Positive Space Workshops are 3-hour information sessions that will help you build practical skills and knowledge to counter homophobia, transphobia, and heterosexism in college settings. The sessions provide an introduction to 2SLGBTQ+ culture, cover common myths and terms, illustrate the important role of an ally, and give you a chance to discuss case studies in an open, respectful environment. These sessions also provide you with resources and materials so that you can act as a Positive Space resource person.
Workshops are offered to all employees 2-3 times per year. After the workshop, participants can choose to display their Positive Space logo. For more information, check the employee learning portal for current offerings or email positivespace@algonquincollege.com.
The Positive Space campaign focuses on education and visibility as a response to 2SLGBTQ+ marginalization. One result of marginalization based on sexual orientation and gender identity is that many 2SLGBTQ+people remain closeted for fear of repercussions of coming out (e.g. rejection, harassment, humiliation, or being “outed”). For some students, their high school provided a visible and supportive campus climate, and they expect the same at Algonquin College. For others, college or being in Canada is their first platform in the adult world in which they will come out. This time can be difficult and confusing for these students, and offering support and access to resources can ease the process.
Displaying the Positive Space logo in your workspace indicates your completion of the positive space workshop and general support of the campaign. On the reverse, under What can I do? several specific actions are listed:
- Attend the Positive Space Training
- Talk about gender and sexual diversity. Visibility and open dialogue are essential.
- Challenge derogatory comments against individuals who are (or are perceived to be) 2SLGBTQ+.
- Lend support and provide a resource.
- Provide feedback, suggestions or assistance so that the campaign can offer the best possible support to our students, staff and faculty.
Should you be approached by an individual who needs support beyond what you can provide, please refer them to an appropriate resource.
Please note, the absence of a Positive Space logo in a workplace does not suggest that the individual who works there is not inclusive of 2SLGBTQ+ individuals. There are many reasons why logos are not displayed in all workspaces on campus. Some individuals may not be familiar with the campaign or available to attend a workshop. Many staff and faculty share workspace and therefore cannot ensure that their co-workers have been trained or share their conviction. It could also indicate that, although supportive of 2SLGBTQ+individuals, some people do not feel prepared enough to speak on these issues.
On Campus Resources
Algonquin College Ombudsman
The Algonquin College Ombudsman is available to address any student complaints, including harassment, discrimination or bullying.
Contact the Ombudsman
Counselling Services (3rd Floor, Student Commons)
Counselling Services offers confidential supportive counselling for a variety of issues that are unique to sexual and gender minority students. You can talk with any of our Positive Space trained counsellors regarding:
- Questioning your sexuality or gender identity
- Coming out to friends and family
- Bridging to peer supports within the College
- Resources for students dealing with harassment or bullying, heterosexism or bi-, trans- or homophobia
- Interpersonal conflicts
- Relationship issues
- Mental health, substance abuse, or suicidal thoughts or feelings
Walk-In/Contact Us
AC Students Association Club
AC Students Association has a student run club and resource listing available to students. https://www.algonquinsa.com/studentlife/2slgbtq-resources/
Off-Campus Resources
- Kind Space: A not-for-profit registered charity and social service agency providing peer support, educational, research, and advocacy services for all gay, lesbian, bisexual, trans, two-spirit, and queer (GLBTTQ) persons in the National Capital Region.
Youth Line: LGBT YouthLine is a *2SLGBTQ+ youth-led organization that affirms and supports the experiences of youth (29 and under) across Ontario. We do this by:
- Providing anonymous peer support and referrals;
- Training youth to provide support to other youth; and
- Providing resources so youth can make informed decisions. https://www.youthline.ca/
