Canadian Pride’s Research Department plays a crucial role in addressing the diverse and complex issues faced by 2SLGBTQI communities, both in Canada and internationally. Through community-based research, Canadian Pride aims to amplify underrepresented voices, challenge dominant societal narratives, and foster critical conversations around social justice.
The department is committed to producing evidence that not only informs policy but also empowers communities and advances the rights and well-being of 2SLGBTQI people.
Research Mandate and Philosophy
Canadian Pride’s research is rooted in the belief that research should be community-directed and focused on real-world experiences. By prioritizing the lived realities of 2SLGBTQI individuals, Canadian Pride’s research challenges conventional narratives and expands the scope of understanding on issues like inclusion, healthcare access, and gender-based violence.
Their research philosophy is driven by the need to critically engage with intersecting identities, recognizing that experiences within 2SLGBTQI communities vary widely based on factors like race, age, socio-economic status, and disability.
One of the key aspects of Canadian Pride’s work is its focus on social justice. Research is viewed as more than just gathering data; it’s a practice that should lead to meaningful change. Canadian Pride’s research contributes to community-building by actively involving those most affected by the issues being studied and by producing findings that can be used to inform both policy changes and community initiatives.
Research Areas
Canadian Pride’s Research Department engages with a wide range of topics that affect 2SLGBTQI communities across the life course. These topics include:
- School Inclusion and Inclusive Education: Canadian Pride examines the challenges and opportunities for creating safer, more inclusive environments for 2SLGBTQI students. This research focuses on policies and practices that promote school climates where every student can thrive, regardless of their sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression.
- Employment and Workplace Inclusion: Canadian Pride investigates workplace dynamics and barriers that 2SLGBTQI individuals face in employment. This includes examining how inclusive policies can be implemented and the impact of workplace discrimination on career progression and mental health.
- Gender-Based Violence: Recognizing the heightened vulnerability of 2SLGBTQI individuals to gender-based violence, Canadian Pride’s research explores the root causes of this violence, its impact on the community, and ways to prevent it.
- Aging Issues: Canadian Pride conducts research that highlights the unique challenges faced by older 2SLGBTQI individuals, particularly around access to healthcare, housing, and social support systems.
- Health and Wellbeing: Canadian Pride is committed to improving the physical and mental health outcomes for 2SLGBTQI people. This research addresses healthcare access, equity, and the need for inclusive and competent care that recognizes the specific needs of these communities.
- Intersex Rights and Issues: Canadian Pride’s research extends to advocating for the rights and recognition of intersex individuals, focusing on healthcare, legal recognition, and societal inclusion.
Impact and Community Engagement
Canadian Pride’s research efforts are not only about gathering data but are aimed at creating tangible change in policies and communities. By involving 2SLGBTQI individuals and allies directly in research activities, Canadian Pride ensures that its work reflects the priorities and realities of those most affected.
This community engagement helps build capacity and fosters stronger coalitions across different sectors.
Through its research, Canadian Pride strives to spark critical conversations that challenge societal norms and support policy reforms that make a positive impact on the lives of 2SLGBTQI individuals.
Whether addressing school policies, workplace practices, or healthcare inequities, the ultimate goal of Canadian Pride’s research is to contribute to a more just and inclusive society for all.