The 519 is committed to the health, happiness, and full participation of LGBTQ2S communities in Toronto and beyond. We would love for you to join us in this work.

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Banner with a radiant sun art. Text: Black History 24.7.365

"Let us ask very prudent questions:
What is being celebrated as Black history, what is being recognized?
Is it our rich culture and history, or our continued struggle to survive?"

We hope this monthly update finds you and yours in good health.

February is here, a month that is traditionally observed as Black History Month. But this time, let us take the opportunity to ask important questions. The 519's newly-formed Black Collective has released its first public statement inviting us into reflection.

The Collective was formed in July of 2020 by the Black staff members of The 519 following the murder of George Floyd in the USA. They felt the need to take up space to confront and advocate against anti-Black racism, and promote equality and equity for all Black people, specifically Black 2 Spirited, queer, and trans communities.

Click to read the full statement

Remembering Sasha Hashi

With great sadness, we remember our dear staff member Sasha Hashi, who passed away suddenly over the weekend. Sasha was a beautiful soul and much beloved at The 519 and in the community.

We are all devastated by this loss, and we will miss Sasha very dearly.

Unity Mosque will host a virtual Salat al-Janazah, the Islamic funeral prayer, for Sasha on Friday, February 12, 1 pm ET. The 519 is also working on hosting a virtual celebration of Sasha's life. We will announce more details shortly on our social media

Read: In Loving Memory of Sasha

Upcoming Virtual Training by The 519

Laptop screen with words 'Gender Identity' on it.

Fostering Queer and Trans-Inclusive Environments at Work and Home

Tuesday, February 23 • 5 to 7pm

Gain a deeper understanding of LGBTQ2S communities and what it means to create authentic spaces at work and at home. 2-hour, single-session online course delivered via Zoom.

Cost: 84.75 CAD per person (all-inclusive)

Virtual Program and Event Highlights

Graphic of laptop with four people in a virtual meeting.

Active Minds for Older LGBTQ2S Adults

Fridays • 2 to 3:30pm

Join us for a weekly virtual social afternoon of fun, social gaming, and prizes.

Registration required. Register here
Questions? Contact Moji: MShirazi@The519.org

Part of the Older LGBTQ2S Program. Monday programming continues as per schedule, 2 to 4pm. For Monday sessions, register here.

Graphic of a group of folks reading on their devices and books.

QueeReading Together

Sundays, February 14 - March 7 • 1 to 2:30pm

Four-session intergenerational virtual series. We will discuss chosen writings by LGBTQ2S authors and respond to them through our own art.

Registration required. Register here
Questions? Contact Jo: JJefferson@The519.org

Love = Family: Virtual LGBTQ2S Family Celebration

Saturday, February 13 • 10:30am to 12pm

Join us with the little ones in your life to ring in the spirit of love, laughter, and family together.

Registration required. Register here
Questions? Contact: Glitterbug@The519.org

Baby Massage Virtual Workshops (0-12 months)

Fridays, February 12, 19, 26 • 10:30 to 11:30am

For parents and caregivers. Facilitated by students from the Centennial College Massage Therapy Program under the direction of a Registered Massage Therapist.

Registration required. Register here
Questions? Contact: Glitterbug@The519.org

Part of The 519 EarlyON Virtual Programming. See other ongoing and upcoming EarlyON programs.

Our TYMP coordinator chatting with a youth.

Trans Youth Virtual One-on-One Mentoring

Wednesdays • 4 - 6pm

An affirming space for 2 Spirit, trans, and non-binary youth (16-29) to meet with our Coordinator, Trans Youth Mentorship Program, and chat and get individual support.

To request an appointment, contact Dani: DAraya@The519.org

Upcoming: The 519 Tax Clinic

Income tax and benefits form and a pencil.

Virtual Support for LGBTQ2S Communities and Downtown East

For folks/families with earnings under CAD 40,000 who need help filing their income tax and benefit returns. Registration required.

Registrations open February 22.
Contact: TaxClinic@The519.org or call 416-392-6878 (ext. 4021).
More Details