2SLGBTQIA+ Inclusion

2SLGBTQIA+ is an acronym that stands for Two-Spirit, Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer or Questioning, Intersex, Asexual, and additional sexual orientations and gender identities.

Apply to Join the Community Advisory Group

What does 2SLGBTQIA+ Inclusion mean? 

2SLGBTQIA+ is an acronym that stands for Two-Spirit, Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer or Questioning, Intersex, Asexual, and additional sexual orientations and gender identities.

2SLGBTQIA+ Inclusion is identifying and removing challenges by addressing the unique needs of 2SLGBTQIA+ people so they can fully participate in social, cultural, spiritual, and economic life along with everyone else in the Squamish Nation. This includes (not limited to) raising awareness, making changes to physical spaces, and adjusting how we interact with one another.

On this page:

 

 

About the Logo

“I have created this piece for the 2SLGBTQIA+ inclusion initiative for the Squamish Nation. The work was done in collaboration with the Community Advisory Group (CAG) and together we ensured the piece would capture the essence and the intent of the initiative. It is a depiction of a Thunderbird with embracing wings which also take the shape of a heart. The image itself is sprawled across the 2SLGBTQIA+ flag.

The Thunderbird is the official emblem representing the Squamish Nation and the image itself, with the heart shaped wings are to represent that the love and care of the Sḵwx̱wú7mesh ulh is love for all.

Our history tells us we were great stewards and protectors of our lands and our rights, but we were also very loving and caring people, we have many unifying phrases in our language such as “Nch’u7mut” – Together as one, one heart one mind, or “Chenchenstway” – Helping one another, uplifting one another, working together.

These morals are and should be upheld and spread across all communities in our nation by each and everyone of us we as Sḵwx̱wú7mesh people have always and should continue to live as one.” – Calvin Charlie-Dawson, Artist

Join the Community Advisory Group

Are you passionate about advocating for 2SLGBTQIA+ inclusion, rights, and issues?

The 2SLGBTQIA+ Inclusion Initiative Community Advisory Group (CAG) is looking for three (3) community members to contribute their leadership, expertise, and advice to the Nation. Honorariums will be provided.

Apply to join the 2SLGBTQIA+ Inclusion Initiative Community Advisory Group by Wednesday, April 3, 2024 at 9:00 am (NEW DATE).

Click here to apply, or download an printable application form.

Choose one of four ways to submit your application:

  • Complete an online application form.
  • Find a printed form in the Squamish Nation printed newsletters, or print this form, and submit your application:
    • Drop off your completed application form at Totem Hall reception (1380 Stawamus Road, Squamish), Ayás Mén̓men (Child & Family Services) reception (Unit 2, 380 Welch Street, West Vancouver), or the Main Band Office reception (320 Seymour Boulevard, North Vancouver).
    • Mail your application to PO Box 86131 North Vancouver, BC V7L 4J5, Attn: 2SLGBTQIA+ Inclusion Initiative.
  • Ask for support with completing your application, or find an alternative way to apply by contacting the Main Office at 604-980-4553 or email twospiritinclusion@squamish.net

You may also include your cover letter and resume. Application deadline is Wednesday, April 3, 2024 (NEW DATE) at 9:00 am.

If you have any questions, call 604-980-4553 (please ask for the 2SLGBTQIA+ Inclusion Initiative) or email twospiritinclusion@squamish.net.

Upcoming Events

Nch’u7mut Blanketing Ceremony – NEW DATE

Let’s uphold and celebrate Sḵwx̱wú7mesh people who identify as Two-Spirit, Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer or Questioning, Intersex, Asexual and additional sexual orientations and gender identities (2SLGBTQIA+). Our ceremony will provide a safe place for love and acceptance. All are welcome.

Wednesday, March 27, 2024 | 5:00 pm – 8:00 pm 
Chief Joe Mathias Centre (100 Capilano Road, West Vancouver)

Participate in this Ceremony:

If you are a Sḵwx̱wú7mesh Member or family member of someone who identifies as 2SLGBTQIA+, you are invited to take part in this blanketing ceremony whether this is your first time, or you have participated in the past. Please feel free to invite people who love and support you to attend.

You may bring the following, if you’d like:

  • A blanket to stand on. A blanket and headband will be provided, but you are free to bring your own.
  • A basket of items for a giveaway (handmade crafts or purchase)

We will have everything you need to participate fully including people who will support you.

Meal, transportation, Guardians, and supports will be available.

For questions and to register, contact Stephanie Watts at Stephanie_Watts@squamish.net or 604-985-4111.

Agenda

  • 5:00 pm Opening and tables set
  • 6:00 pm Ceremony and blanketing to begin at
  • 7:00 pm Closing speakers
  • 8:00 pm Giveaways and closing

Transportation – North Shore schedule

  • 4:00 pm Seymore IR Mailboxes
  • 4:20 pm Eslha7an L.C.
  • 4:25 pm Mission Road & 1st Street
  • 4:45 pm Jacob & Jacobs
  • 4:50 pm Mathias & Rivers
  • 4:55 pm Ikwikws Road & Skawshen Road

Transportation – Squamish Valley schedule

  • 3:00 pm Cheekeye (Lewis Drive)
  • 3:15 pm Waiwakum Teen Centre
  • 3:30 pm Kowtain (Fortune Kitchen)
  • 3:40 pm Yekwapsum (Dike Trail Entrance)
  • 3:55 pm Stawamus (Totem Hall)
  • 4:00 pm Leave Totem Hall

Project Progress

  • Assessing spaces and facilities, including washrooms, to improve the experience of 2SLGBTQIA+ community members
  • Holding regular Community Advisory Group meetings since November 2022
  • Engaging community members at events including Squamish Nation Pride, Salmon Festival, and Squamish Nation open houses
  • Worked with Calvin Charlie-Dawson to design a logo that captures the essence and the intent of the 2SLGBTQIA+ initiative
  • Conducted a consultation process with an online survey (March 2023) and five in-person engagement sessions (June 2023) on gender and sexual diversity with the guidance of the
  • Community Advisory Group members and support of TransFocus Consulting
  • Obtained the community’s input on the icon to be used for the all-gender washroom signage

If you have any questions about this project, please email twospiritinclusion@squamish.net.

  • Invite community members to join the Community Advisory Group (Three positions available as of early 2024)
  • Share key findings and recommendations issued from the survey and community engagement sessions with Council and community
  • Continue to engage and raise awareness during events and gatherings
  • Work with the Community Advisory Group, staff and community members to address challenges and needs of 2SLGBTQIA+ community members

If you have any questions about this project, please email twospiritinclusion@squamish.net.