Testimonials — 2SLGBTQI+ Community Capacity Fund

"Spirit-naming is an important part of Indigenous identity and functions as an act of decolonization. Embracing the Two-Spirit name has defined our place in Indigenous history and culture. It affirms that we are spiritual beings aligned in balance with all facets of creation. The term Two-Spirit re-affirms for Indigenous LGBTQ+ people that we are linked spiritually to our families, communities and nations. This affirmation also links us to the spiritual teachings that strengthen our relationship with the natural world and spiritual dimensions. We began our Two-Spirit-specific education, outreach, and advocacy in 1986 and will continue to do so more effectively with the support from the LGBTQ2 Community Capacity Fund."

“SPECTRUM is grateful for the LGBTQ2 Community Capacity Fund and thanks the Government of Canada for its generous support in helping us build a larger and more stable organization that can better serve LGBTQ2+ people in Waterloo Region. Our new staff team has already done some excellent work in building up our capacity and we look forward to sharing updates about our progress throughout the year.”

“The Community Capacity Fund is a game changer for the Wabanaki Two-Spirit Alliance because it provides much-needed resources to consolidate as the regional organization for Two-Spirits. As a result, the Alliance can properly advocate, deliver knowledge-sharing programs, and expand its partnerships with its sister 2SLGBTQQIA+ organizations and service providers to extend their supports for Two-Spirits in the Atlantic region.”

“Rainbow Refugee and our partners in the Rainbow Coalition for Refuge form a critical safety net for refugees who have escaped sex- and gender-based persecution. The LGBTQ2 Community Capacity Fund strengthens our organizations’ foundations, and helps us grow a more robust solidarity and support network. This investment in LGBTQ2 civil society signals a new level of commitment by Canadian government to realize equity and rights. This commitment needs to continue and grow until all members of our communities can live with safety, belonging and respect.ˮ

“With this fund, YouthLine will upgrade its internal structures to train and support more peer support volunteers to meet the increased demand for our HelpLine. We will also expand our provincial presence and reach through regional networks as well as better understand and meet the needs of 2SLGBTQ+ youth in rural and Northern Ontario who often have little to no supports.”

“Trans people have been sidelined for far too long. These funds will finally bring trans voices to the forefront and meet the glaring needs for consultation and the sharing of trans knowledge and expertise. Euphorie dans le genre – Fierté trans will launch a broad consultation of trans people to take stock of the needs and concerns of trans communities.”