It’s understandable to worry about coming across as awkward, or being seen as cringeworthy. But embracing our cringey selves can improve our self-confidence and even our dating lives.
Living in a tolerant and accepting society means being able to define ourselves on our own terms, without the state passing judgment on how we chose to do it.
(Shutterstock)
Society should embrace various sources of sexual self-definition.
Although medical doctors may be the first point of contact for children exploring their gender identity, many other professions can provide gender-affirming care, such as psychologists, social workers, teachers, counsellors and recreational coaches.
(Shutterstock)
Individuals with disabilities frequently confront stereotypes that limit their opportunities to form intimate relationships and have sex.
People protesting against inclusive sexual orientation and gender-identity policies in schools are seen next to protestors supporting such policies in Saskatoon, Sask. on Sept. 20, 2023.
THE CANADIAN PRESS/Heywood Yu
In the wake of transphobic protests, the ‘rights’ of parents are being falsely positioned in opposition to the rights of transgender and non-binary children rather than focusing on supporting families.
Pup play has its roots within kink communities and gay BDSM and leather subculture.
(Shutterstock)
Phillip Joy, Mount Saint Vincent University and Kinda Wassef, Mount Saint Vincent University
Pup play communities can help tackle problematic ideas about masculinity and provide space for personal development and self-expression.
Protesters and counter-protesters at a demonstration against sexual orientation and gender identity programs in schools, in front of Parliament Hill on Sept. 20, 2023. The protest was one of many across Canada, organized by “1MillionMarch4Children,” against so-called “gender ideology” being taught in schools.
THE CANADIAN PRESS/ Patrick Doyle
While Canadians are supportive of 2SLGBTQ+ communities, relatively few see themselves as active allies. Here are five steps people can take to be better allies.
Saskatchewan Premier Scott Moe, centre, speaks to media during the closing news conference at the Council of the Federation of Canada’s premiers in Winnipeg in July.
THE CANADIAN PRESS/John Woods
Elected officials must consider relevant research and legal context when shaping education policies. Otherwise, they risk destabilizing classrooms and harming students.
A woman gives a thumbs-down as she takes part in a protest against LGBTQ+ Pride in Ottawa, June 9, 2023.
THE CANADIAN PRESS/Sean Kilpatrick
Queer disabled people struggle to be seen in queer spaces that often do not accommodate them.
Contrary to misconceptions, exposing children to diverse expressions of gender identity supports their natural development and fosters inclusivity.
(AP Photo/Mary Altaffer)
Drag Queen Story Time events have faced backlash and protests recently. But contrary to misconceptions, these events can support child development and promote acceptance.
Protesters take part in a Gay Straight Alliance (GSA) rally at the Alberta legislature in Edmonton before the United Conservative Party cancelled GSA protections in June 2019.
THE CANADIAN PRESS/Jason Franson
How Alberta votes on May 29 will either pave the way for 2SLGBTQ+ youth to be affirmed in their identities or it will create a formal pathway for homophobia, biphobia and transphobia in the province.
Demonstrators carry a rainbow flag as they march demanding equal marriage rights in New Delhi, India on Jan. 8, 2023.
(AP Photo)
Trans and queer kinships provide emotional as well as material supports and care. But legalizing marriage alone would ignore such kinship ties.
People gathered at West Texas A&M University in Canyon, Tex. on March 21, 2023 to protest the university president’s decision to cancel a drag show on campus.
(Michael Cuviello/Amarillo Globe-News via AP)
Anti-LGBT sentiments are on the rise around the world, and Canada is not immune to the tide. Now is the time for us to speak out and denounce anti-LGBTQ actions and rhetoric.
Public Safety Minister Marco Mendicino speaks during a news conference on the government’s plan to enable expungements for convictions under the Criminal Code for bawdy house, indecency-based and abortion-related offences in Ottawa in March 2023.
THE CANADIAN PRESS/Justin Tang
Experts on the history of sexuality in Canada say recent changes to the Expungement Act don’t go far enough, and they urge Canadians to reject attempts to divide marginalized communities.
Exemptions from funding cuts are needed to ensure trans and non-binary people can get medical care.
(Shutterstock)
The closure of the virtual Connect-Clinic means fewer trans and non-binary people will get the vital health-care services they need.
For women to reach leadership positions, they need to be valued and recognized for their contributions, which may look different than those of their male colleagues.
(Shutterstock)
Feminine leadership encompasses aspects of ourselves that have been pushed aside within conventionally male-dominant spaces. Recentring them can foster leadership that is more inclusive.
A painting of the goddess Kali by Indian artist Raja Ravi Varma. The film Kaali by Leena Manimekalai has drawn controversy for the way it depicts the goddess.
(The Ganesh Shivaswamy Foundation, Bengaluru)
Leena Manimekalai’s film Kaali has drawn controversy and criticism, but like her other films, it highlights the inequalities and discrimination many continue to face.
PhD Student, School of Population and Public Health & Research Assistant, Stigma and Resilience Among Vulnerable Youth Research Centre, University of British Columbia