Everyone deserves the freedom to be their authentic selves and have every opportunity to participate in Canada's economic, social and political life. A society where people are safe, valued, and empowered to reach their full potential is one where everyone thrives.
Today, the Honourable Steven Guilbeault, Minister of Canadian Culture and Identity, Parks Canada and Quebec Lieutenant, who is responsible for the Department for Women and Gender Equality, announced up to $718,000 for three Québec-based organizations. This funding will support their community-informed initiatives that address barriers and facilitate systemic change by developing knowledge, tools, and support for 2SLGBTQI+ communities in Québec and across Canada.
- Groupe régional d'intervention sociale de l'Estrie (GRIS Estrie) is receiving $228,511 for their project Awareness and Engagement in Rural Communities that will address the barriers to equality faced by 2SLGBTQI+ communities in the Haut-Saint-François region by collaborating with frontline workers and gender-diverse individuals. Through tailored tools, training, and activities, the project will raise awareness and inspire similar initiatives in other rural areas.
- With an investment of $241,743, the project Helping 2SLGBTQI+ Youth Thrive and Addressing HIV Through More Inclusive Sex Education by the Portail VIH/SIDA du Québec will use research, workshops, and practical tools to enhance public understanding, provide tailored resources, and recommend improvements to better support 2SLGBTQI+ youth in sexual health education.
- Queer Tech is receiving up to $247,221 for the project 2SLGBTQI+ Tech Industry Census 2025-2026 to conduct an in-depth industry analysis of the status of 2SLGBTQI+ tech professionals in Canada via a national quantitative survey and qualitative interviews. It will provide critical data on the representation of 2SLGBTQI+ professionals in the tech ecosystem and their experience in the workplace.
This funding builds on the foundation of the 2SLGBTQI+ Federal Action Plan that was announced in August 2022. The Action Plan continues to advance the rights and equality of 2SLGBTQI+ communities in Canada. Through this 2SLGBTQI+ project funding, the Government of Canada is addressing persisting disparities faced by these communities and building a safer, more inclusive country.
