hold hands in public without looking over their shoulders,' Carney told the crowd. 'It's a promise to every Canadian that they will be respected; that their rights will be protected. That you will be safe in your own community and proud in your own skin.' Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney speaks at launch of 2025 Pride Season Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney speaks at launch of 2025 Pride Season. June 10, 2025 (CPAC) During the event, the co-chair of the Canadian Pride Caucus said he looks forward to a day when there isn't hatred towards others who are different. 'Some of us dream of the day when the acronym 2SLGBTQIA+ will be replaced by these simple four letters L-O-V-E,' said Canadian Senator Rene Cormier.
CTV News
12-06-2025
- Entertainment
- CTV News
Caesars Windsor donates $10K to Pride Fest
A funding boost of $10,000 was made in support of Pride Fest by Caesars Windsor Cares. Caesars Windsor Cares celebrated Pride month with a special donation of $10,000 in support of Pride Fest. The official announcement was made by Susanne Tomkins, manager of public relations and communications with Caesars Windsor, at Lanspeary Park Wednesday afternoon. This money will directly support social programming designed to address the problem of social isolation. Those initiatives provide meaningful social engagement and participation to increase connections and overcome isolation. This is especially important to foster a welcoming and safe space for people who are age 50 and older of the two-spirit, lesbian, gay, bisexual, trans, queer, intersex and asexual adults. PRIDE WINDSOR David Lenz, left, of Windsor-Essex Pride Fest, Susanne Tomkins, manager of Communications at Caesars Windsor, and Wendy Nicholson, president Windsor Pride Fest, on June 11, 2025. (Gary Archibald/CTV News Windsor) Wendy Nicholson is the president of Windsor Pride Fest. Nicholson and her team are appreciative of all support, monetary or otherwise, to help fund programs that in turn assist those in need in the 2SLBBTQIA+ community. 'It means so much to us, just the support of Caesars Windsor,' said Nicholson. 'Also, it's going to help with our programs continue running. Without donations like this, our programs won't be able to run. And every donation we get that goes to, that comes in is very welcomed.'
