2SLGBTQIA+ is an acronym that stands for Two-Spirit, lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer (or questioning), intersex, and asexual. The plus sign represents other gender and sexual identities, such as pansexual, while queer is a blanket term for a variety of different 2SLGBTQIA+ identities. This more inclusive acronym is used to refer to individuals with gender identities and sexual orientations that have historically and currently experience oppression. In particular, the “I” for intersex identity and the “A” for asexual identity are now being included.
Resources for 2SLGBTQIA+ individuals and communities in London
pflag Canada: A charitable organization for 2SLGBTQIA+ parents, allies, and individuals who are looking for the best ways to support their children, their friends, or themselves on a variety of topics.
It Gets Better: A U.S.-based organization that provides information, mental health support, and empowers LGBTQ+ youth to traverse their own unique identities and journeys.
LGBTQ2S Community Resource List for London, Ontario: Created by the London Inter-Community Health Centre, this document includes information on local support groups for LGBTQ+ individuals and their guardians and parents. These social groups are geared towards youth aged 14 to 18, allies, and newcomers.
Southwest Healthline: A directory for LGBTQ+ individuals in the London-Middlesex area, providing contacts for organizations offering peer support, helplines, allyship resources, HIV/AIDS prevention, and other forms of necessary support. and other forms of necessary support.
My Kid Came Out to Me! What Now?: A helpful guide for parents and caregivers whose child has come out as 2SLGBTQIA+ developed by Fairy Godparents London and Area. This resource provides insights, support, and practical advice on how to navigate conversations, foster understanding, and create an affirming environment.
How Do I Come Out? : This helpful guide by Egale provides a resource for those seeking guidance and practical tools on how to navigate conversations, and factors to consider when deciding to come out.
Trans Health Knowledge Base and Resource Library: These two resource hubs by Rainbow Health Ontario provide vital information for trans and non-binary individuals in Ontario with questions about accessing, receiving, and finding healthcare. It also includes guides for specific intersectional identities such as refugees and newcomers, people who are Indigenous, sex workers, and others, as well as fact sheets on different surgeries, medications, and 2SLGBTQ health resources.
2SLGBTQ+ Canadian Healthcare Bill of Rights for Advanced Illness, Frailty, and End of Life: The 2SLGBTQ+ Bill Infographic provides essential information about the rights and protections for 2SLGBTQ+ individuals under Canadian law. It outlines key legislation, resources, and support available to promote understanding and advocacy for the 2SLGBTQ+ community.
Supporting LGBTQ+ Youth Through Affirmative Care: Finding a Affirmative Therapist (for LGBTQ+ Youth): Project AFFIRM provides a downloadable checklist to help LGBTQ+ youth find the right affirmative mental health care for them.
LGBTQ+ Youth Help: A valuable source for LGBTQ+ youth, with information on sexual health, self-education, and other topics and resources.
LGBT YouthLine: A confidential and anonymous peer-support service for 2SLGBTQIA+ youth available via chat, phone, text, and email.