This June has certainly been one to celebrate.
Not only did the month shed its rainclouds to finally bring us that anticipated sunshine, we’re also celebrating the vast diversity in our region this Pride Month and National Indigenous History Month.
I was pleased to see that thousands gathered for National Indigenous Peoples Day at Royal Roads University this month, and Victoria’s annual Pride Parade, coming up on July 7, is routinely one of the largest events in the city.
I’m always in awe of how our community leans in to support and advocate for Indigenous and LGBTQIA+ members, and many others, through various programs and events — especially in times of unrest and worsening polarization.
One community I’ll emphasize this month are those who intersect these two identities. Our region has a number of initiatives that support Two-spirit members — and creative ones at that!
The Victoria Foundation recently met with the long-time organization VIDEA, in Fernwood, to learn more about a marvelous traditional regalia library for Two-spirit members from the local Songhees and Esquimalt Nations, but also for the Métis, Inuit, and First Nations from far and wide who also live here.
The library allows anyone Indigenous to borrow expensive casual and ceremonial regalia, such as headdresses, robes, vests and jewelry, for free. Many items are vibrant Two-spirit variations on traditional garments, created by Indigenous artists from across the continent.
Since the library launched last summer, it’s offered many people the chance to finally wear regalia that matches the gorgeous complexities of who they are. For some, this has been a life-changing experience. You can read about it in a beautiful photo essay we’ve published on our Pulse blog.
I’ll also mention the crucial research, education, and advocacy work from the Rainbow Health Co-operative, led by ChrŸs Tei. The volunteer-based organization, located at the Victoria Native Friendship Centre, helps boost trans, Two-spirit, and non-binary wellness, and has influenced positive change for these communities at the provincial level.
As your community foundation, we engage with all types of people under this pleasant June sun.
The Indigenous Granting Advisory Pilot, supported by the foundation, has helped put granting power into the hands of local Nations, with $506,000 given to 17 local Nations and Indigenous organizations.
The Fund for Gender Equality has also supported local initiatives working to boost quality of life for Two-spirit and gender diverse people. This fund is a collaboration between Community Foundations of Canada and the Equality Fund, supported by the Government of Canada.
And I’d be remiss not to mention our board chair, Tamara Napoleon, an Indigenous-rights lawyer from the Saulteaux Nation, who always helps to bring valuable perspectives to the foundation’s decision making.
Of course, with your help, we can continue to build a region that preserves and enhances belonging for all identities who call Greater Victoria home. I encourage you to connect with a cause that is making positive change to the life of someone who identifies as diverse. To help them foster hope could truly change your life as well.
Finally, our 2024 edition of Pulse is now out on newsstands and online. The magazine builds on the Vital Signs report’s findings through an annual roundup of community impact stories, Foundation news, and financial highlights.
This year, you can read about the growing trend of impact investing, how a generous couple is leaving a community legacy for women’s equality in their Will, how nature-based climate action funding is helping heal our environment, and more. We hope you’ll be inspired.
Find Pulse online at victoriafoundation.bc.ca/pulse.
