Welcome
Through extensive consultation with our stakeholders, we have structured our priorities and outcomes under five focus areas:
Our education programs will include initiatives aimed at educating the public and schools about LGBTQ+ issues, promoting LGBTQ+ history and culture, providing LGBTQ+ resources, and support for LGBTQ+ students and educators. Examples of specific programs will include social media campaigns highlighting LGBTQ+ terminology, contributions and issues; cultural competency training for educators and youth service providers; and online resources for LGBTQ+ youth and their families.
Over the next two years our advocacy focus will involve initiatives aimed at advocating for LGBTQ+ rights, safety, and equality within Bermuda’s education system. Examples of specific programs will include lobbying for LGBTQ+ sensitive policies in schools; organizing cross-sector support of LGBTQ+ student and teacher issues; and partnering with other advocacy organizations to support common goals.
Our focus on safety will involve initiatives such as 'Safe Zone' trainings to ensure workplaces and businesses are safe spaces for LGBTQ+ staff, clients, and customers. Another safety initiative is the development of a 'Welcoming Schools' training program which aims to make public and private high schools safe spaces for LGBTQ+ students, educators and parents by offering professional development trainings to educators and school admin.
Community building programs will include initiatives aimed at building a sense of community among LGBTQ+ individuals and providing opportunities for social connection and support. Examples of specific programs we’ll be developing over the next year include social events for LGBTQ+ adults or families; our safe zone allyship initiatives aimed at creating safe and inclusive public spaces for LGBTQ+ individuals; peer support groups; offering LGBTQ+ movie nights, as well as planning and producing Bermuda Pride
We will also look to create initiatives and opportunities that empower LGBTQ+ Bermudians and residents to live full and authentic lives, achieve their goals, and advocate for themselves and their communities. Examples of specific programs will include establishing an LGBTQ+ education bursary, empowering volunteers to plan and produce Bermuda Pride 2023 events; providing free 1:1 counseling to support our community's mental health; and social media campaigns aimed at promoting self-care and mental health among LGBTQ+ individuals LGBTQ+ individuals.
