2SLGBTQ+ Programs
We know that sport spaces and communities have a long history of being unwelcoming to and unsafe for 2SLGBTQ members of our community, and especially trans folks (see 'Unsafe Spaces' in Egale's Every Class in Every School report (external link) ).
Importantly, we also know that sport, physical activity and affirming environments - independent of gender identity - have significant well-being, educational, and social benefits (external link) .
We offer several '2SLGBTQ+ and allies' programs to provide a safe and affirming environment for anyone at TMU who is committed to creating a positive space for our 2SLGBTQ+ community.
Trans + Gender Diverse Swim
This is an inclusive, drop-in swim time for trans and gender diverse members of our community. Anyone committed to creating a positive space for trans folks is welcome to join in a combined Lane / Open Swim format.
- Privacy curtains are drawn over doors and windows.
- "2SLGBTQ+ & Allies" program signage is on display to ensure all participants understand the spirit of the program
Toronto Purple Fins Gender-Free Swim Club
This external swim club is a gender-free space for coached fitness swimming. The club serves two-spirit, trans, and gender non-conforming folks 16+. Queer cis women are also welcome.
The club supports swimmers with a range of ability and experience, including recreational, fitness, and competitive level swimmers.
Those interested in learning to swim can register in their new development program, Rainbow Fins.
The Toronto Purple Fins practice weekly at TMU Pool throughout the school year.
For more info, email info@torontopurplefins.com or visit their website.
2SLGBTQ+ & Allies Pickleball & Volleyball
This is an inclusive, drop-in sport time for 2SLGBTQ+ communitiy members and allies. Anyone committed to creating a positive space for trans folks is welcome to join.
- Privacy curtains are drawn over gym doors
- "2SLGBTQ+ & Allies" program signage is on display to ensure all participants understand the spirit of the program
- TMU Staff/Faculty are welcome to participate in this drop-in program without a membership - ask staff and show your OneCard when entering
Rainbow Series Classes
Rainbow Dance Party and Rainbow Ride are taught by two excellent instructors who are also very proud members of the 2SLBTQIA+ community! These classes are for 2SLGBTQ+ communitiy members and allies. Anyone committed to creating a positive space for trans folks is welcome to join.
- Privacy curtains are drawn over studio doors
- "2SLGBTQ+ & Allies" program signage is on display to ensure all participants understand the spirit of the program
- TMU Staff/Faculty are welcome to participate in this group fitness program without a membership - ask staff and show your OneCard when entering
Inclusion in sport and physical activity matters
While always a work-in-progress, our programs and services are designed to ensure we're not "just another gym", but rather a thoughtful place where we actively work to build inclusion.
We know that sport spaces and communities have a long history of being unwelcoming to and unsafe for many equity-deserving groups, and we know we have work still to do to address physical, social and attitudinal barriers.
If you don't see what you are looking and hoping for above, or if you have any questions or concerns about any of our programs or facilities, please connect directly with any of our program leaders or contact our Director, Recreation, Equity & Active Wellbeing, Andrew Pettit, at andrew.pettit@torontomu.ca or 416-979-5000 x557132.
Aren't all programs supposed to be inclusive?
That's the aim - absolutely! But we know that providing dedicated programs specifically designed to address the very real barriers faced by many community members can make a huge difference. Providing a greater sense of safety, support and a chance for meaningful community connections, our equity-focused programs are important on their own, and also enable further participation in all of our programs.
Special thanks to the Toronto Metro Students' Union (external link) for their advocacy in making our spaces and programs more inclusive.