The Forge is committed to fostering an accessible and welcoming environment for diverse members of the 2SLGBTQ+ community. We stand by and wholeheartedly support the rights of 2SLGBTQ+ members to equal opportunity and personal dignity. We are dedicated to creating an inclusive work environment in which we value the strengths, perspectives, and contributions of each individual.
The Forge is strengthened by its diversity and we are here to support those who are passionate about solving a problem or looking for support to launch your startup or to be a part of our ecosystem.
We have compiled the following resources, community groups, and events in the Hamilton and surrounding area for anyone looking to educate themselves and get involved in Pride month, and every month.
McMaster Students Union (MSU) Pride Community Centre (PCC) is a student-run service provided by the MSU that provides a contact point for McMaster students that may identify as gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgender, queer, and/or any of the other diverse identities that make up our community.
As advocates for gender & sexual diversity, the PCC’s mandate upholds that 2SLGBTQ+ students are entitled to a safe and supportive campus, absent of homophobia and transphobia, where the expression of one’s gender & sexual identity is welcomed and respected.
Contact:
pride@msu.mcmaster.ca
Instagram & Twitter: @msu_pride
Facebook: @msupridecommunitycentre
https://msumcmaster.ca/service/pcc/
Discrimination and harassment because of gender identity or gender expression are violations of the Ontario Human Rights Code and McMaster University’s Policy on Discrimination and Harassment: Prevention and Response.
People who identify as transgender, Two-Spirit and/or gender non-binary have a legal right to be treated with dignity and respect in the classroom, in the workplace, on University property and during University-sanctioned events or activities.
The Trans-Inclusion Online Resource aims to provide information about issues and concerns related to gender identity and gender expression in order to assure an environment that is inclusive of all University members and visitors to campus.
Contact:
equity@mcmaster.ca
https://equity.mcmaster.ca/program-resources/equity-inclusion/resources/
Speqtrum is a hub for support and community building for 2S-LGBTQIA+ young people.
If you are questioning your sexual/romantic orientation or gender, aren’t sure if you are considered a part of the 2S-LGBTQIA+ community, or don’t see your identity reflected in the acronym being used, you are still 100% welcome at their events! Speqtrum firmly believes in supporting ALL youth under the rainbow, and they don’t draw lines about whose identity counts, and whose does not.
Contact:
https://www.speqtrum.ca/events
Instagram, Facebook & Twitter: @speqtrumYHM
Established in 2012, Social Inc. is providing a safer, respectful and positive space for all students. Social Inc. is grounded in human rights, celebrates and promotes inclusion while working to identify, prevent and eliminate discrimination.
With the support of staff and many student volunteers, Social Inc. hosts, facilitates and coordinates events at all campuses in collaboration with other departments including International Student Services, Mohawk Students’ Association, Accessible Learning Services and Student Life. Social Inc. also hosts guest speakers, panel discussions and information exhibits on equity, inclusion and anti-oppression topics such as LGBTQ2S+ rights, disability awareness, addressing racism and gender identity/expression.
Contact:
https://www.mohawkcollege.ca/social-inc
Instagram, Facebook & Twitter: @socialincmohawk
A variety of supports exist across Canada that may help LGBTQ2S+ entrepreneurs and those interested in beginning their entrepreneurship journey. This website is designed to share resources that may assist individuals bring their ideas to life, scale their enterprises, connect with other business-owners and leaders in the LGBTQ2S+ community, and learn more about LGBTQ2S+ inclusion in Canada’s economy.
Contact:
Twitter & Instagram: @wekh_pcfe
LinkedIn: Women Entrepreneurship Knowledge Hub (WEKH)
Facebook: @WEKHPCFE
https://wekh.ca/supports-lgbtq2s-entrepreneurs/
The AIDS Network is a registered charitable organization that offers services and education to people living in the communities of Hamilton, Halton, Haldimand, Norfolk, and Brant.
Established in 1986, The AIDS Network is the only organization in the region that offers services and support to men, women, children, and families who have been affected by HIV/AIDS. With people in our community being diagnosed with HIV/AIDS every week, this organization is committed to addressing HIV/AIDS through education and support.
The Aids Network hosted an exciting panel discussion and Q&A featuring local voices sharing their experiences organizing and participating in Pride events and reflecting on the impact on LGBTQ+ individuals. Link to view
Contact:
Facebook & Twitter: @TheAIDSNetwork
https://aidsnetwork.ca/
Catering to the LGBTQ community across Canada, USA & Mexico since 1989, The Pink Pages Directory has been a crediblle LGBTQ directory and the source of friendly businesses and services.
The Pink Pages Directory started in the Greater Toronto Area. It grew to be one of the most successful, trusted, and respected directories of its kind. Over the last number of years, they’ve taken it to an all new and unprecedented level. They have expanded Ontario-wide, and to Montreal, both in print, and are now nationally online.
Contact:
Facebook: @ThePinkPagesDirectory
Twitter: @LGBTQdirectory
https://thepinkpagesdirectory.com/