Building Utopia: 2STQLGB+ Gathering

During the weekend of December 2 to 5, the 2 Spirit, Trans, Queer, Lesbian, Gay, Bi (2STQLGB+) Righting Relations Change Lab met for a gathering in Treaty One territory at Mawi Wi Chi Itata Centre in Manitoba. Besides the beautiful and cozy cabin we gathered at, it was a weekend full of joy, beautiful people and energy. For many, this was the first queer-centred gathering they attended since the pandemic; some their first ever. The need for frequent, safe, and intentional queer spaces was apparent and emphasized throughout the weekend.

We engaged in ceremony, circle, and brainstormed queer centred operating principles for Righting Relations in the West Hub. We told stories visually, verbally, and engaged in popular theater. We spent hours crafting, creating collages, and zine pages. We shared a few tears, sang loudly, danced flamboyantly, and laughed joyously. Most importantly, it was a space that allowed for queer kinship, creativity, and unapologetic joy to blossom.