So in the interests of full disclosure and (shameless self) promotion, I want to alert any readers who may know or work with folks in the Toronto area that it looks like we're going to be offering another series of Queer Positive Prenatal Classes through The 519 Community Centre.
The new coordinator of Queer Parenting Programs has been discussing a change to these classes, so I didn't know if we'd be doing another series, or at least whether we'd be doing another series in the existing format. But it looks like a weekend intensive in October will be happening - possibly the 14th & 15th which is the weekend after Thanksgiving. Date and location are not yet set, but if you want more information please contact Chris at The 519.
I've participated as a facilitator in four or five sessions now - since the beginning, I think - and it's been a very interesting experience. Calling them "Queer Positive" rather than "Lesbian" or even "Queer" has meant that we've successfully conveyed the message that these classes are not just for lesbian couples. So far, we've had a really wide variety of family configurations, and it's been a wonderful challenge for me personally to ensure my content and attitudes are as inclusive and as free of bias as possible.
I'm looking forward to doing it again.
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4 comments:
I like "Qweer Postive" because down the road you could have some Gay men attending who are supporting a woman giving birth for THEM. Makes it gender-neutral, positive and specific though for choosing classes that they know the classes are gay-friendly.
I've worked with lesbian couples and to some degree their needs were different, but mostly they needed someone who cared.
Hh
Absolutely - I actually had that kind of situation in the first class I ever taught. The first series was fascinating. I expected it to be full of married lesbian couples, but we had more men than women in the class. It was wild! I love these classes because they shake up my expectations every single time.
Now, must get back to producing some fresh content.
Where you been?!
Hh
Just checking in again to see if you'll be posting!
Hh
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