Information and Resources on Gay, Lesbian, and Bisexual Issues
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In a positive space, human rights are respected, and lesbians, gay men
and bisexuals, their friends and allies are welcomed, supported and
celebrated.
The rainbow has been adopted around the world as a symbol of pride. It
was introduced in San Francisco in the 1970's by two men during a Gay
Pride Parade. The symbol was chosen to represent the Gay and Lesbian
community because it was not connected to oppression. Previously used
symbols such as the pink and black triangles were used during World War
II to mark gay men and lesbians as people to removed from the Aryan
race. Rainbow symbols are recognized pretty much throughout the
developing world and represent individuals from all backgrounds, races
and national origins. The symbol also represents the many faiths,
experiences and situations of gay men and lesbians.
The colours
represent, reflect and celebrate the diversity of the Gay and Lesbian
community.
| Red |
|
Light |
| Orange |
|
Healing |
| Yellow |
|
Sunshine |
| Green |
|
Serenity |
| Blue |
|
Art |
| Purple |
|
Spirit |
Supportive Services
The experiences of violence and oppression in the lives of lesbians, gay
men and bisexual people are common. These experiences include physical
and emotional attacks from people they know and strangers, as well as
the more hidden attacks such as workplace benefits and stereotyping.
The availability of supportive services for gay, lesbian and bisexual
youth and adults is a goal toward which Leeds, Grenville & Lanark
District Health Unit is working on together with the community.
A Personal Journey
How do I know if I'm gay? This is a common question asked by people of
all ages at our clinics, in the school program and at workplaces
throughout the tricounty. This site provides a non-judgmental and
supportive environment in which one can explore this question.
The experience of coming out will be influenced by many things.
Understanding your risks, how to maintain your safety and where to get
support is information that is easily accessible from here.
We are working to eliminate the stereotyping of lesbians, gays and
bisexuals and to address issues of harassment and discrimination. The
ability to deal with feelings about (- your sexual orientation) being
gay, lesbian or bisexual and the influences of media, society and family
on those feelings is key in learning to be able to believe in yourself.
To exclude this work puts many people (adults and youth) at risk for
suicide, substance abuse and violence.
Your life as a parent
Parenting can be a roller coaster ride. Creating a home that is loving
and accepting of your child, including his or her sexual orientation is
important if we wish to have healthy children. Children learn what they
live, so if we say things that hurt homosexual and bisexual people, it
may also hurt your children if they happen to be gay. Resources that
support and encourage positive understandings of the development of a
person's sexual identity are available for all parents.
Most of the materials you may have read for parents have been written
under the assumption that all people have a heterosexual orientation.
This same assumption is made for us all, adults and children. If you are
a parent who is gay or lesbian or if you have a child who is, it is
essential to have resources available that reflect your life and
experiences. A lack of these resources can lead to feelings of
inadequacy. This site offers you some resources that are
non-judgemental, inclusive and supportive.
Resources for Lesbians, Gay and Bisexual People
Lesbian, Gay, Bi Youth Line (Peer Support)
4:00 p.m.- 9:30 p.m. Mon - Fri.
1-800-268-9688 or 416-962-9688
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