Capilano University partners with QMUNITY

Capilano University partners with QMUNITY to increase 2SLGBTQIA+ inclusivity

By Daniel Itai

It’s good news for the 2SGBTQIA+ community at Capilano University (CapU) which is now in partnership with QMUNITY, a BC based 2SLGBTQIA+ organization, which will now lead to more 2SLGBTQIA+ inclusivity.

Although the partnership is only a pilot program, it 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.

The program is an important part of CapU’s commitment to grow our culture of equity, diversity and inclusion in our operations and outreach,” said Daniel Levangie, associate vice president, Student Success at CapU.

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.

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.

In addition, Tracy London, co-executive director of QMUNITY, commended the program for being such a first.

“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.

Our training program uses a restorative justice approach to queer inclusivity training, delivered through an online platform and experiential queer learning circles,” said London.

Moreso, the training aims to increase awareness and foster confidence in supporting queer individuals, recognizing and celebrating Two-Spirit people, and facilitating active bystander and transformative conflict awareness.