Dec 19, 2024
The Enchanté Network
Reflecting on 2024 and Looking Ahead to 2025!
Welcome to our December edition!
As we wrap up an impactful 2024, we’re excited to reflect on all that we’ve accomplished together and give you a preview of what’s in store for 2025. This issue celebrates our collective progress, shares stories from our members, and highlights upcoming opportunities to keep us moving forward. Thank you for being an essential part of TEN’s journey as we work toward an even more inclusive and equitable future for 2SLGBTQI+ communities across Canada!
December Highlights and Year-End Recap
Key Highlights from 2024
As we close the year, we’re proud to reflect on some incredible milestones that demonstrate the power of collective action.
Historic Firsts: In February, we convened the National Black 2SLGBTQI+ Futures Summit in Ottawa, the largest gathering of Black 2SLGBTQI+ leaders, activists, and nonprofits in Canada. This summit addressed long-overdue gaps in Black-specific and 2SLGBTQI+-focused services, elevating voices and building strategies for a more equitable future. Additionally, our collaboration with the federal Employment Equity Act Review Task Force led to a groundbreaking commitment: Black and 2SLGBTQI+ communities are now recognized as designated protected groups under the Employment Equity Act. This marks a monumental shift for workforce inclusion in Canada.
Strengthening Capacity and Leadership: Through 68 events and programs, TEN supported over 700 member organizations this year. Highlights included:
The Leadership Bootcamp: A two-day virtual training that equipped 27 leaders with skills in workplace culture, financial management, and program design.
The Mentorship Program: Connecting experienced leaders with 23 member organizations to provide tailored guidance and foster growth.
Financial Management Workshops: Offering crucial tools to help organizations diversify revenue and navigate the Social Finance Fund effectively.
Advocacy in Action:
In 2024, TEN remained steadfast in its commitment to advocacy, standing resolutely against hate in all its forms—from opposing anti-trans legislation to condemning global injustices. Central to these efforts was the Rainbow Resilience Fund, which provided direct support to 22 organizations across Canada. This initiative empowered communities to confront anti-2SLGBTQI+ hate crimes head-on while fostering safer, more inclusive spaces that promote resilience and equity.
Through this fund, recipient organizations launched transformative projects focused on education, prevention, and healing, improving the collective strength and impact of 2SLGBTQI+ communities nationwide. These efforts reflect TEN’s dedication to tangible action and a vision for a future where every individual can thrive in safety and dignity.
Congratulations To Our Recipients:
TransCare+ received $24,630
Black Pride YYC received $25,000
Rights for all LGBTIQ+ Refugees In Canada Now Society received $25,000
The Pride Centre of Edmonton received $25,000
Fernie Pride received $25,000
LOVE (Leave Out Violence) BC received $25,000
Vancouver Pride Society received $25,000
Alter Acadie NB received $25,000
Northern Mosaic Network & Qmunity Camp NWT received $25,000
African Centre For Refugees in Ontario Canada received $25,000
Maggie's Toronto Sex Workers Action Project received $25,000
M4BJ/ Wildseed Centre for Art & Activism received $24,981
Project Agape received $25,000
UPlift Black received $24,875
Gender Affirming Care Prince Edward Island Inc. received $24,750
PEERS Alliance received 24,300
AIDS Community Care Montreal (ACCM) / Sida Benevoles Montreal received $16,500
Juritrans received $24,967.44
Nous ne serons pas sages received $25,000
Queer Yukon Society received $20,500
Coalition Building and Knowledge Sharing:
Through the collaborative project Building Bridges: Anti-Racism, Indigenization, and Faith in the 2SLGBTQI+ Community, spearheaded by The Enchanté Network in partnership with Egale Canada and Rainbow Faith & Freedom, comprehensive learning modules were developed. These resources address structural racism, foster cultural understanding, and promote safer, inclusive spaces for marginalized groups, particularly within faith and culturally diverse contexts. These efforts continue to empower organizations to take tangible steps toward equity and inclusion.
This year also marked the release of the Mapping Canada’s 2SLGBTQI+ Movement report, developed in collaboration with the University of Saskatchewan’s Social Innovation Lab. This pivotal report offers an in-depth analysis of the capacity, operations, and needs of 2SLGBTQI+ organizations nationwide. In addition, two coalition-building toolkits were introduced to help organizations forge stronger partnerships and navigate intersectional advocacy. By fostering collaboration with key partners and building resources, these initiatives are creating a more connected and resilient 2SLGBTQI+ movement across Canada.
Looking Ahead to 2025
1. Expanding the Network Call Program with New Themes
The Network Call Program is set to continue into 2025, featuring new themes on emerging issues in health, safety, and advocacy. Join us in these critical discussions to help shape the future of 2SLGBTQI+ advocacy.
2. Upcoming Events and Skill-Building Workshops
Starting in early 2025, we’ll roll out workshops and events centered on leadership development, coalition-building, and policy advocacy. From newcomers to long-time members, these sessions offer something for everyone as we work to deepen our collective impact.
3. Growing the Back to Our Roots Project
We’re thrilled to announce the expansion of the Back to Our Roots Project for 2025. This next phase will build on 2024’s momentum, empowering Black 2SLGBTQI+ organizations and leaders to drive inclusive change across Canada.
Member Resources and Tools
Anti-Oppression & Anti-Racism Framework
Ready to take your commitment to equity to the next level? Our new toolkit is crafted specifically for 2SLGBTQI+ organizations in rural and remote communities. This resource guides you through meaningful self-reflection on privilege and offers practical steps to actively engage in antiracist, decolonial, and anti-oppression work. Whether you’re new to these concepts or looking to deepen your impact, this framework will empower your organization to foster a truly inclusive and equitable environment.
2SLGBTQI+ Rural Funding Literacy Toolkit
Want to expand your funding and secure a sustainable future for your organization? Dive into “Steps to Diversifying Your Organization’s Funding,” our latest toolkit designed to help rural and remote 2SLGBTQI+ organizations boost their financial health. This toolkit covers a range of funding options, strategic planning steps, and innovative approaches to increase sustainable revenue. Equip your organization with the insights needed to strengthen financial stability and make a greater impact in your community.
Thank You and Happy Holidays
As we close out 2024, we want to extend our heartfelt thanks to every member, partner, and ally in the TEN community. Your dedication and support make all our work possible. Wishing you a joyful holiday season and a powerful start to 2025!
Join the Movement with The Enchanté Network
🌈 Who We Are: The Enchanté Network supports over 200 2SLGBTQI+ organizations across Canada, building connections, increasing impact, and driving systemic change.
Our work is focused on:
Supporting our members, especially in their work to grow their organizational capacity, so they can make greater impacts in their communities through effectively delivering services and supports;
Reducing silos by networking our members and fostering collaboration;
And engaging with funders and governments to advocate on behalf of our members and share what they need to serve their communities.
📚 Explore Our Resources: Access toolkits, guides, and best practices tailored to strengthen 2SLGBTQI+ organizations. 🗓️ Attend Our Workshops: Gain skills and knowledge through our capacity-building sessions.
💸 Funding Opportunities: Discover grants and micro-funding programs to support your initiatives.
📩 Stay Connected: Subscribe to our newsletter for updates on events, resources, and funding opportunities.
Why Become a Member?
Networking Opportunities: Connect with organizations nationwide to share insights and collaborate on initiatives.
Capacity Building: Access tailored programs, workshops, and resources to strengthen your organization's impact.
Advocacy Support: Benefit from our national voice advocating for policies and resources that empower 2SLGBTQI+ communities.
Exclusive Programs: Participate in mentorship opportunities and apply for micro-grants to support your initiatives.
Ready to Bolster Your Impact?
Join us in fostering a thriving, inclusive network. Learn more about membership and apply today at www.enchantenetwork.ca.
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