June is Pride Month; a time to celebrate members of the 2SLGBTQIA+ * community.
Building inclusive spaces goes beyond physical spaces. Fostering a diverse and inclusive environment for all communities, including 2SLGBTQIA+ helps individuals feel included, seen and welcomed.
Cultural venues have an important role to play in offering spaces that prioritize 2SLGBTQIA+ artists and communities. There are several organizations that prioritize access to space and opportunity within the 2SLGBTQIA+ community. Here are just a few great examples of spaces in Ontario!
Pride Toronto Creative Studio & Artist Residency Program
The Pride Toronto Creative Studio & Artist Residency Program was developed to address the continuously growing gap in safe and affordable Queer & Trans creative spaces after speaking first hand with 2SLGBTQIA+ communities. These spaces have been created to fill a need to reflect diverse communities, amplify marginalized artists, and give greater visibility to diverse forms of 2SLGBTQ+ creativity.
To learn more about the Pride Toronto Creative Studio and these programs, click here.
The 519
The 519 is committed to the health, happiness and full participation of the LGBTQ2S communities. A City of Toronto agency with an innovative model of Service, Space and Leadership, the 519 strives to make a real difference in peoples’ lives, while working to promote inclusion, understanding, and respect. They provide accommodating and non-judgemental space where individuals, organizations, and non-profit groups can meet, organize, and work towards their goals.
Learn more about the 519 here.
The Intergenerational LGBT Artist Residency
This program is the first intergenerational artist-in-residency program for 2SLGBTQIA+ visual artists in Canada. The residency offers studio space, travel support, and free room and board to juried applicants for the duration of the two-week residency. Residents also receive mentoring and studio visits from critically acclaimed artists and curators.
Learn about this program here.
We celebrate the work done by the amazing organizations across Ontario dedicated to creating safe, affordable, and community driven space for 2SLGBTQIA+ community members.
*We recognize that the acronym 2SLGBTQIA+ does not encompass all sexualities, gender identities, and expressions. ArtsBuild Ontario recognizes that there is a wide spectrum and are committed to making our programs and initiatives, as well as our physical space at 44 Gaukel Creative Workspace, safe and accessible for all.
