Speak up

Small actions can have a big impact. Using gender-neutral terms like “people,” “honoured guests” or “everyone” instead of “ladies and gentlemen” can ensure everyone feels welcomed and respected.  

Using someone’s correct name and pronouns during an interaction can make a significant impact. No matter how short the exchange may be, it helps to actively create an inclusive environment of mutual respect. Even if you think they’re obvious, sharing your own pronouns when introducing yourself can help normalize inclusive practices.

If you notice there’s an area of opportunity at a local establishment like a community centre, feel free to make a suggestion! Suggestions like using inclusive language on registration forms can make a big difference in the lives of everyone within the community. 

There are many different ways you can create safe spaces in your neighbourhood. For example, you can support your neighbours by educating yourself on 2SLGBTQI+ history, attending community events, or flying a Pride flag. You can also ensure neighbourhood or community campaigns are accessible and celebrate diversity.  

Try your best to stay up to date on 2SLGBTQI+ terminology and challenges that present barriers to social and economic inclusion. By adopting a lifelong learner mindset, you’re supporting your community. 

Simply correct yourself and continue with the conversation. By overcorrecting yourself, you’re drawing more attention to your mistake and to the person’s sexuality or gender identity. It might make the person you’re talking to feel like they need to reassure you about your mistake, having the opposite effect you intended. Mistakes happen! Try not to overthink it and make a conscious effort not to make the same mistake again. 

Mistakes are a big part of the learning process. Don’t strive for perfection when you’re just starting to learn. Stay open and receptive to constructive feedback and be kind to yourself. The work you’re doing is important! 

Asking someone what pronouns they use isn’t rude or invasive. It shows that you respect who they are. If you’ve never asked someone before, it might feel a little awkward at first. Here are some examples of how you can ask someone:  

If you’re chatting with someone, try to use inclusive language when asking more questions about their life. For example, use terms like “partner” or “spouse” instead of “husband” or “wife.”  

You might come across a situation where a neighbour misgenders someone else or makes a comment on their sexuality or gender identity rooted in stigma or bias. If you feel safe doing so, speak up by politely correcting them. Opening the door to a conversation to share what you’ve learned can make a big impact on the lives of others. It can be as simple as saying, “Actually, Chris uses they/them pronouns.” 

Just because someone has told you they are 2SLGBTQI+, it doesn’t necessarily mean they’re ready for everyone to know. Take your lead from that person. Also, someone’s sexuality or gender identity is only one aspect of their personality, so it’s not necessary to mention it during every encounter.  

One way to help create an inclusive environment is to be as friendly with your 2SLGBTQI+ colleagues as you would be with anyone. While it’s important to respect everyone’s private lives, asking simple, casual questions—like “How are you doing?” or “Did you have a nice weekend?”—makes work enjoyable and goes a long way in building an inclusive workforce. You might even make a friend along the way!

Like anyone, 2SLGBTQI+ people go through hard times. Perhaps they’ve seen homophobic content online or someone threatened them on the bus coming to work. Such events are frequent for many people in the 2SLGBTQI+ communities. If you notice any colleague struggling, asking what’s troubling them and offering them support can make a huge difference in their lives. You may even be able to refer them to resources they didn’t know existed.

Did you know that in addition to celebrating Pride Season during the summer months, there are other important days? Here are a few other notable dates: the International Day Against Homophobia, Biphobia, and Transphobia on May 17, Bisexual Awareness Day on September 23, and Transgender Day of Remembrance on November 20. Each of these days has a specific history and purpose. Discussing and marking them can be a great way to demonstrate that you’re committed to creating an inclusive workplace.

Pronouns are important. They’re a meaningful sign that tells others how a person wishes to be seen. Saying “him” or “he” when speaking about a trans woman can be very hurtful. Such mistakes can leave trans or non-binary persons wondering if the hurt was caused on purpose. Honest mistakes happen. It’s OK to just apologize and use the right pronouns next time. It’s legal to change your pronouns in Canada, which is a significant life change for queer and trans people. That said, it’s fine to ask what a person’s pronouns are if it isn’t obvious to you. Kindness and open-mindedness are key when it comes to these conversations.

Maybe your non-binary colleague is the first 2SLGBTQI+ person you’ve met. Or your coworker was previously in a relationship with a woman and is now dating a man. Perhaps you’ve noticed there are more and more 2SLGBTQI+ people who are open to being their true selves at work and you aren’t sure which words to use around them. Change happens. Trust yourself and stay confident in your ability to be respectful to your coworkers.

2SLGBTQI+ people are the subject of a lot of misinformation and blame online. It’s often done by people or groups who are simply looking to shock and scare others for their own benefit and to attract attention. If you have questions about 2SLGBTQI+ issues, visit official sites or trusted news sources that have a history of fact-checking.

If you witness a 2SLGBTQI+ person being harassed, don’t assume that they’ll report it. They may not have confidence in their superiors or know how to report harm. If you can, be supportive—this can mean offering moral support, sharing information on how to report harm at work, or speaking in confidence to your superiors. In short, if you see something, do something.

If you’re showing your new coworker around the building, make sure to point out where all the bathrooms are, not just the one that you think matches your perception of their gender. If you’re hosting a social event, tell everyone they’re welcome to bring a plus one or their spouse or partners, instead of assuming they’re in a straight relationship. These little steps can go a long way in making 2SLGBTQI+ people feel welcome.  

Your colleagues aren’t at work to debate politics, education, or sports. They’re there to work. Don’t assume that they want to tackle complicated gender identity and political issues on their lunch breaks. Being part of a group or community doesn’t mean someone wants to represent it all the time.  

Remember—even the smallest changes you make can have a big impact on people’s lives for the better. Take those small steps, be kind and friendly, and keep moving forward!

Seemingly small actions like sharing educational content or adding a short note in your social media bio can make a big difference and show others that you’re a safe person to reach out to, ask questions to, or confide in. 

When you see something discriminatory online, it’s okay to speak up. Asking a calm question like “Can you explain what you meant?” can help you to understand whether someone is open to learning or just trying to spread hate. Responding with curiosity instead of confrontation won’t always work, and not every comment is worth engaging with. But when dialogue is possible, it can open space for reflection and sometimes shift perspectives without excusing the harm caused. 

Seeing a friend or family member share hateful views online can be upsetting. If you’re able to, try having a calm, respectful conversation in real life.  

A simple public message of support can make a real difference. And if the person being targeted is someone close to you, consider a more personal approach, like sending a supportive note. 

You don’t need to be an expert. Listening, showing respect, and being willing to learn already go a long way.

Allyship isn’t about winning debates or scoring points. It’s about real people’s lives and their right to be safe and respected.  

The goal isn’t to have the last word, but to support, inform, or set boundaries. Focus on the impact of your message, not your ego. 

Talking about these topics helps people feel welcome and valued. Look for opportunities to include resources that reflect the diverse experiences of 2SLGBTQI+ communities in your college or university lessons. Incorporate 2SLGBTQI+ authors, researchers, and historical figures to enrich your course materials and broaden your students’ perspectives.  

You play a key role in shaping a welcoming environment. Share with your adult students about how your postsecondary school supports 2SLGBTQI+ communities. Listen to your 2SLGBTQI+ students’ feedback on what would help them feel more included and be prepared to put those ideas into practice where possible.  

Classrooms in higher education are spaces for sharing perspectives and engaging in debate, but sometimes misconceptions arise. If one of your students shares an idea that misrepresents 2SLGBTQI+ communities, listen and respond calmly with accurate, respectful information. Gently challenging misinformation helps create a safer space for all.  

Inclusivity is not a nice addition to a classroom; it’s a core principle of quality education. Continue your own learning through workshops, training, or community events focused on equality and diversity. This will help you better support your students and recognize your own biases. 

Early adulthood is an important time for self-discovery. Use the names and pronouns your students share with you and be flexible if these change during the semester. A little respect goes a long way in helping students feel seen and valued. 

Don’t assume adult learners share the same understanding of respectful dialogue. At the start of the semester, outline clear guidelines for inclusive language and civil debate. You could even ask your postsecondary students to collaborate on these expectations. This builds trust and sets the tone for open, supportive conversations. 

Just because a student has told you their preferred name and pronouns, that doesn’t mean they are ready to share them with their entire class. To protect their privacy, use a sign-in sheet or another discreet method for attendance. 

Students come to your college or university classroom with many different backgrounds and experiences. When covering 2SLGBTQI+ topics, take time to explain key concepts and encourage questions. Creating a judgment-free space to learn is an important way to help prevent hate and build understanding. 

It’s important to invite students from underrepresented communities to share their opinions and stories. But there is a fine line between providing a platform and forcing someone to speak for an entire community. Create opportunities for adult students to contribute when they feel comfortable and respect their choice to listen if that is their preference. 

It’s easy for language to unintentionally create division. For example, phrases like “even though it is not our experience, it’s important we learn about 2SLGBTQI+ communities” are well-intentioned but could make 2SLGBTQI+ students feel singled out or othered. Try wording like, “all Canadians can benefit from learning about 2SLGBTQI+ communities” to reinforce unity and belonging in your postsecondary classroom.

If you hear someone using offensive language or come across it in course material during your higher education, don’t be afraid to say something. People in 2SLGBTQI+ communities spend a lot of time and effort educating others. You can share that responsibility by showing that inclusive language matters to everyone. Explain why certain words are harmful and suggest kinder alternatives to help others learn and grow. 

For many students, college and university are their first opportunities to discover who they are in a new setting. Sexuality and gender exist on spectrums, and navigating one’s identity isn’t always a straightforward journey. You can help by listening, encouraging their exploration, and supporting your friends as they figure things out.  

Sharing a dorm room or apartment can be awkward at first and can be even more stressful for 2SLGBTQI+ people. Make your shared space safe by respecting boundaries, privacy, and belongings. Communicate openly and avoid making assumptions about your roommate’s interests or experiences. Get to know them as a whole.  

Sometimes, a friend or classmate may tell you that something you said or did was hurtful. It might feel uncomfortable to hear, but they are telling you because they trust you. Listening and learning in these moments shows you care and helps build stronger, safer friendships, and communities.

Events focused on diversity and inclusion help create a more welcoming postsecondary campus. They’re also great opportunities to challenge your own biases and learn new things. By attending, you show your support for 2SLGBTQI+ communities and build valuable collaboration, critical thinking, and communication skills that will benefit you in both academic and professional settings.

If someone trusts you enough to share that they’re sexually or gender diverse, keep the information private. It’s their story to tell on their own terms. Avoid gossiping or speculating about someone’s identity. If they want to share more, they will. 

Meeting people at college or university with different experiences can be exciting, but remember they’re not there to be your source of entertainment or curiosity. See your classmates as individuals, with interests and identities that go far beyond gender or sexuality. 

Being a supportive person means giving people space to share when they’re ready. Don’t push someone to explain their identity before they feel comfortable, and avoid intrusive questions about someone’s gender, sexuality, body, or relationships.

Don’t assume someone won’t want to join campus events or social activities just because the event isn’t exclusively for 2SLGBTQI+ students. If you enjoy their company, invite them along! College and university are about trying new things — don’t limit someone’s experience based on bias or assumptions. 

If someone looks upset or uncomfortable, don’t brush it off. Check in with them, listen, and ask how you can help. Small moments of care and support build trust and help people feel they belong.

Many 2SLGBTQI+ seniors feel pressure to hide their gender identity or sexuality to feel safe or accepted when they move into care. Display visible signs like rainbow stickers, a Pride flag, or related posters to let residents know they’re welcome as they are. 

Review intake forms and policies to ensure they reflect all identities and relationships. Include space for chosen names, pronouns, and open-ended relationship fields like “Partner” or “Spouse” instead of “Husband/Wife.” Make it simple for people to list chosen family members or a same-gender partner without fear of judgement. 

Organize Pride-themed activities, hang flags or banners during Pride month and beyond, or arrange transportation for residents who'd like to attend local Pride events. Celebrate diversity throughout the year to remind residents they belong and are welcome as they are.  

Invite drag performers, queer comedians, or 2SLGBTQI+ speakers. These events can bring joy, foster connection, and spark conversations in a fun, safe way. 

Consider partnering with local 2SLGBTQI+ youth groups or community centres to organize intergenerational meetups. These gatherings are a great way to reduce isolation and build understanding and community between residents and the wider 2SLGBTQI+ communities. 

Ensure everyone who enters your facility knows that discrimination, harassment, and bullying are not tolerated. Visible policies help people feel safer speaking out when they need to.  

Train all staff on 2SLGBTQI+ inclusion, language, and how to respond to harassment or discrimination. An informed team is crucial to creating a respectful, safe environment for all. 

Don’t assume all seniors are heterosexual or cisgender. Remember, a resident’s spouse or partner who lives elsewhere may be any gender. Use inclusive language and avoid reinforcing traditional gender roles or norms. 

Never pressure a resident to disclose their sexual orientation or gender identity. Create a culture where they feel safe to share if they want but always respect their privacy.  

Don’t assume a resident’s visitor is “just a friend.” Treat same-gender partners or chosen family with the same warmth and respect as any spouse or relative. 

Don’t limit 2SLGBTQI+ visibility to Pride month. Ongoing activities, respectful language, and signs of inclusion should be woven into daily life. Celebrate diversity all year long!

When greeting patients for the first time, use their full name (e.g. “Hello, Peter Smith”) as a respectful, gender-neutral approach. This avoids assumptions about gender identity and gives the patient the option to share their name and pronouns if they wish. Avoid using gendered titles like “Mr.” or “Ms.” unless the patient has indicated a preference.

When possible, ask the patient what name and pronouns they’d like you to use. A person’s chosen name might be different from their legal name and using their preferred name can help build trust and provide comfort. If they consent, update records and staff communications accordingly to ensure every interaction honours their identity and helps them feel heard. 

Sometimes billing, insurance, or lab requests require the patient’s legal name that appears on official ID or government records. When this is the case, inform the patient and explain why this is needed. Make sure your whole team understands this as well. 

Review your forms and signage for gendered or limited language, for example “Women’s Health,” or “Mother/Father.” Updating these examples to “Reproductive Health,” and “Parent/Guardian” reaches more people and helps patients feel seen and respected.  

Use discretion when asking about names, gender, and sexual orientation, especially at reception or in shared spaces. If you’re not sure, ask privately. 

Never share a patient’s gender identity or sexual orientation with staff or family unless it’s essential for their medical care. If it doesn’t affect treatment, keep it private. Outing someone without their consent can cause harm.  

If you’re not sure which name to use in public spaces, ask the patient: “Which name would you like us to call when it’s your turn?” 

When talking about relationships and sexual health, use questions like “Are you sexually active? With…?” Let the patient describe their relationships in their own words. 

Forms that force people into boxes can make medical visits uncomfortable or stressful. Updating them is a simple step that goes a long way. 

If you use the wrong name or pronoun, thank the person for correcting you, make the change, and move on. Patients shouldn’t have to educate staff on 2SLGBTQI+ communities and topics. Seek training and resources to build your knowledge and confidence.