FAQ
“2SLGBTQ+” stands for Two-spirit, lesbian, gay, bi, trans, queer and “+” as a signifier for all other identities. We make the distinction in describing the work that we do as “queer work” as it intersects with many social justice movements, while we describe our core audience as “2SLGBTQ+”.
Yes! While we are a service that focuses on the 2SLGBTQ+ community, we recognize the nuances of identity and do not question or turn anyone away. You are free to disclose as much or as little information with our team when seeking resources. We always welcome allies who are interested in learning and unlearning with us. All events are advertised as being either “closed” or “open”. Certain events may be closed to certain community members, such as support groups for folks of a specific identity. This is to provide a safe(r) space for community members seeking to connect with those of similar identities. We will never ask for “proof” of anyone’s identity in joining our events.
You’ve already started by seeking us out! Our community is very vast and knowing where to begin can be overwhelming, especially if you haven’t been involved in the past. Whatever you are looking for, we’ll help you find it.
If you are seeking to meet others like yourself, visit us during our regular hours of operation at UCU-215C! Many of our community members utilize our lounge space to socialize, so it’s a great place to start to get to know folks! If you’re interested in online spaces or wish to remain anonymous, you can also join our 24/7 discord server!
If you’re interested in more hands-on community work, we offer volunteering every semester through the Community Engagement Navigator in your uOZone. Check throughout the semester for volunteering opportunities or reach out to one of our team members for more information.
Our space and services is open to all 2SLGBTQ+ students and their allies. If you are an ally seeking to learn more about our community, please visit our resources tab above. Our team is available to answer any questions you may have regarding our community, so please don’t hesitate to ask! We believe that the process of learning and unlearning includes an open dialogue, so don’t be afraid to ask us any questions you may have.
All UOSU services are available in both official languages (English/French), The Pride Centre included. We offer all our services, events and resources in both official languages either in our spoken languages, translators, subtitles, etc. Our centre strives for multi-lingualism and as such, certain services, events and resources may be available in other languages as well.
As many of our resources rely on outside community initiatives, certain ones may only be available in one language. We strive to have a balance of our resources in both official languages to the best of our capacity. If you are seeking a certain resource in a specific language, please don’t hesitate to reach out to us for assistance.
Our physical space in UCU 215-C is wheelchair accessible, as well as scent-free. We provide a variety of snacks/drinks at the centre that are free of major allergens (peanuts, coconut, tree nuts, etc.), as well as dietary variant (gluten-free, gelatin-free, etc.). We have a small fridge at the centre that students may use to store refrigerated medications per student request as well*.
In our online spaces, alt-text in both official languages (English/French) is available on all our promotional images. Our online events offer closed captioning in six languages (languages may vary depending on event), as well as transcription post-event.
We may offer certain accessibility needs, such as ASL interpretation for both online and physical events per student request. These may be requested through the registration form for the event or by contacting us directly. If there are any questions or concerns regarding The Pride Centre and accessibility, please contact us at pride-coord@seuo-uosu.com.
*Note: If you are student seeking spaces to store medication, check our hours of operation and contact our team.
Per The Ontario Human Rights Code, the University of Ottawa has legal obligation to prohibit discrimination on protected grounds (including, but not limited to age, race, gender identity/expression, sexual orientation, sex, etc.) of all members of the uOttawa community, both on and off campus. Policy 67a – Prevention of Harassment and Discrimination at the University of Ottawa outlines steps to define and report instances of harassment/discrimination. Students who have experienced harassment/discrimination may contact the Office for the Prevention of Discrimination and Harassment of the Student Academic Success Service (SASS) at 100 Marie-Curie (4th floor). Students may also reach out to the following campus resources:
- The Human Rights’ office at the University of Ottawa
- Office of the Ombudsperson
- Community Legal Clinic
The Student Rights’ Centre of the UOSU also serves all students seeking guidance and support in uOttawa regulations and practices, as well as those seeking information on human rights on campus.
See also:
Our team understands the desire for anonymity when reporting certain issues within the University.
If you have an incident you would like to address within the University of Ottawa or with an individual, but wish to remain anonymous, let us know. Our team can assist in navigating/documenting any case of harassment/discrimination and represent any student who wishes to remain anonymous.