Pride Season in Canada (June to September) is a time to celebrate the strength, talents, and work of 2SLGBTQI+ (Two-Spirit, Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer, Intersex, Plus) communities.
The tips below can help you think about how your words and actions can support fairness and respect for everyone.
Using Gender-Neutral Communication:
Challenge Assumptions and Use Inclusive Language
“Attention boys and girls!” “Can I get you ladies something?” “I haven’t met him.”
Everyday language is often gendered without us realizing it. By shifting towards inclusive language, we can create a more supportive environment that respects the gender identities of all people.
Things to keep in mind to practice inclusive language:
- Inclusive language is used to include people of ALL genders and sexual orientations.
- Don’t assume someone’s gender identity by the way they look.
- Use gender-neutral language when addressing a general audience or people you don’t know.
- Recognizing an individual’s identity using the right language demonstrates support and respect.
- It is okay to make mistakes! Learn from them and aim to do better next time.
Practice using inclusive language:
| INSTEAD OF SAYING | SAY THIS |
|---|---|
| “Attention boys and girls!” | “Attention everyone!” |
| “Can I get you ladies something?” | “Can I get you all something?” |
| “I haven’t met him.” | “I haven’t met them.” |
Learn more about using inclusive language:
- Inclusive and Affirming Language Tips
- Gender Identity and Expression
- Translating Gender Inclusive Terms from English to French
- French Style Guide for Inclusive Writing
- Educate Yourself: Stay informed about gender diversity by reading credible resources. Organizations like Eagle Canada provide educational materials and workshops for educators on 2SLGBTQI+ inclusion in schools.
- Create Safe Spaces: Explore resources on creating safe spaces for 2SLGBTQI+ youth. PFLAG (Parents, Families and Friends of Lesbians and Gays) provides information and support for families and educators.
- Celebrate Diversity: Promote workplace inclusion by offering training and education, and creating or improving policies.
- Respect Pronouns: Understand the importance of using correct pronouns. See this helpful pronoun usage guide.
- Address Bullying and Discrimination: Access classroom resources.
- Encourage Self-Expression: Foster environments that encourage self-discovery and expression. See the following online resources, educational materials, and videos to help overcome stigma and create more supportive environments for 2SLGBTQI+ children.
- Lead by Example: Model inclusive behaviour and attitudes in everyday interactions.
Participate in Community Events and Pride Celebrations:
- Explore Pride events happening across Canada from June to September.
- Attend your local Windsor Essex Pride Festival from August 8-10, 2025..
- Find local volunteer opportunities in Windsor-Essex.
Share Your Pride:
Share your Pride experiences on social media using #PrideCanada to amplify visibility and solidarity within the 2SLGBTQI+ community.
Call 1-800-668-6868, TEXT CONNECT to 686868 or Live Chat
24 hours/day, 7 days/week
Talk about anything with a trained, volunteer crisis responder. Texting service is free, no data plan or internet connection needed. All communication is confidential.
Email the Helplineat askus@youthline.ca, text 647-694-4275 or Live Chat
Sunday to Friday 4pm to 9:30pm.
Confidential, non-judgemental and informed 2SLGBTQI+ peer support.
Inside Out Online Youth Groups (Windsor-Essex)
Ages 12-25
Our youth groups are a safe and affirming social and support group for lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, transsexual, queer, questioning, intersex, 2-spirit, pansexual, asexual (2SLGBTQ+) and allied youth. They are primarily a social group with games, arts and crafts, and fun activities. We promote the health and wellbeing, and empowerment of 2SLGBTQ+ youth.
One Stop Talk (Ontario)
Children or teen under 18 years of age
Monday – Friday: 12PM – 8PM and Saturday: 12PM – 4PM
Free, confidential service that lets kids and youth get immediate mental health support with a registered therapist. Phone 1-855-416-TALK (8255)or go online with a video or audio call. Available in many languages.
2SLGBTQI+ Groups & Organizations
This directory is designed to help you find resources on 2SLGBTQI+ groups and organizations in Windsor-Essex. These listings were compiled by submissions from the community along with organizations that have supported the 2SLGBTQI+ community in Windsor-Essex.