May 17 is the International Day Against Homophobia, Transphobia, and Biphobia – an opportunity to draw attention to the violence and discrimination experienced by those in the 2SLGBTQIA+ community. Around the world, including North America, we have seen increasing levels of hatred directed towards transgender and queer people. It is more important than ever for individuals and organizations to take a stand, to create safer spaces for 2SLGBTQIA+ individuals, and to commit to the important work of allyship.
Our company, Rainbow Allyship, provides education about the 2SLGBTQIA+ community. We believe that education is the key to combating ignorance, creating safer spaces, and empowering people to become active allies, advocates, and accomplices within their communities.
If you belong to an organization, workplace, church, or school, we encourage you to check out our various programming opportunities. This includes customizable Allyship Training with both basic programs and specializations, Inclusivity Audits for those who want to ensure paperwork and policies are trans and queer-inclusive, and a Speakers Bureau that features motivational speakers from the trans and queer community sharing their lived experiences. If you are interested in booking any of these opportunities, we invite you to visit our website to make a request, or send us an email for more information. If you are planning to book a program during Pride Month (June), please reach out as soon as possible, as spots are filling up quickly!
Additionally, we offer public programs for individuals who are interested in learning more about the 2SLGBTQIA+ community, pronouns, and allyship. We are also offering two specializations: one the week of May 22nd for those who identify as people of faith (Rainbow Churches) and one at the end of June for those who have 2SLGBTQIA+ loved ones (Rainbow Families). All public programs occur weekday evenings through Zoom during the month of June and are open for anyone to join – admission is by donation. You can register on our website or through email.
Everyone has a role to play in building safer spaces. Those in the 2SLGBTQIA+ community need such spaces where they can feel included and affirmed. Our programming is designed to support those who want to become active allies, advocates, and supporters to the 2SLGBTQIA+ community – regardless of whether you are just beginning this journey, or well-engaged in this life-saving work. We hope that you will consider joining our movement by booking a program or participating in our public workshops.
The Synod staff of the Anglican Diocese of New Westminster will be welcoming the folks from Rainbow Allyship for a workshop this coming September.
Promotional materials are available for downloading below