LGBTQ+ Speakers & Leaders and Workshops
Sydney Elaine Butler (They/Them)
Sydney Elaine Butler is the founder of Accessible Creates, a passionate Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging facilitator, and a neurodiversity specialist. With a focus on making workplaces inclusive and accessible, Sydney is dedicated to fostering environments where everyone can thrive. Their expertise lies in creating spaces that celebrate diversity, dismantle barriers, and promote equitable practices, championing a more inclusive future.
Dr. James Makokis
Dr. James Makokis is a renowned keynote speaker, medical professional, and Two-Spirit Cree physician. Dr. Makokis is a passionate advocate for Indigenous health, LGBTQ+ rights, and environmental stewardship. With expertise in integrating traditional Indigenous knowledge with Western medicine, Dr. Makokis promotes holistic approaches to wellness and strives to create inclusive and culturally safe spaces for all. Hear impactful presentations that inspires audiences to embrace diversity, foster reconciliation, and prioritize the well-being of marginalized communities.
Shelly Skinner (She/Her)
Shelly Skinner is known for her advocacy in LGBTQ+ rights, social justice, and racial equality. She is actively engaged with UpLift Black, an organization dedicated to empowering and uplifting Black communities. Through her powerful speaking engagements, Shelly ignites important conversations, inspires positive change, and emphasizes the importance of amplifying Black voices and experiences in the pursuit of a more inclusive and equitable society.
Syrus Marcus Ware
Syrus Marcus Ware is a renowned professional speaker, artist, and activist known for their expertise in the fields of social justice and racial equity. Syrus explores the intersections of art, activism, and community engagement, shedding light on important issues such as anti-Black racism, queer and trans liberation. His thought-provoking talks inspire audiences to challenge systemic oppression, and work towards building a more inclusive and equitable society.
Kathryn Foss (She/Her)
Kathryn Foss (She/Her) is a respected professional and thought leader in the field of diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI). With a wealth of experience, Kathy offers valuable insights and strategies to organizations seeking to cultivate inclusive and equitable environments. She empowers individuals and teams to embrace diversity, challenge biases, and create workplaces that foster belonging and respect. Through her expertise, Kathryn helps organizations build stronger connections and drive positive social change.
Harrison Browne
Harrison Browne is a trailblazing athlete, activist, and advocate for LGBTQ+ inclusion in sports. As a transgender hockey player, Harrison has made significant strides in promoting acceptance and understanding within the sports community. Through his speaking engagements and advocacy work, he inspires individuals to challenge societal norms, break down barriers, and create more inclusive spaces for transgender athletes.
Kristen Worley
Kristen Worley is a highly respected professional speaker and a prominent advocate for LGBTQ+ rights and human rights. With her powerful and impactful presentations, Kristen shares her personal experiences and challenges as a transgender individual, highlighting the importance of inclusivity, equality, and acceptance in society. Her insightful talks inspire audiences to embrace diversity, challenge stereotypes, and create more inclusive and affirming environments for all individuals, regardless of their gender identity.
Egale
Workshops by Egale Canada focus on LGBTQ+ inclusion and education, covering topics such as creating inclusive spaces, understanding gender identities, and addressing homophobia and transphobia. These workshops provide valuable knowledge and tools to promote LGBTQ+ equality and support in various settings, including workplaces, schools, and community organizations.
Pride at Work Canada
Pride at Work Canada's education workshops focus on creating inclusive workplaces for LGBTQ+ employees. These workshops cover a range of topics, including LGBTQ+ terminology, allyship, health and well-being, and building inclusive policies and practices. Participants gain a deeper understanding of LGBTQ+ issues and acquire tools to foster a welcoming and supportive work environment for all employees.
CGLCC
Canadian Gay & Lesbian Chamber of Commerce offers training workshops aimed at fostering LGBTQ+ inclusivity and building capacity within the business community. These workshops provide insights into LGBTQ+ diversity and inclusion strategies, supplier diversity, and LGBTQ+-focused marketing. Participants gain practical knowledge and skills to create inclusive environments and enhance their business practices
Curated boxes, stand-alone gifts, items to accompany meetings or trainings. All while supporting LGBTQ+ owned entrepreneurs.
Hot Shot Chocolate is a LGBTQ-owned business that specializes in handcrafted, small-batch hot chocolate mixes. They use ethically sourced ingredients and offer a range of unique flavors, providing a delightful and indulgent experience for chocolate lovers.
Soap So Co. is a LGBTQ-owned business that offers handcrafted, vegan, and cruelty-free soaps and bath products. They prioritize using natural ingredients and environmentally friendly packaging, providing customers with high-quality, sustainable options for their skincare routines.express himself.
Noushe is a LGBTQ-owned online marketplace that features a curated collection of sustainable, eco-friendly, and ethically made products. From clothing and accessories to home goods and beauty products, Noushe offers a platform for conscious consumers to support ethical businesses.
Lucky Iron Fish is a social enterprise that produces a small iron fish-shaped tool, which can be used to add dietary iron to cooking and alleviate iron deficiency. With a focus on social impact, they work towards improving global health while incorporating ethical practices such as fair trade and responsible sourcing of materials.
Paulo's Cake Shop is a LGBTQ-owned bakery that specializes in custom cakes and baked goods for various occasions. With a commitment to quality ingredients and exceptional craftsmanship, they create delicious and visually stunning treats that cater to diverse tastes and celebrations.
Happy Tears is a LGBTQ-owned company that creates inclusive and thoughtful greeting cards for a variety of occasions. They celebrate diverse identities and relationships, offering a range of heartwarming and beautifully designed cards that spread love, joy, and support.
Rendezvous is a LGBTQ-owned fragrance company that creates artisanal scents with a focus on sustainability and ethical practices. Their fragrances are crafted using natural ingredients, and they offer a range of gender-inclusive and cruelty-free perfumes and candles.
LGBTQ+ Entrepreneurship and Social Activism
CGLCC
The Canadian Gay & Lesbian Chamber of Commerce (CGLCC) is an organization that advocates for LGBTQ+ businesses and entrepreneurs in Canada. They support the growth and success of LGBTQ+ entrepreneurs by providing resources, networking opportunities, and a platform for connecting with like-minded professionals.
International Day of Pink
The Day of Pink is an international anti-bullying initiative that promotes diversity, inclusivity, and awareness. The website provides information, resources, and ways to participate in the event, which aims to create safe and inclusive environments for all individuals, regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity.
OUT For Business Youth Entrepreneur
The OUT For Business Youth Entrepreneur program supports a select group of 2SLGBTQI+ youth entrepreneurs each year. Connecting current business leaders in the 2SLGBTQI+ community with the next generation of leaders to provide them support and guidance in growing their businesses.
LGBTQ+ Focused Charities
The 519
The 519 is a leading LGBTQ+ community center in Toronto, offering a wide range of services and programs. They provide support and resources for LGBTQ+ individuals, including counseling, housing support, employment services, and recreational activities. The organization also advocates for LGBTQ+ rights, conducts research, and hosts events that promote inclusivity and social justice.
Fife House
Fife House is a non-profit organization based in Toronto, Canada, that provides supportive housing and support services for individuals living with HIV/AIDS. They offer a range of programs including transitional housing, long-term housing, and community support services to help individuals maintain their health, well-being, and independence. Fife House aims to create a safe and inclusive environment where people living with HIV/AIDS can thrive and access the support they need.
Friends of Ruby
Friends of Ruby is a Canadian organization that supports LGBTQ+ youth by providing safe and inclusive housing, counseling, and support services. They offer a range of programs including emergency shelter, transitional housing, mental health support, and community engagement to help LGBTQ+ youth build resilience, self-empowerment, and create a brighter future.
Rainbow Railroad
Rainbow Railroad is a non-profit organization dedicated to helping LGBTQ+ individuals escape persecution and violence in their home countries. They provide support, resources, and travel assistance to help individuals relocate to safer environments where they can live authentically and without fear of discrimination or harm.
Ten Oaks Project
Ten Oaks Project is a Canadian organization that supports and empowers children and youth in LGBTQ+ communities through camps, programs, and initiatives, creating inclusive spaces for personal growth and belonging.
Toronto People with AIDS Foundation
PWA is a charitable organization that supports individuals living with HIV/AIDS in Toronto, Canada. They offer a wide range of services including healthcare support, counseling, housing assistance, and advocacy. PWA Toronto is committed to enhancing the quality of life for people living with HIV/AIDS and raising awareness about HIV prevention and education.
LGBTQ+ History and Cultural Resources
Glad Day Bookshop
Glad Day Bookshop is a LGBTQ+ bookstore located in Toronto, Canada. It is the world's oldest LGBTQ+ bookstore and offers a wide range of books, magazines, and other literary materials that cater to diverse queer experiences and perspectives. They also host events, workshops, and community gatherings to promote LGBTQ+ literature and culture.
Queer Events (QE)
The QBIPoC Visibility resource page on Queer Events provides a platform to celebrate and highlight the experiences, achievements, and challenges faced by Queer, Black, Indigenous, and People of Color individuals within the LGBTQ+ community. It aims to promote inclusivity, raise awareness, and foster a deeper understanding of the unique perspectives and contributions of QBIPoC individuals within queer culture.
Inside Out Festival
The Inside Out Festival is an annual LGBTQ+ film festival held in Toronto, Canada. It showcases a diverse selection of films, documentaries, and shorts that explore LGBTQ+ experiences and stories. The festival provides a platform for raising awareness, fostering dialogue, and promoting understanding of LGBTQ+ issues through the medium of film. A valuable opportunity for audiences to engage with thought-provoking films that contribute to a greater understanding of LGBTQ+ identities, challenges, and triumphs.
Recommended articles/books for discussion
Idea! Share one of the below articles, read a book or watch a film then meet for coffee/lunch to discuss in small groups at the office.
"Hiring Across Spectrums" This resource focuses on the importance of inclusive hiring practices for LGBTQ+ individuals. It provides insights into understanding the challenges faced by LGBTQ+ job seekers, offers strategies for creating inclusive job postings and interview processes, and emphasizes the benefits of diverse and inclusive workplaces.
Creating a Trans-Inclusive Workplace This article discusses strategies and best practices for fostering a workplace environment that is inclusive and supportive of transgender individuals. It provides insights into understanding transgender experiences, implementing policies and practices, and promoting a culture of respect and acceptance.
Book: "The Gay Revolution: The Story of the Struggle" by Lillian Faderman chronicles the LGBTQ+ rights movement in America, from the pre-Stonewall era to the present day. Faderman offers a comprehensive account of the struggles, triumphs, and key moments in LGBTQ+ history, providing valuable insights into the fight for equality and the individuals who paved the way for change.
Raised80s can help with bulk orders of books and even add in custom pages at the front with a message from your leader etc.