WE LIP Success Story | July 2024
On July 25th 2024, as part of our Settlement Partners Information Communication Exchange Committee Professional Learning Circle (SPICE PLC), the Windsor Essex Local Immigration Partnership (WE LIP) collaborated with the Queer & Trans Migrant Advocacy Alliance of Windsor- Essex and Trans Wellness Ontario to host a virtual lunch and learn session. This lunch and learn focused on “Welcoming Communities for Queer & Trans Migrants”. This professional development event provided an invaluable opportunity for organizations to enhance their support for 2SLGBTQIA+ newcomers, foster meaningful dialogue, share vital resources, and build stronger community connections.
Here are the Highlights of the Event:
- Kelsey Santarossa from the WE LIP team extended a warm welcome to all attendees and performed a land acknowledgement, emphasizing the importance of recognizing and honouring Indigenous heritage. She then introduced the speakers for the session: Anold Mulaisho, Derrick Carl Biso, and Delvin Maxwell.
The training agenda included the following segments:
- Anold Mulaisho, Managing Director of the Queer & Trans Advocacy Alliance of Windsor-Essex (QTMAAWE), provided an insightful overview of the unique needs of queer and trans migrants in Windsor-Essex. He also shared valuable information on referral pathways to queer and trans supportive organizations, guiding participants on how to better support these communities.
- Derrick Carl Biso, Administrative and Education Team Lead at Trans Wellness Ontario, delivered an engaging session on further education for staff related to Sexual Orientation, Gender Identity, Gender Expression and Sex. Derrick shared inclusive practice considerations and encouraged all participants to take part in Windsor-Essex’s 2024 Pride Festival in August 2024, fostering a sense of community and celebration.
- Delvin Maxwell from South Essex Community Council shared information and resources from Diversity Dignity Leamington, focusing on the specific needs and support systems available for 2SLGBTQIA+ newcomers. Delvin highlighted his success in supporting 31 successful refugee claims for permanent residence and asylum in Canada. This achievement was particularly valuable as other organizations supporting 2SLGBTQIA+ newcomers have faced challenges to successfully process claims with client identity and sexual orientation.
The session also included a dynamic Q&A segment, allowing participants to engage with the speakers, ask questions, and share resources. This interactive component fostered dialogue and facilitated the exchange of valuable information and perspectives. Additionally, a few participants remained on the call after the SPICE session to discuss further potential referral points and community supports for particular clients in crisis.
The WE LIP team encouraged participants to join the 2024 Pride Festival Parade, reinforcing the importance of visible support and celebration of diversity. Participants were also asked to complete evaluation surveys to provide feedback on the webinar, ensuring continuous improvements for future events.
This event showcased the collective efforts and dedication of the WE LIP members and partners in driving forward the mission of creating an inclusive and supportive environment for all community members. By addressing the needs of queer and trans migrants and fostering inclusive practices, the Windsor-Essex community continues to set a national example in embracing diversity and promoting equity.
Click Here for a recording of the event.
Click Here for the presentation, 2SLGBTQIA+ resources, and professional development opportunities.
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