Who can participate in Indigiqueeries?
Anyone who identifies as Two-Spirit and/or Indigiqueer is welcome to attend. To maximize comfort for participants, this program is for Two-Spirit and queer Indigenous people only.
What is Indigiqueeries?
Indigiqueries offers the chance for Two-Spirit and Indigiqueer people to come together to share space on a range of topics. It exists as a sharing circle, a point of connection for those who experience intersectionality.
Indigiqueries is our way of creating a standard practice of holding space for others with humility, patience and good humour. We strive to build community and inspire transformation with each unique café discussion. It is our mission to mitigate harm by creating a safer space in which all participants feel brave to take part in what are sometimes hard conversations by shedding light on complicated topics. We invite people to share their thoughts in a way that is comfortable for them while respecting one another's boundaries. Discussion topics have included coming out, urban displacement, family dynamics, sexual health, and so much more.
Why attend Indigiqueeries?
Indigiqueries is a chance for Two-Spirit and Indigiqueer people to connect, build community and showcase our diversity. While Two-Spirit and Indigiqueer may be referred to as umbrella terms for queer Indigenous people, we know that isn't always the case. Indigiqueries acknowledges the complexities of Two-Spirit and Indigiqueer identities. It's through connections like these that we recognize each participant's unique thoughts and voices.
It also provides opportunity for our participants to build on their communication skills, leading to increased awareness and self-esteem.
Your Rights and Responsibilities at Indigiqueeries
Participants are reminded of their rights and responsibilities while attending Indigiqueries, which include the rights to: participate in a healthy learning environment, including healthy discussions and conversations; the right to pass on discussing topics that may or may not be considered harmful to themselves or others; privacy when it comes to ensuring confidentiality amongst other participants present; respect everyone in attendance and what they choose to share; and fun to ensure we are holding space for laughter, joy and acceptance as well as our shared experiences.
Counselling is Available
We recognize that conversations at Indigiqueeries have the potential to uncover some hard emotions, which is why the Centre for Sexuality offers free short-term counselling. Participants are encouraged to contact our intake team if they wish to utilize these services.
For information on counselling services, please visit: https://www.centreforsexuality.ca/programs-services/counselling.
