Shiraz Ali

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It Will Take a Village: Building and Protecting 2SLGBTQ+ Spaces

The neighborhood affectionately known as 'The Village' in Toronto stood as a testament to the endurance of queer identities and livelihoods. However, even before the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, underlying forces had already begun to diminish this cherished and diverse community. Exploring the importance of queer spaces and their survival within the City of Toronto, as well as the broader region and beyond, was a significant undertaking. This insightful exploration was presented by the ULI Americas Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Committee and featured esteemed guest speakers, including JC Elijah (Eli) Bawuah representing the City of Toronto and Chloe Brown from the Pandora Policy Development Lab. Their expertise shed light on the challenges faced by queer spaces and the urgent need for their preservation, providing a poignant reflection on the changing landscape of this vibrant community.