Current Training Topics
QUEERSPACE collective’s LGBTQ+ inclusivity training provides organizations with tools and language to create more affirming spaces for LGBTQ+ youth involved in organizational programs and LGBTQ+ colleagues in the workplace. Each training session is 60-90 minutes in length and can be facilitated in-person or remotely. Training sessions can be procured individually or consolidated into a broader LGBTQ+ Inclusivity training series and will be tailored to meet the needs of each organization.
Intro to LGBTQ+ Identities
Language matters to LGBTQ+ folx and is constantly evolving. In this introductory session we'll cover the nuance of identity, attraction, and expression as it relates to queer individuals and how pronouns and terms are just the start to creating affirmative spaces for all. This baseline training is essential for participants of all ages and backgrounds.
Learning Objectives:
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Understand the difference between gender identity and sexual orientation
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Illustrate the importance of using the correct pronouns to affirm a person’s identity
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Develop tools to create affirming spaces for LGBTQ+ youth and adults
Supporting Trans & Nonbinary Folx
Building on our introductory course, we'll dive deeper into gender identity and how people of all ages are living in a more gender expansive world. We will work to answer questions and dispel common misconceptions. Our hope is to provide context that uplifts and supports the unique experiences of transgender and non-binary folx in our community.
Learning Objectives:
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Build a deeper understanding of what it means to be transgender and/or non-binary
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Recognize that transgender and non-binary folx all have unique experiences
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Illustrate the importance of supporting transgender and non-binary folx in our community
Seeing and Celebrating LGBTQ+ Women
LGBTQ+ women have always been trailblazers when it comes to representing, leading and pushing the LGBTQ+ movement forward. With rising anti-trans legislation being introduced across the country, women in our community are experiencing violence like never before, especially trans women of color. During this panel, QUEERSPACE will provide an overview of tools to support and celebrate the diversity of women within the LGBTQ+ community.
Learning Objectives:
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Understand the importance of celebrating, validating and making LGBTQ+ Women visible
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Provide methods and tools that can be used to support and embrace LGBTQ+ women
Recognizing Intersectionality
There are as many ways to be LGBTQ+ as there are LGBTQ+ folks. While intersectionality is a cornerstone of all QUEERSPACE training sessions, this session explicitly touches on how race, culture, sexism and ableism affect the LGBTQ+ community and how we can best hear and support those at the intersection of multiple identities.
Learning Objectives:
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Understand the meaning of “intersectionality” and the history of this terminology
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Recognize how systems of inequality intersect to create unique dynamics and effects
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Illustrate the importance of supporting LGBTQ+ folx with multiple identities
Understanding and Overcoming Implicit Biases and Microaggressions
All spaces should strive for a positive environment that promotes and fosters well being, authenticity and self expressions without fear of how folx might be perceived. However, implicit biases and microaggressions occur daily in every space we take part of. In this Training, we define “implicit bias” and “microaggression” to help you understand and recognize them as you build a more inclusive space. We’ll also share tools on how you can deploy and challenge microaggressions and implicit biases.
Learning Objectives:
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Define and understand the meaning of implicit biases and microaggressions
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Recognize how systems of inequality influence and promote these biases
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Provide tools to effectively name, respond and prevent microaggressions in professional and personal settings
Cultural Competence and Cultural Humility
Becoming culturally competent and practicing cultural humility are central to creating inclusive spaces for ALL LGBTQ+ folx, especially Indigenous folx and folx of color. During this Training, we will develop a shared understanding of the terms culturally competent and cultural humility, explore why an understanding of these two concepts is important to creating inclusive spaces, and co-create goals to guide your journey to cultural competence and cultural humility.
Learning Objectives:
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Define and understand cultural competence and cultural humility
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Explore the importance of understanding both concepts to create inclusive spaces
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Co-create goals to guide participant’s journeys to cultural competence and cultural humility
Creating Inclusive Youth Spaces
Creating inclusive spaces is essential for ALL of us to be able to show up as our authentic selves. This training will offer strategies and insights for co-creating respectful and affirming LGBTQ+ spaces for all young people in our communities. Topics include adapting physical spaces to be more inclusive, age-appropriate tools to talk about gender and sexuality, and more.
Learning Objectives:
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Illustrate the importance of supporting and celebrating LGBTQ+ youth
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Discuss tools that can be used to create affirming spaces for LGBTQ+ youth
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Recognize the role the community plays to build the resilience of marginalized youth
LGBTQ+ Youth and Healthcare
Healthcare professionals have a unique opportunity to provide inclusive and gender affirming spaces for LGBTQ+ youth and their families. During this session QUEERSPACE will provide an overview of the challenges trans and non-binary folx have faced accessing healthcare, the barriers that still exist and ways the medical community can provide gender affirming care.
Learning Objectives:
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Highlight challenges LGBTQ+ youth have faced to access gender affirming healthcare
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Illustrate the importance of advocating for LGBTQ+ youth in healthcare settings
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Discuss methods healthcare professionals can utilize to creating gender affirming spaces
Becoming an LGBTQ+ Ally
Allies can be some of the most effective and powerful voices of the LGBTQ+ movement. Anyone can be an ally, regardless of their sexual orientation and/or gender identity. During this session QUEERSPACE will provide an overview of tools and tips on how to be a better ally and represent the needs of those who are unable to do so themselves.
Learning Objectives:
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Understand and comprehend what being an Ally means
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Illustrate the importance of supporting and advocating for LGBTQ+ folks who aren’t able to
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Discuss tools and tips that can be used to become an effective Ally