Sixth annual Muskoka Pride Conference focuses on strengthening Q-munity

Conference focuses on Queer mental health, new Trans Health Service, and Being LGBTQ in the Muskoka workforce

For the sixth year, Muskoka Pride is hosting a conference looking at issues concerning the LGBTQ community of Muskoka.

The sixth annual Muskoka Pride Conference – “Strengthening Q-munity” – will be held on Thursday, November 8th at the Residence Inn by Marriott in Gravenhurst. This year’s conference features many sessions related to the LGBTQ community of Muskoka.

For Shawn Forth, board member of Muskoka Pride, the conference represents how far the organization has grown. “Eight years ago, we were still working to have the Rainbow Flag raised in Muskoka. At this year’s conference we have presenters from across Muskoka highlighting the many supports that now exist within our community.”

Forth stressed the importance of the conference for LGBTQ residents and tourists of Muskoka. “This conference is geared for students, health care providers, social workers, educators – people on the frontlines working with the public. We want their LGBTQ clients to feel welcomed, with inclusive language and informed professionals.”

This year’s keynote is being presented by Michelle Emson, filmmaker and international human rights activist. She will be sharing her personal journey as a trans-identified woman. Other highlights include: the new North Simcoe Trans Health service, a presentation looking at mental health in the Queer community, presentations by services within Muskoka, and a community panel of LGBTQ-identified individuals about being “out” in the Muskoka workforce.

Those interested in registering can go to the Muskoka Pride website (www.muskokapride.com) and register online. The cost is $20, which includes all workshops and lunch. Scholarships are also available, thanks to sponsorship from OPSEU Rainbow Alliance.

For further information about all Muskoka Pride events, go to our website or visit the Muskoka Pride Facebook Page (www.facebook.com/muskokapride).

Don’t miss out on Doppler! Sign up for our free newsletter here.