Building Bridges:

Connecting Families

Media Team March 4, 2018

It is easier to parent as a LGBTQ+ person these days, but it definitely isn’t easy.

While Canada has made strides forward in LGBT2Q+ rights and protections, that has not ended the poor treatment and bigotry some parents, and their children, face and often support for queer families still comes as an afterthought to straight families.

Often there are postpartum mental health issues such as depression and anxiety, issues dealt with by many parents, including lesbian parents, bi parents, and everyone else in the LGBTQ+ community.

The early days of parenting bring on added stressors for everyone, from lack of sleep to social isolation. Trans parents may deal with the hormonal fallout from childbirth, along with a lack of support from their own families.Gay fathers may be dealing with the sudden arrival of their adopted or surrogate child, as well as a lack of resources to help them adjust.

“Many members of our community becoming isolated when they decide to become parents as traditional spaces to connect with the queer community such as the bars and nightclubs are no longer viable or accessible. Spaces that include families are important to ensure LGBT2Q+ parents continue to feel included in our community and have safe spaces to turn to as traditional ‘Mommy & Me’ and other parenting classes are not inclusive.”

Jaime, Queer Events

LGBTQ+ parents need help, support, and a place to share their story, just like every other parent while it is also important for children from these families to see that there are other family units like theirs as well as to play in an inclusive environment. Many childcare providers still both consciously and unconsciously fail to adopt and communicate an inclusive definition of family. This program will assist in creating a basis of support within an early childhood environment.

“It is vital that young children can see that they are not the only family with two dads, or two moms, a trans parent or any other type of diverse family configuration in our community. That children can be free to play outside of established gender norms without fear of bullying or pressure.”

Monica, LGBT2Q+ Parent

Queer Events has increased their program delivery in this area, expanding their Queer Family Playtime to a monthly event in partnership with Childreach Centre, a community Parent Resource and EarlyON Child & Family Centre. 

This program provides a fun, safe and positive space for families of diverse identities to meet, play, learn and grow with each other. Children can enjoy an indoor play space full of toys, books, music, games and creative activities that encourage them to play together while parents and caregivers will have an opportunity to mingle and connect with other caregivers.

The program will run on the second Saturday of each month excepting holidays from 10am to noon for ages 0 - 7years old. This is a free event and all families are welcome. 

 

Find out more: Queer Family Playtime

 

Food for Queers Community Program

Food for Queers
Stay Safe. Not Hungry

Providing support for 2SLGBTQ+ folks experiencing food insecurities within the city of London

No questions. No contact. Just Support!

Visit About QE to learn more about our Programs & Initiatives.
Connect directly to the Queer Events Media Team

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