Workshops focus on sexual, gender minority inclusion

GRANDE PRAIRIE – Local and area residents are invited to attend a free community workshop about inclusive health and cultural safety for sexual and gender minority people.

Marni Panas, interim lead of Diversity and Inclusion with Alberta Health Services (AHS) and a Canadian Certified Inclusion Professional, will share her experiences and expertise at a workshop to be held in Peace River and Grande Prairie.

Each workshop will cover two topics:

• I’m Not Sick, I’m Transgender: Creating Safer and More Inclusive Spaces for Sexual and Gender Minority (LGBTQ2S+) – Participants will explore how to better work with, support and advocate for people who identify as a sexual or gender minority.
• Unconscious Bias – Participants will explore the various forms of bias, how these biases can impact decisions and interactions, and the strategies that can be used to reduce bias in our lives.

In Peace River, the workshop will be held Oct. 29 from 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. at the Catholic Conference Centre, 10307 99 St. Registration is required; call Peace River mental health at 780-624-6151.

In Grande Prairie, the workshop will be held Oct. 30 from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. at Grande Prairie Regional College, Room D208, 10726 106 Ave. Registration is not required. Space is limited.

Workshops are being hosted by AHS Addiction and Mental Health in Peace River and Grande Prairie.

As a transgender woman, Panas is open about her personal journey in the hopes of helping others and fostering acceptance through education and respectful dialogue.

Alberta Health Services is the provincial health authority responsible for planning and delivering health supports and services for more than four million adults and children living in Alberta. Its mission is to provide a patient-focused, quality health system that is accessible and sustainable for all Albertans.