​​Pride 2024​

The City of Brampton is proud to celebrate Pride 2024 presented by TD.

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​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​Every year during the month of June, we recognize Pride Month. This is an opportunity to learn about the unique cultures and histories of groups within the 2SLGBTQIA+ community and acknowledge the achievements and contributions of people from the 2SLGBTQIA+ community have made in the vibrant mosaic of Canada.​​

The acronym to describe the 2SLGBTQIA+ community has evolved over time to be more inclusive and representative of different gender identities and sexual orientations. But do you know which group each letter represents in this vibrant community? Take some time to learn now!​​

What Does Each Letter Stand For?
2S
Two-Spirit
An Indigenous-specific term used by some to describe complex experiences and identities related to gender and/or sexual orientation. Depending on the individual and/or their Nation, it may also encompass specific cultural roles and responsibilities.
L
Lesbian
Those who identify as either a woman or non-binary person, and who experience attraction to the same or similar genders (women and/or non-binary people).
G
Gay
Those who identify as either a man or non-binary person, and who experience attraction to the same or similar genders (men and/ or non-binary people).
B
Bisexual
Those who experience attraction to the same or similar genders and genders that differ from their own. This can include attraction to men, women and/or non-binary people.
T
Transgender
A person whose gender identity differs from that typically associated with the sex they were assigned at birth (i.e., a person who identifies as a man but was assigned female at birth).
Q
Queer
An umbrella term that encompasses the fluidity and expansiveness of any non-cisgender, non-heterosexual identity, relationship, behaviour or desire. This term has more recently been reclaimed by some, however its original definition of 'odd, strange, or peculiar' has historically been used as a slur to insult and alienate 2SLGBTQIA+ people.
Questioning
Describes the experience of reflecting on and exploring one's gender identity, gender expression, sexual orientation, relationship style or other identities in connection to the 2SLGBTQIA+ community.
I
Intersex
An umbrella term to describe a wide range of natural variations that affect genitals, gonads, hormones, chromosomes or reproductive organs. Sometimes these characteristics are visible at birth, sometimes they appear at puberty and sometimes they are not physically apparent at all.
A
Asexual
A person who experiences a complete or partial lack of sexual attraction or lack of interest in sexual activity with others. Asexuality exists on a spectrum and asexual people may experience no, little or conditional sexual attraction.
Aromantic
A person who has little or no romantic feeling towards others and experiences little or no romantic desire or attraction.
Agender
A person who does not identify as having a gender, is gender neutral, has little experience of a gender or who has an unidentifiable gender.
+
Other identities that are represented by this acronym
Bigender, Demi-Guy/Man, Demi-Girl/Woman, Genderfluid, Genderqueer, Pansexual, Third Gender, etc.
All other diverse gender identities, expressions and sexual orientations that are specific to other cultures.

Be an ally and promote visibility and inclusion of those with diverse genders and sexual orientations in our community and beyond. Learn some ways to dispel myths and stereotypes about 2SLGBTQIA+ identities, experiences and expressions below.

Tips on How to Be Inclusive of the 2SLGBTQIA+ Community

While this isn't an exhaustive list, it is a good place to start:

  • Ask someone who belongs to a specific group which terms are the most current and inclusive. This includes using the pronouns and name a person goes by even if they differ from identification or other documents.
  • Avoid 'outing', or openly revealing someone's gender identity or sexual orientation, unless clear consent has been granted by that person. Individuals may feel comfortable being open about their identities in some situations but not in others.
  • Ensure that all washroom and changing facilities at events, in workplaces, and in recreation environments are safely and comfortably accessible by people of all genders.
  • Review policies and procedures to ensure they are inclusive in language, intention and application for all staff regardless of gender identity, gender expression or sexual orientation. Where gaps and opportunities have been identified, seek input from the 2SLGBTQIA+ community during the revision process.
  • Participate in learning opportunities that provide information about the 2SLGBTQIA+ community, connections to socioeconomic determinants of health and relevant legislation.
  • Learn more about the unique history and culture of different groups within the 2SLGBTQIA+ community.
  • Work collaboratively with 2SLGBTQIA+ organizations and community members to identify issues and find solutions that equitably address the needs of the community.
  • Support 2SLGBTQIA+ specific events and include organizations that work with 2SLGBTQIA+ groups at community-wide events.
  • Stay up to date on issues impacting the 2SLGBTQIA+ community locally and internationally as they relate to human rights, legislation, safety, mental health and healthcare among others.​

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Organizations Serving the 2SLGBTQIA+ Community

Contact the Equity Office

Corporation of the City of Brampton,
2 Wellington Street West,
Brampton, ON, L6Y 4R2

Land Acknowledgement

The City of Brampton is located on the traditional territories of the Mississaugas of the Credit, Haudenosaunee, and Wendat Nations who have called this land home since time immemorial. We acknowledge the agreements made in Treaty 19 — the Ajetance Purchase of 1818 — and are committed to our ongoing role in reconciliation through meaningful action rooted in truth, justice, and respect. We are grateful to the original caretakers of this land who have ensured we are able to work, play, and live in Brampton now and in the future.