Language is a primary way that we connect with one another, and yet it can be the site of disconnection and harm when wielded without compassionate intension. Inclusive language can be a signal of safer supports for LGBTQ+ people who are experiencing sexual violence, intimate partner violence, dating violence, or stalking. We will consider what more inclusive language might look like in policy or practice, and explore an often gendered part of speech that makes a big difference in how welcoming and accessible our work is for many LGBTQ+ community members.
February: Supporting LGBTQ+ Survivors
Thurs. 2/2 10am-11am or Mon. 2/6 2pm-3pm
It takes a village to keep our communities safe. Unfortunately, LGBTQ+ people,
and especially transgender people, are at greater risk for some kinds of harm than
the larger population. We will explore some of what our communities are facing
and how to hold our work in trauma informed ways that support LGBTQ+ survivors
of sexual violence, intimate partner violence, dating violence, or stalking. We will
also identify resources and community based strategies to support safety for all
people in our communities.
March: Inclusive Practices and Barriers to Access
Thurs. 3/2 10am-11am or Mon. 3/6 2pm-3pm
Where do our commitments to inclusion and belonging show up in our physical spaces, policies, practices, and culture? What encourages and discourages people from seeking help or accessing services or support? Using examples from our work, we will begin to identify which areas your organization wants to invest energy into shifting to better support LGBTQ+ survivors of sexual violence, intimate partner violence, dating violence, or stalking. The following session, Making An Accountability Action Plan, is designed to be an excellent follow up to this session, but they can also be attended independently.
April: Making an Accountability Action Plan
Thurs. 4/6 10am-11am or Mon. 4/10 2pm-3pm
How are you accountable to the communities you serve, support, or organize? What are some ways to move forward the necessary work of ongoing reflection, feedback, education, and accountability to LGBTQ+ survivors of sexual violence, intimate partner violence, dating violence, or stalking? No single hour long training will "solve" inclusion, but a well designed action plan can support an organization in doing the longterm work needed for culture change. We'll explore areas of possible action, make a work plan together, and discuss what further supports you might need on your organizational journey toward safety, support, inclusion, and belonging for rural queer and trans people experiencing violence.
