February has been one frenetic ride, hasn’t it folks?
As we celebrate Black History Month, I’ve been researching Black 2SLGBTQIA+ Canadians, like Jackie Shane, Faith Nolan, Ravyn Wngz and Angela Robertson, who’ve all made incredible impacts on Canada. The resounding message that I continue to come across is one of community, love and resilience. In the words of Jackie Shane “When you’re different people are not sure how to approach you, so what I’ve done is, I’ve loved them first. I had to.” So let’s remember to come from a place of love to all as we continue to advocate for inclusion, dignity and equity for all, regardless of gender or sexual orientation.
This Month’s newsletter is packed full of information on volunteer opportunities, Trans Day of Visibility updates, an introduction to one of our partners and an important message from our President, Wilbur Turner.
A Message From Our President
As we witness the ramped-up oppression of trans people south of the border, it is increasingly evident that the fight for queer rights is far from over — and, unfortunately, similar sentiments are echoing within some Canadian political circles. From municipal governments defunding queer spaces, like the small library in Valleyview, Alberta, to groups like “Awake in the Cariboo” pushing for Pride flags to be banned in 100 Mile House, we see disturbing efforts to marginalize and divide us.
But let’s be clear: the progress we’ve made for queer rights, and the acceptance we’ve worked so hard for, is not to be taken for granted. These actions, though unsettling, are not a reflection of the values that most Canadians hold dear. In fact, the overwhelming majority of Canadians are progressive and stand for inclusion, dignity, and respect for all, regardless of gender or sexual orientation.
It is now, more than ever, that we must band together as a community. We cannot let fear-mongering and divisive rhetoric define who we are as a nation. We must resist the harmful forces trying to turn us against each other, to use vulnerable communities as punching bags for political gain.
At Advocacy Canada, we believe in the power of positive education strategies to shift perspectives. We must ensure that our fellow citizens understand that while their rights may seem safe for now, any erosion of rights for one group jeopardizes the freedoms of all. These attacks on the queer community are not isolated events; they are part of a broader, coordinated effort to undermine equality and justice for everyone.
We are called upon to stand on guard for Canada — for all Canadians, including those most marginalized. We cannot afford to be passive. Let’s move forward with pride, strength, and the unshakeable belief that when we fight for one another, we fight for everyone.
In solidarity,
Wilbur Turner
Trans Day of Visibility – Together in Celebration: Unbreakable in Solidarity
Kelowna’s 3rd annual Trans Day of Visibility on March 31 at 6 PM at The Laurel Packinghouse! This year’s theme is Together in Celebration: Unbreakable in Solidarity. Enjoy inspiring speeches, including a keynote from trans advocate Marni Panas, and performances by local trans artists.
We’re committed to accessibility with entry by donation, ensuring no one is turned away due to financial constraints. Food and beverages will be provided, directly addressing food insecurity.
We are on the hunt for performers for the event. If you or someone you know is skilled in:
- Poets/spoken word/story telling
- Drag
- Voguing/ballroom
- Comedy
We encourage you to fill out the expression of interest.
Attention business owners! We are seeking In Kind donations of non-alcoholic beverages, food items, door prizes/giveaways for the event. Contact us for more information. You can also make corporate or individual monetary donations here.
We’re Actively Recruiting Volunteers For Our Board
We are searching for volunteers for two empty seats on the Board of Directors. We seek passionate individuals from all backgrounds, particularly those with experience in: Advocacy, Finance, Governance, Law, Nonprofit board roles.
Whether you identify as part of the 2SLGBTQIA+ community or are a strong ally, your perspective is invaluable. Ideally, candidates will be located in the Central Okanagan to attend in-person meetings and events. Contact us here.
Not a Member?
Become a member today or consider making a donation to help us achieve our advocacy efforts and don’t forget to check out our events page to stay up to date on upcoming events.
Partner Spotlight
We Are Allies is a learning and awareness campaign funded by Health Canada based on positive, research-based themes about gender diversity and gender-affirming care for young people. People across Canada can access the We Are Allies website and social media accounts on Instagram, Facebook, TikTok and LinkedIn to:
- Hear voices and stories of people with direct experience from many backgrounds.
- Check out research-based resources on key topics created by researchers.
- Learn about misinformation; how misinformation impacts youth, their families and care providers; and how to spot and deal with misinformation.
The initial campaign and resources were launched last year, and we are pleased to share new resources, focused on increasing accessibility and relevancy to francophone audiences, that will be launching this spring.
IN Magazine’s January/February 2025 issue is here!
If you missed the latest issue, this edition features an exclusive interview with the legendary Melissa Etheridge, who opens up about her psychic songwriting, transformative tour, and the importance of recording queer history.
- Dive into more exciting 2SLGBTQI+ stories to kick of 2025:
- A heart-to-heart with queer Canadian heartthrob Samer Salem
- JJ Wright explores queer and trans sexual joy
- Mekahel on his new dance anthem “Last Time”
- 14 must-watch LGBTQ+ rom-coms
Download a FREE copy of the January/February 2025 issue.
IN Magazine is our national 2SLGBTQI+ media partner.
We can’t wait to see many of you at Pink Shirt Day on February 26th. Thank you to all who purchased our pink You Belong shirts for themselves, their families and their businesses!
Until next time,
Amber Hall – Director of Communications
