Not Always Rainbows: A Transformative Training in Sault Ste. Marie
At the end of May, Rainbow Health Ontario participated in Not Always Rainbows, a three-day training hosted by 2Spirit Anishnabe Storytelling & Advocacy and Wiiminodoodaadizo Consulting in Sault Ste. Marie. Hosts Hanna Sewell and Teddy Syrette created a space for shared learning, with three of our clinical educators facilitating five courses on trauma-informed care, trans-affirming practices, and creating inclusive spaces for 2SLGBTQ+ communities.
The training blended professional development with community connection. Cynthia McCutcheon, Aanjichigewin health educator promoter at Maamwesying North Shore Community Health Services, opened each day with smudging and closed the training with drumming and the Travelling Song.
The 25 attendees left with practical tools and a deeper understanding of the barriers 2SLGBTQ+ people face in accessing care. They explored how transphobia and colonialism intertwine to erase human diversity, and how intersecting identities and systemic barriers deepen marginalization.
As participant Alanna Rocchetta, Maamwesying mental wellness counsellor, noted: “I’m walking away with more than knowledge – a responsibility to listen, speak up and challenge harmful systems.”
While in Sault Ste. Marie, our team had the opportunity to visit Batchewana and Garden River First Nations, where they learned about the area’s history – including the legacy of residential schools – and received teachings about manoomin (wild rice), and the medicinal properties of spruce and birch sap. These experiences underscored how colonization has systematically disrupted Indigenous ways of knowing and being.
We extend our deepest gratitude to Hanna, Teddy, Cynthia and all who shared their knowledge, laughter and community with us.
Wishing You a Happy Pride
At Rainbow Health Ontario, we are committed to advancing equitable health care for 2SLGBTQ+ communities not just in June, but every day. Pride events are taking place across Ontario from June through September, offering opportunities for celebration and solidarity. In an increasingly hostile environment towards 2SLGBTQ+ rights in Canada, we hope that you choose to meaningfully support those in your community advocating for systemic and institutional change throughout the next year. Happy Pride from all of us at Rainbow Health Ontario.
Limited Time: Free Access to Fondements 2SLGBTQ+
This is the last year to access Fondements 2SLGBTQ+ (the French equivalent of our 2SLGBTQ+ Foundations course) free of charge. This seven-module, self-directed program provides essential knowledge for serving 2SLGBTQ+ communities and serves as a prerequisite for other Rainbow Health Ontario trainings. The course remains available at no cost until December 31, 2025. Learn more…
New Dental CE Accreditation
Rainbow Health Ontario courses are now category two certified by the Royal College of Dental Surgeons of Ontario (RCDSO), helping dentists meet their 90-point continuing education requirement while building 2SLGBTQ+ health competency. Learn more…