Capilano University partners with Qmunity to deliver Gender Diversity and Queer Inclusivity learning pilot program
News release: CapU partners with Qmunity for Gender Diversity Queer Inclusivity training (PDF)
North Vancouver B.C. December 5, 2022 – Capilano University (CapU) is collaborating with QMUNITY – a non-profit organization that works to improve queer, trans and Two-Spirit lives – to deliver a Gender Diversity and Queer Inclusivity learning program for members of the CapU community. The pilot program marks the first partnership of its kind between QMUNITY and a post-secondary institution in B.C.
“This new education and training program for CapU employees will be delivered as a series of sessions designed to empower people through connection, shared values, and a common vision of equity and inclusion of the 2SLGBTQIA+ community,” said Daniel Levangie, associate vice president, Student Success at CapU. “The program is an important part of CapU’s commitment to grow our culture of equity, diversity and inclusion in our operations and outreach.”
Using a train the trainer approach, this unique and innovative learning model sets out to strengthen relationships and enhance inclusivity. The model uses a four-phase approach to educate and build a team of Community Knowledge Facilitators at CapU.
Program timeline
| Phase One November 2022 |
Launch of asynchronous online course |
|---|---|
| Phase Two January 2023 |
In-person workshops facilitated by QMUNITY |
| Phase Three March 2023 |
Queer learning circles workshop facilitated by QMUNITY |
| Phase Four September 2023 |
Online learning open to students, in-person learning cohorts for students and all employees begins |
"This coming together of a post-secondary educational institution and a provincial resource centre for queer, trans and Two-Spirit individuals is among the first of its kind in North America,” said Tracy London, co-executive director of QMUNITY. “Our training program uses a restorative justice approach to queer inclusivity training, delivered through an online platform and experiential queer learning circles.”
Phases one to three, for CapU employees only, will prepare a core team of Community Knowledge Facilitators to mentor and train future cohorts of students and employees at the university. The training aims to increase awareness and foster confidence in supporting queer individuals, recognize and celebrate Two-Spirit people, and facilitate active bystander and transformative conflict awareness.
About Capilano University
Capilano University is a teaching-focused university based in North Vancouver, British Columbia, with additional programming serving the Sunshine Coast and the Sea-to-Sky corridor. With industry-leading instructors, small classes and over 100 programs across five distinctive faculties, CapU is a unique place where students are encouraged to make their mark, in and out of the classroom. Capilano University is named after Sa7plek (Chief Joe Capilano), an important leader of the Skwxwú7mesh (Squamish) Nation of the Coast Salish Peoples. We respectfully acknowledge that our campuses are located on the territories of the LíỈwat, xʷməθkʷəỷəm (Musqueam), shíshálh (Sechelt), Skwxwú7mesh (Squamish) and SəỈílwətaʔ/Selilwitulh (Tsleil-Waututh) Nations.
About QMUNITY
QMUNITY, BC’s queer, trans, and Two-Spirit resource centre improves the lives of the 2SLGBTQAI+ community and provides a safe space and serves as a catalyzer for community initiatives and collective strength.
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For more information, or to schedule interviews, please contact:
Linda Munro
Capilano University
t: 604 220 8937
e: lindamunro@capilanou.ca
www.capilanou.ca
Michael Robach
Qmunity
t: 604 684-5307 (ext. 102)
e: michael.robach@qmunity.ca
www.qmunity.ca
Submitted by: Communications