Diversity Snapshot GLBT — Equity and Inclusion Lens

Diversity Snapshot GLBT (gay, lesbian, bi-sexual, trans)

We are fabulous! We are gay, lesbian, bi-sexual, trans and two-spirited. We are parents, grandparents, professionals, workers and students. We are part of every aspect of our city, contributing every day – even if you may not know it.

1. Who we are ...... 3 Respectful language ...... 3 Trans people...... 4 2. Contributions we make ...... 5 3. Barriers and inequities...... 6 1) Heterosexism and homophobia...... 6 2) Transphobia...... 6 3) Coming out and being outed...... 6 4) Harassment, bullying, violence, and hate crimes...... 7 5) Discrimination ...... 7 6) Workplace...... 8 7) Invisibility...... 8 8) Safe spaces...... 8 9) Access to services and facilities ...... 9 10) Sexism, racism, and conservatism ...... 10 4. We envision – a GLBT-friendly city...... 11 What can I do?...... 11 5. Council mandates and legislation...... 12 6. What’s happening in ...... 12 7. Relevant practices in other cities...... 12 8. Sources...... 13 9. Definitions...... 14 10. Acknowledgments ...... 16

This document is one of 11 Diversity Snapshots that serve as background information to aid the City of Ottawa and its partners in implementing the Equity and Inclusion Lens. To access, visit Ozone or contact us at [email protected].

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1. Who we are RESPECTFUL We are fabulous! We are part of every aspect of LANGUAGE our city, contributing every day – even if you may not know it. Some of us are working people, You may have come across the parents, grandparents or youth. Some of us identify variations of “GLBTTTIQQ” (gay, as women, as men, as both, and some of us identify lesbian, bisexual, transgender, as neither. Some of us are Aboriginal and may transsexual, two-spirited, intersex, identify as “two-spirit”. As two-spirit people, we like queer, questioning), such as to define ourselves and we don’t want to give up LGBT or GLBTTQ. any aspect of who we are to do that. (2-Spirited People of the 1st Nations 2008) Language is important to us The common statistics say one in ten people because it is our sense of are attracted to people of the same sex. However, respect for each other, and we the percentage or number of GLBT people in Ottawa do not necessarily all want to be is difficult to determine, partly because people’s lumped together. sexuality evolves over time or people self-identify This reflects our diversity and differently. But importantly, this is because we are efforts to celebrate many forms careful when we self-identify as GLBT in public of sexual orientation and gender (coming out) – for reasons of safety and for fear identities as part of human of being alienated from our families, friends, diversity. workplaces, or losing a child due to homophobia and transphobia (See Barriers). We welcome you to use the terms in this document – but also In this document, we use the acronym “GLBT” to be aware of the changing, as in the City of Ottawa’s Equity and Diversity dynamic debates around Policy. However, we recognize the ongoing language, and that some people lively debates about definitions within the GLBT may prefer one expression to communities – terms and their meanings change another. If you are not sure, ask: over time, or vary across cultures or generations. “How would you like to be addressed?”

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TRANS PEOPLE Trans people have existed in many societies Working with trans people– throughout history, though the term “transgender” What can I do? is used increasingly in North America in recent years. In this document, trans or transgender is used as an umbrella term to describe a wide range 3 Be discrete and professional. of identities and experiences (See Definitions). In the broadest sense, a trans person is someone 3 Address them in the gender who does not fit into society’s assigned gender that they are presenting in. categories. One trans person may feel that she or 3 Use gender-appropriate he is in the wrong body, identifying mentally and emotionally with the opposite gender, while another pronouns and names they go person may be comfortable identifying with both by. (If they are dressed as a genders – and yet another person may transcend woman then use female ones, or not buy into conventional gender categories of as a man use male ones.) man/woman. 3 Protect the person’s privacy People who describe themselves as trans may from others – or don’t out not feel, look, dress or behave in ways expected them without their explicit of women and men in a given culture. Not all permission. (Don’t tell others trans people seek sex reassignment surgery that they are about to meet a (transsexual). The key is to respect people’s self- trans person.) identity, preference and privacy, and not to apply one definition or label to every trans person. For 3 Make sure you know how example, use a gender pronoun consistent with they want to be addressed on a person’s stated preference (‘he’, ‘she’). If you the phone – just in case their don’t know their preference, ask. (Trans Alliance Society 2002; 2003). partner, family or roommates do not know about their gender identity.

3 Create a list of local sources that can be used.

(OPS 2005)

Gender identity is different from sexual orientation. Sexual orientation refers to emotional and sexual desires for others, whereas gender identity refers to the experience of who we are as a woman, man, both or neither. Trans people are straight, bisexual, lesbian or gay – just like anyone else. (See Definitions)

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2. Contributions we make QUICK FACTS We have contributed to making Ottawa a vibrant city and continue to do so – through everything from charities, to food services, to media, to politics, attracts about to businesses. 50,000 tourists annually. Health care: The gay community played an Canada’s first Hate Crimes essential role in advancing HIV/AIDS and hepatitis B Section was established in research (Falk 1989) as well as safer-sex programs. Ottawa in 1993, following the Harm-reduction programs such as public education strong mobilization of the GLBT to reduce stigma, anti-bullying policies in schools, community. and patient-controlled medical care delivery have Ottawa Police Services’ benefited the broader population such as cancer Liaison Committee for the GLBT and Alzheimer patients. Communities was one of the first Arts and culture: As artists, we enrich the arts and of its kind in Canada. It is now culture scene in the nation’s capital. Transgress at adopted as a model elsewhere. the Ottawa Writers Festival and Inside Out Ottawa- Ottawa’s GLBT community Gatineau LGBT Film Festival are among many contributed to the creation of the events that celebrate the GLBT artists’ creativity, AIDS Committee of Ottawa. while providing a venue for questioning conventional ideas about sex, gender and sexuality. Capital Abiwin Co-op in Centretown was Pride brings together GLBT people from Ottawa, created as a nonprofit, GLBT- Gatineau, Montreal and , and surrounding friendly housing for gay and smaller cities and rural communities. It creates a straight people. safe space for GLBT people and those of us who are not able to be “out” in our day-to-day lives. The (OPS 2009; Capital Pride 2008) Pride festival empowers us to celebrate being who we are, and welcomes straight and non-trans people to join the celebration. Human rights: Canada’s first gay and lesbian demonstration was held in Ottawa in 1971 (with a simultaneous one in Vancouver), led by Ottawa’s community leaders. (York University 2003) We also contributed to the creation of the human rights monument next to City Hall. As lesbian women, we helped create women’s shelters and sexual assault support services, challenged male privilege both in the GLBT community and the broader society, and presented wider possibilities for women’s roles.

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3. Barriers and inequities 1) Heterosexism and homophobia Almost all barriers GLBT people face come from the assumption that everyone is straight (heterosexism) and dislike of homosexual people (homophobia) in society. GLBT people encounter these barriers in their families, friends’ circles, social and public spaces, schools and workplaces. These affect them in different communities they are part of – such as seniors’ programs, youth camp, immigrant groups, disabilities communities, or neighbourhood associations. Most GLBT people also have to deal with their own internalized homophobia instilled since birth. This has great impact on their psychological well-being, physical safety, economic security, sense of belonging, and their human and COMING OUT civic rights as fully contributing members of society. Recognizing that one is attracted 2) Transphobia to the same sex, or that one has Transphobia is the dislike or fear of trans people, their own gender identity, and or those who do not fit into the conventional idea of starts to be open about it with gender (i.e. the notion that everyone is only either a other people. woman or a man). Often there is confusion between transphobia and homophobia. Trans people It can be a slow or fast process become the target of homophobia even if they are depending on their circumstances. actually straight; and gay, lesbian and bi people become the target of transphobia even if they are Outing – The public disclosure not trans. of another person’s sexual Sexism and gender stereotypes also contribute to orientation without that person’s transphobia. For instance, a male-to-female trans permission or knowledge. Outing woman who does not fit the typical ‘feminine’ look, is very disrespectful and is voice or characteristics may face negative reactions potentially dangerous to the outed from people who are not used to trans women. person. Many people do not understand why someone has a need to live as a different gender or to have a Ottawa GLBT residents who are transsexual surgery. Gender is an important part not out to their: of a person’s identity. This is felt acutely when • Children’s teachers (73 per cent) one’s gender identity does not match with the one • Own teachers (69 per cent) society assigned at birth, or when it does not fit with • Members of their place of society’s norm. (CAWU; Trans Alliance Society worship (55 per cent) 2002. (See Definitions) • Co-workers (53 per cent) • Friendly acquaintances 3) Coming out and being outed (49 per cent) • Boss/supervisor (47 per cent) GLBT people constantly make the careful decision • Other relatives (44 per cent) whether or not to come out, and to whom, in almost • Spiritual leader (43 per cent) every social interaction they encounter: on the phone, in the store or at a job interview. This is (2SP1N 2008) (PTS 2001) because homophobia or transphobia is so prevalent

A City for Everyone — 6 Diversity Snapshot GLBT — Equity and Inclusion Lens in our society. When they decide not to come out in a given situation, there is still the fear of being outed – and the potential homophobic reactions. Being out has very real safety implications, extending to social, emotional and physical consequences. People who are out may face negative judgement from others, gay bashing, or jeopardize their relationships with families and close friends. Some experience faith-based discrimination from their own religious or spiritual circles, or face workplace harassment. GLBT people may encounter homophobic comments and behaviours even when others are not aware that they identify as GLBT. Some people develop low self-esteem and depression as a result. This concern over being out can prevent someone from seeking proper medical care or reporting an abusive partner to police. For example, about 20 per cent of GLBT people in Ottawa, especially youth (56 per cent), are not out to their doctors (PTS 2001).

4) Discrimination Prejudices often manifest in discrimination in many aspects of everyday life. They can make it difficult for GLBT people to buy houses or rent apartments with their spouses or partners, or for GLBT parents to find appropriate child care or schooling for their children. Senior GLBT couples may not have had home ownership, marriage, employee benefits, pension plans, or life insurance policy with their partners, because historically the legal and social barriers had been much more challenging throughout most of their lives. When GLBT people have serious health problems, often their partners are prevented from receiving the private health information of the patient or making critical decisions for their partner. Often these rights are restricted to the patient’s biological or extended family members. Some people may be forced to leave their spiritual or cultural community due to homophobia in Higher rates of bullying, the group, or “pass” as straight or non-trans in order suicide and school to remain in the community. dropouts of GLBT youth are consequences of homophobic 5) Harassment, bullying and hate crimes attitudes among their peers Homophobic feelings can escalate to harassment, and in wider society. bullying, violence and hate crimes. This can happen in schools, on the street, at community gatherings and For many teenagers, even being workplaces, etc., and are often hard to distinguish from perceived to be GLBT, or being one another. friends with GLBT people, could The incident rate, types and severity of violence used make them a target of hate- against GLBT people are much higher than other non- related bullying. bias crimes (disproportionate harm). For example, one Lack of support available to in six cases of bullying in school related to homophobia GLBT youth who are discovering require hospitalization. However, it is often under- or defining their sexual and reported, partly due to the victim’s and the witnesses’ gender identity (e.g., services, fear of retaliation, or fear of stigmatization on the basis peers or role models) adds of homophobia or transphobia. (Justice Canada 1995) to the barriers they face.

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Such harassment and hate crimes also affect the other members of the GLBT community, as anyone in the community could be targeted based on their sexual orientation or gender identity.

6) Workplace GLBT people often experience barriers due to the lack of a safe work environment. Attitudinal barriers and prejudices about GLBT people have impact on everyday workplace interactions, job interviews and hiring practices of staff and volunteers. Lack of outreach to recruit and retain qualified workers and volunteers who identify as GLBT, or lack of clear messages to welcome GLBT people in the workplace can leave GLBT people feel unwelcome or made invisible. Lack of awareness about trans people can also be a barrier to employment. For example, interviewers may not know how to interview a trans candidate respectfully and fairly. This could prevent the candidate from getting the job, even if she or he is well qualified for the position. Lack of clear policies regarding inclusion are also employment barriers (Trans Alliance Society 2002).

7) Invisibility The invisibility of queer lives – or not being part of everyday life of the city – is a reflection of heterosexism and homophobia in society. A common heterosexist notion is that a family is made up of a dad (male), mom (female) and children. This ignores the realities and needs of families with two dads or two moms, GLBT couples, or grandparents who identify as GLBT. The experience of bisexual people is that they often become invisible as they are seen only as straight (if dating someone of the opposite sex) or gay/lesbian (if their partner is the same sex). Because of their invisibility in society, GLBT individuals often have to go out of their way to find access to basic services that are safe and appropriate to their situations. However, homophobia and transphobia add to the fear of being out (e.g., fear of a negative reaction from service providers, or damaging personal or social relationships), and the cycle of invisibility and lack of access to services continues. GLBT people with disabilities further experience invisibility, as people with disabilities are often assumed not to have sexuality or romantic desires.

8) Safe spaces Prejudices against GLBT people affect how they can behave or who they can be, as well as their safety in public spaces. Everyday acts like holding hands on the street, dancing with a boyfriend at a club, or kissing one’s spouse good-bye on the bus, can be a barrier for GLBT people, for these could trigger negative reactions or harassment by strangers. Homophobia reduces their access to safe public spaces to meet partners and develop healthy relationships. For trans people, safe and inclusive public spaces are often very limited: bathrooms, gyms, sports games, emergency shelters or sexual assault support services are commonly organized for women only or men only. In rural areas, GLBT people may not feel safe to come out in their neighbourhoods, and GLBT communities and GLBT-friendly services may not be visible or available.

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Aboriginal two-spirit people may not identify with the Euro-Canadian GLBT culture and groups, or their two-spirit identity may not be accepted in their home community, where imposed homophobia via colonization still has impact (2SP1N 1998). Visible-minority GLBT people or GLBT immigrants may experience difficulty finding a welcoming space that accepts both aspects of their identity as GLBT and their cultural backgrounds. Access to safe, GLBT-friendly spaces that can be used and enjoyed by all GLBT, trans, straight and non-trans people alike is important for creating an inclusive city.

9) Access to services and facilities Many GLBT community members are not getting the help they need, such as help with social isolation, depression, suicide ideation, substance abuse and safety concerns related to homophobia and transphobia (PTS 2001). GLBT cultural competency may not be incorporated into public health programs, school curricula or workplace cultures. Commercial services, religious ceremonies or family laws may not operate to include GLBT people. Many GLBT youth are expelled from their family homes after coming out to their parents. However, an adult shelter can be intimidating for youth, and a youth shelter may not be GLBT-friendly – and many find themselves homeless. Finding GLBT-related services in French is an added challenge for GLBT Francophones in Ottawa, including French-speaking immigrants who identify as GLBT. Gender-specific facilities often do not accommodate trans people. Even going to a washroom in the office or a changing room at a pool is a barrier, for the facility is not physically available or attitudinal barriers make it unwelcoming and unsafe. Some trans women may use the public washroom to change into feminine clothes or touch up their makeup in public washrooms, especially if they are not out in their home. However, other people may tell them that “they are in the wrong bathroom,” making assumptions about their gender identity and in some cases, wrongly reporting them for “harassment.”

WHY PRIDE? Most people grow up being taught to be ashamed of at least some aspect of “ ourselves and our lives. That’s especially true for LGBT people, and all those who aren’t part of the dominant culture. Throwing off this shame and learning to be proud is at the heart of pride movements. (CAWU) ”

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10) Sexism, racism and conservatism GLBT people experience many barriers and “isms” besides heterosexism, homophobia and transphobia. Sexism affects many lesbian and bi-women, as well as trans people who don’t fit the gender stereotypes. Women-only spaces in shelters or gender violence support groups may exclude trans women, even though they share the experience of gender-based discrimination. Two-spirit and visible-minority GLBT people may experience added feelings of marginalization, rejection or exclusion due to racism and racial prejudice within the GLBT community and in broader society, and may experience homophobia in their respective cultural communities as well as in mainstream society. Similarly, conservative beliefs related to heterosexual norms in certain religious groups can also alienate GLBT people from their religious and spiritual communities.

Sometimes I’ll be in a gay group, but they’re not racially sensitive. So that is “ uncomfortable. And it can be uncomfortable to be in an African-American group where they make rude remarks about gay people. And I think, gosh we’re really all in this together. It’s the same: racism, sexism, homophobia, all the same thing. (Youthline) ”

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4. We envision – a GLBT-friendly city WHAT CAN I DO?

➤ The City incorporates GLBT-inclusive 3Develop awareness about the language and approaches in everyday diversity, issues and service needs City business. of the GLBT community. ➤ GLBT communities are visibly or symbolically included in all civic initiatives 3Build knowledge of GLBT and events in the city. stakeholders in the community. (e.g., PTS, Capital Extra, To Be, ➤ GLBT people feel safe and welcomed Lambda) in the workplace, at a community centre, a store or City Hall. There are no 3Understand the negative impact assumptions that exclude GLBT people of homophobia, heterosexism and or compulsion to out us in public. transphobia. ➤ GLBT individuals can access and receive services, without complication or worrying 3Place “Positive Space” stickers on about potential homophobic or transphobic office doors or storefronts. Actively encounters. (e.g., health care, marriage indicate GLBT people are welcome services, housing, using changing and safe being who they are. rooms, etc.). 3Avoid viewing straight or non- ➤  When GLBT people experience trans culture as the norm. homophobia or transphobia, clear and efficient processes can help us access 3Use a broader definition of women the services we are seeking. or men that includes gay or ➤ Information on GLBT issues is visible and lesbian, bi, and trans people for a easily accessible through the City website gender-specific space or program. and mainstream services. 3Object when I see or hear ➤ Programs and services have clearly something that I think is relevant outcomes to GLBT communities. homophobic or transphobic (joke, ➤ Health centres can provide dignified, non- insult), even though it may be judgemental services to GLBT individuals unpopular. and address specific GLBT health issues. 3Know it’s okay to ask if I’m not ➤ Police are there to protect us, not sure what to say or do. harass us. ➤ Equitable hiring and career development 3And, if I identify as GLBT, I know practices are in place and implemented. that my knowledge and experience can enrich the city. ➤ The cure for homophobia is discovered. (CCHRC & PTS 2006)

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5. Council mandates and legislation • City of Ottawa Equity and Diversity Policy • Ontario Human Rights Code (Provincial) – Prohibited grounds of discrimination includes sexual orientation and sex (gender identity is covered under “sex”) • Employment Equity Act (Federal) – City of Ottawa provides annual status report on GLBT City employees.

6. What’s happening in Ottawa • City of Ottawa Equity and Diversity Advisory Committee (EDAC) – Works with the City on policies and programs affecting women, Aboriginal persons, members of visible- minority groups, and GLBT individuals and on the elimination of discrimination based on race, religion, gender and sexual orientation. • City of Ottawa Equity and Diversity Award Program – Recognizes individuals or teams who have demonstrated a clear commitment to making the City an inclusive workforce of individuals in all designated groups and creating a culture of respect and diversity. • Ottawa Police Service Liaison Committee for the Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual and Transgender (GLBT) Communities – Community-based crime prevention work by the GLBT community, police and criminal justice system representatives. • Pink Triangle Services (PTS) – Nonprofit agency providing peer support, educational, research and advocacy services for all gay, lesbian, bisexual, trans, two-spirit and queer (GLBTTQ) persons in the National Capital Region. • Capital Xtra – Ottawa’s gay, lesbian and trans media/newspaper. • Minwaashin Lodge - Aboriginal Women’s Support Centre: Services for Aboriginal women including a Two-Spirit women’s program. • Gender Mosaic of Ottawa – Support services for trans people and their partners. • Around the Rainbow – Support for GLBT families and allies in child care, preschools, schools and the community. • Carleton GLBTQ Centre for Sexual and Gender Diversity • Pride Centre of the Student Federation of University of Ottawa • L’Association des pères gais de l’Outaouais – French-speaking discussion and support group where members can discuss the experiences of gay fatherhood. • List of GLBT-related organizations: Capital Xtra

7. Relevant practices in other cities • Toronto – 2-Spirited People of the 1st Nations • Toronto – Sherbourne Health Centre • Toronto – Asian Community AIDS Services • Toronto – FrancoQueer offers HIV/AIDS services to French-speaking GLBT people, including Francophone immigrants. A City for Everyone — 12 Diversity Snapshot GLBT — Equity and Inclusion Lens

• Ontario Ministry of Education – Equity and Inclusive Education Strategy. Recognizing Ontario’s growing diversity as a strength, the Strategy addresses barriers related to sexism, racism, homophobia and other forms of discrimination in Ontario schools, which may prevent students from reaching their full potential. See also: Guidelines for Policy Development and Implementation. • International Day Against Homophobia – May 17 • National Coming Out Day – Oct 11 • Safe and Positive Space for LGBTQ Newcomers Initiative – Ontario Council of Agencies Serving Immigrants (OCASI) • See: Technical Report: Assessment of Feasibility of a Community Centre for Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender Residents of Ottawa

8. Sources • 2-Spirited People of the 1st Nations. – 2008. “Two Spirit Women 2nd Edition.” O’Brien-Teengs “Doe”, Doris. – 1998. “We Are Part of a Tradition – A Guide on Two-Spirited People for First Nations Communities.” Gilbert Deschamps. • Canadian Auto Workers Union. “To our allies: Everything you ever wanted to know about Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, and Trans issues…Well, maybe not everything….” • Capital Pride. 2008. “Capital Pride – The Capital’s Most Colourful Celebration.” • Coalition of Community Health and Resource Centres of Ottawa and Pink Triangle Services. 2006. “Enhancing GLBT Cultural Competence Project.” • Falk L.A. and WA Verick. 1989. “Contributions of the international gay community to AIDS research.” International Conference on AIDS, Committee for A Nobel Endeavor. Chicago, Illinois. • Justice Canada. 1995. “Disproportionate harm: Hate Crimes in Canada – An Analysis of Recent Statistics.” Roberts, Julian V. • Lesbian Bi Gay Trans Youthline. “Identity – Queer Youth of Colour.” • Minwaashin Lodge. 2009. “Two Spirit Services.” • Ontario Human Rights Commission. 1999. “Towards a Commission Policy on Gender Identity – Discussion Paper.” • Pink Triangle Services. 2001. “Ottawa-Carleton GLBT Wellness Project – A Survey of the GLBT Population of Ottawa.” • The Ottawa Police Service. – 2009. “Helping make Ottawa a hate-free city.” – 2005. GLBT Liaison Committee notes. • Trans Alliance Society. – 2003. “Trans Youth – information for transgender youth, their service providers, friends and allies.” • 2002. “Trans Inclusion Policy Manual.” • York University. “Stand together – Out of the Closet”.

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9. Definitions Bisexual / bi – An individual who is attracted to both males and females, though the degree of attraction to either sex may vary from person to person.

Gay – A man who is attracted to other men. The term is also used loosely to refer to someone who identifies as gay, lesbian or bisexual.

Lesbian – A woman who is attracted to other women. The term dyke has been proudly reclaimed by lesbians and used interchangeably as lesbian. (CAWU)

Heterosexism – The view that heterosexuality is normal and all other orientations as deviant. It includes the assumption that everyone is and should be heterosexual (attracted to someone of the opposite sex only), unless known to be otherwise; and that non- heterosexuals are unnatural or abnormal (Trans Alliance Society 2002).

Homophobia – The irrational hatred and/or fear of feeling love for members of one’s own sex, and therefore the hatred of those feelings in others. It is the personal forms of heterosexism, ranging from rejection and derogatory comments, to harassment, to physical violence (gay bashing), to silencing (‘as long as they don’t talk about it’), to denial of human rights to GLBT people (Trans Alliance Society 2002; CAWU).

Biphobia – The irrational hatred and/or fear of those people who love and have intimate relationships with people of both sexes. The discrimination that bisexual people face is different from those of lesbians and gays. Bisexuality is often seen as a phase or process of experimentation only, thus a person can be only gay or heterosexual but never both. Bisexual people are often pressured to “choose a sexuality”. Biphobia comes from heterosexist as well as gay and lesbian communities (2SP1N 1998).

Gender identity – An internally felt sense of gender, or intrinsic sense of manhood or womanhood. It refers to the self-image or belief a person has about their gender as being female, male, both or something altogether different. Gender identity answers the question, “Do I experience and understand myself as male, female or something else?” Gender identity does not always match the gender assigned at birth, and is different from sexual orientation (Trans Alliance Society 2002; OHRC 1999).

Queer – Historically been used as a pejorative term for those with a same-sex orientation, referring to an unnatural, abnormal, and sexually deviant status. This word has been proudly reclaimed and altered by lesbians, gay men and bisexual people to represent all those who diverge from conventional heterosexuality. Today many gay, lesbian and bisexual groups are using “queer” as a more encompassing, more inclusive, and less cumbersome term (than GLBT or LGBTTTIQ) that includes trans people. However, some people in the GLBT community, in particular older people, still feel they are discriminatory and hateful. People should be extremely careful about using the word “queer”, unless you yourself are part of the community (CAWU; Trans Alliance Society 2002).

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Questioning – A person who has not yet defined his or her sexual orientation and may be open to sexual experiences with individuals of same sex.

Sexual orientation – Who we are romantically attracted to and want to be sexually intimate with. While popular belief holds we are either solely attracted to men, or solely attracted to women, studies show that most people are not at one extreme end of this scale, but occupy some position in between (CAWU; OHRC 1999).

Transgender / Trans – A broadly used umbrella term that refers to all individuals who cross the socially constructed line of masculinity or femininity. Trans includes people who reject, or who are not comfortable with, in whole or in part, their birth-assigned gender identities. It includes diverse groups of people: pre-operative, post-operative, and non-operative transsexual people; male and female cross-dressers, “transvestites,” “drag queens” or “drag kings”; intersex individuals; and men and women regardless of sexual orientation, whose appearance or characteristics are seen as atypical.

Bigender refers to people who identify as both male and female and are comfortable being both. Often bigender people will spend some time presenting in one gender and sometimes in the other. Pangender is having mixed gender identity, not identifying as one static gender (CAWU; OPS 2005; OHRC 1999; Trans Alliance Society 2003).

Transition or gender reorientation – Moving from-birth assigned sex to the life of one’s felt gender (living according to gender identity, not biology). The process includes the adoption of the felt gender role, passing as the opposite sex among strangers, using an opposite-sex name, obtaining new personal identity documents that reflect the person’s felt gender and/ or new name, and working in the opposite-sex role. This may or may not include making physical changes through hormones or sex reassignment surgery (CAWU; Trans Alliance Society 2002; OHRC 1999).

Transphobia – The irrational fear and loathing of people who transgress conventional gender and sex rules in the binary system (man-woman; male-female; masculine-feminine). Its expression can be covert and subtle, or blatantly hateful and violent. Like other forms of discrimination, transphobia is often invisible to those who are not its targets (Trans Alliance Society 2002).

Two-spirit(ed) – A cultural term used to describe Aboriginal people who may also identify as gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgender, queer or questioning. The term ‘Two-Spirit’ acknowledges the gender inclusiveness of traditional Aboriginal cultures and some describe it as a balance of male and female spirit. Prior to colonization, most Aboriginal nations understood gender beyond male or female, and those who were “Two-Spirited” held special roles within their community, such as mediators, teachers and visionaries. Today, the Two-Spirit movement is working towards reclaiming cultural teachings and restoring a place of honour for all Two-Spirited people (Minwaashin Lodge 2009).

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10. Acknowledgements The Equity and Inclusion Lens is the product of a collaborative partnership between the community and the City of Ottawa. This partnership was coordinated by the Diversity and Employment Equity Unit of the City of Ottawa and the City for All Women Initiative (CAWI). City staff and community leaders contributed their knowledge and insights in the creation of this Diversity Snapshot: Contributors: Elena Abel – Minwaashin Lodge, Aboriginal Women’s Support Centre Joyce Drouin – Ottawa Police Services Lois Emburg – City of Ottawa Sulaimon Giwa Kevin Hatt – City of Ottawa Equity and Diversity Advisory Committee (EDAC) Yumi Kotani – City for All Women Initiative (CAWI) David Pepper – Ottawa Police Services Marion Pollack – Canadian Union of Postal Workers Maria Cristina Serje – City of Ottawa Nicole Soucy – City for All Women Initiative (CAWI)

All this was made possible thanks to a partnership grant between Status of Women Canada and the City of Ottawa which funded the City for All Women Initiative (CAWI) to engage in this important work.

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