Celebrated during the month of June, Pride Month both commemorates and celebrates 2SLGBTQ+ communities and culture. Beginning back in 1969, Pride is a growing movement and one which United Way Niagara is proud to support in allyship.

Pride is not just about one community; it is a celebration of diversity and inclusivity for all. Serving as a reminder that we need to value and embrace the unique identities and experiences of EVERY individual, regardless of their age, race, background, gender or sexual orientation. It is a time to reflect on the progress made while continuing advocacy, honour the struggles faced and most importantly spread the message of love, acceptance and empower everyone to be their authentic selves.

It’s all about being okay with being yourself – to have the freedom to exist, within yourself, your community and in this world

United Way Niagara is proud to support local programs like Rainbow Niagara’s Youth Engagement Program, supporting 2SLGBTQ+ youth at this critical time. Providing young individuals with social connections, mentorship, one-on-one support, resources and most importantly a place to belong will lead to a healthier, vibrant and more inclusive community for the future.

Quest – Rainbow Niagara is just one local partner supported by United Way Niagara that are making a difference in our community for local youth. When we asked our partners at Quest – Rainbow Niagara what Pride means to them, a common theme arose. “It’s all about being okay with being yourself – to have the freedom to exist, within yourself, your community and in this world,” explained Kai, the LGBTQ+ Youth Engagement Program Coordinator.

Safe spaces for youth to connect and develop a sense of community and emotional support is necessary for their well-being, their parents/caregiver’s well-being, and the community’s well-being

Gender and sexually diverse youth experience a variety of unique challenges and barriers. Without appropriate support and connection with others who have a shared experience, youth can often feel alone, isolated, stressed and experience mental health challenges. The Youth Engagement Program at Quest – Rainbow Niagara, ensures there is a safe space for youth to explore their identities, helping to fill a previous gap in crucial services for this age group.

“Now more than ever with the political landscape of 2SLGBTQ+ youth having their rights taken from them in many countries, safe spaces for youth to connect and develop a sense of community and emotional support is necessary for their well-being, their parents/caregiver’s well-being, and the community’s well-being. This project has also been able to increase our capacity to deliver community presentations to students and service providers across Niagara to build capacity regarding culturally safe care for the 2SLGBTQ+ community. We’re very grateful to United Way Niagara for funding the 2SLGBTQ+ Youth Engagement project at Quest Community Health Centre,” – Stephanie Vail, Community Health Worker at Rainbow Niagara 2SLGBTQ+ Services.

I’ve witnessed improved confidence, developments in emotional growth and just seeing them have fun. I can see them developing a newfound sense of courage every day. It’s rewarding

Seeing the youth thrive in the program is one of the best parts of the job Kai explained. “It’s amazing to watch them form these remarkable social connections with each other and with us. I’ve witnessed improved confidence, developments in emotional growth and just seeing them have fun. I can see them developing a newfound sense of courage every day. It’s rewarding.”

Why is supporting 2SLGBTQ+ youth important?

• Mental Health and Well-being: 2SLGBTQ+ youth often face higher rates of mental health issues such as depression, anxiety and suicidal ideation due to societal stigma, discrimination and lack of acceptance.
• Development: Adolescence is a critical period for self-discovery and identity formation – for 2SLGBTQ+ youth, this process can be particularly challenging as they also navigate their sexual orientation or gender identity.
• Education and Awareness: Supporting 2SLGBTQ+ youth involves fostering inclusive environments that promote acceptance, respect and understanding – things that everyone deserves.
• Safe Spaces and Community Support: Providing space that allows for validation, mentorship and a sense of belonging for youth to connect with their peers is vital for personal growth and resilience.

The program is so much more than its name implies.

Rainbow Niagara has been addressing the equity gap in health and social services for sexually and gender diverse populations since its inception in 2010; providing health care, mental health support, outreach and a long list of other services. Last year, they identified a need to increase capacity, expanding service offerings to include 2SLGBTQ+ youth as young as 10 years.

By investing in the support and empowerment of 2SLGBTQ+ youth, we are helping to create a society that values diversity and celebrates the contributions of every individual, and that will benefit us all.

Looking for 2SLGBTQ+ resources in Niagara? CLICK HERE