Creatively Expressing our 2SLGBTQI+ Identities Through Intergenerational Daring Dialogue

exChange is an Intergenerational 2SLGBTQI+ daring dialogue arts project. Our aim is to bridge the gap between 2SLGBTQI+  youth and the elders who paved the way. This intergenerational exchange through art hopes to create spaces where 2SLGBTQI+  youth can learn the stories of how their freedoms have come to be, and where older folks from the 2SLGBTQI+ can learn  new terminology and gain a deeper understanding of the current evolution of the community. The goal of this initiative is twofold: to establish intergenerational reciprocal relationships through art making, and to document the storytelling of the English-speaking 2SLGBTQI+ communities in Montreal / Tiohtià:ke, which are often stories unheard. The hope is to share the work with the broader community , and have on-going connections between generations, especially when these links are not always present in biological family structures of  2SLGBTQI+ individuals. 

Who’s behind this project?

This project is sponsored by a generous anonymous donor who is inspired by the lifetime of ministry and social justice work of Rev. John Arlen Bonnar of St James United Church who is part of the 2SLGBTQI+ community himself. This special projects fund is dedicated to supporting people who are refugees, Indigenous people, and 2SLGBTQI+ communities and organizations. The project is managed by Melissa-Ann Pereira Ledo, local queer community arts organizer, consultant and facilitator, in partnership with local 2SLGBTQI+ organizations. This is a non-religious community-led arts project.

Teaching Artists:

We are in the process of hiring Teaching Artists to help facilitate future events. The team of facilitators will be led by the Program Manager, and the work will be guided by our community partners, and our advisory committee.

[Application for Teaching Artists to help facilitate the event on June 21st is now open]

We will prioritize artists from the 2SLGBTQI+ community. We particularly encourage participation of BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, Person of Colour), trans identified, disabled and newcomer individuals. 

“What is the commitment?”

Each artist will be compensated a total of 650$ for facilitating one of our events and for prep (approx. 16 hours total). Meetings and events take place in the Montreal downtown area in-person. 

“How do I apply?”

Simply fill out this application form below! You will be contacted if your application has been short-listed.

We deeply thank you in advance for the time you have taken to read about our initiative, and for your interest in joining our team!

Feel free to reach out with any questions that you may have.

Queerly and gratefully,                                                                                                                                                    

Melissa-Ann Pereira Ledo (she/elle/they)                                                                                                          

exChange Project Manager