Trans Awareness Month in Athletics & Recreation: November 2021
Building an Inclusive Community
We know that sport spaces and communities have a long history of being unwelcoming to and unsafe for 2SLGBTQ members of our community, and especially trans folks (see 'Unsafe Spaces' in Egale's Every Class in Every School report (external link) ). In an effort to build a more welcoming community, our staff are trained in 2SLGBTQ inclusive principles, and all gender change spaces and programs are available.
While we are committed to making all programs and spaces safe and inclusive year-round, we know making time and space in combination with active community outreach can help break down barriers.
In partnership with Positive Space at Ryerson, we invite you to participate in the programs highlighted below, one part of the broader Trans Awareness Month events happening this November.
Programs & Resources Offered
- Looking for an ally?
- Free Trial Membership
- Trans + Gender Diverse Swims
- Trans & Allies Group Fitness Classes
- Inclusive & Accessible Change Spaces
Looking for an ally?
If you have questions or concerns about joining our community, navigating new spaces and programs or otherwise, and would like to connect with an ally prior, please contact our Director of Recreation, Equity & Active Wellbeing, Andrew Pettit, at andrew.pettit@ryerson.ca or 416-970-5000 x7132.
Free Trial Membership
A chance to try a new sport, recreation and wellness community before you commit to a membership is an opportunity welcomed by many. Given past experiences of violence and harassment in spaces like ours, we know this can be especially true for 2SLGBTQ and specifically trans folks.
In honour of Trans Awareness Month, we're excited to invite you - and everyone, of all gender identities and expressions - to take advantage of a free trial membership throughout November 2021.
- Due to COVID, pre-registration is required for any in-person programs this year, and access is limited to Ryerson students, staff and faculty. Please contact us at recreation@ryerson.ca to start your free trial membership.
- Staff will be happy to provide an overview on and guide you to spaces and programs
- You will be asked to sign a participation waiver before entering
Ryerson Undergraduate & Graduate Students: Your membership is included in your tuition fees - you can reserve your workout slot now!!
Trans + Gender Diverse Swims
The RAC pool reopened this past September and our Trans + Gender Diverse swim is a part of the regularly weekly schedule. Anyone committed to creating a positive space for trans folks is welcome!
- Weekly Swims: Wednesday @ 1:30-2:30 PM - check the pool schedule for details
Special thanks to Positive Space Ryerson, the RSU Trans Collective (external link) and the Non-Binary Colour Collective (external link) for their advocacy and partnership bringing this important swim program to life back in 2019.
Trans & Allies Group Fitness Classes
Back on the schedule again this year are ourTrans & Allies Group Fitness classes. Though our in-person classes are back, we know our Zoom-based virtual classes are a uniquely welcoming and safe option for many in our community.
Join us on Zoom every Tuesday for the month of November - no registration required, camera on or off - for a wonderful series of "Cardio Dance Buffet" classes with one of our most-talented and welcoming instructors, Alan Faigal.
- Dates: Tuesday, November 2, 9, 16, 23, 30
- Time: 30 minute class from 12:00pm - 12:30pm
- Join us on Zoom now! (external link)
Of course, all of our instructors are trained, thoughtful, kind professionals who work hard to ensure each and every class is safe and welcoming. See the entire range of classes and view class descriptions on our Group Fitness Schedule.
Inclusive & Accessible Change Spaces
In keeping with Ryerson's broader efforts to create safe and accessible washroom spaces for trans and gender diverse members of our community, we respect everyone's right to choose the change space and washroom that is appropriate for them. In addition to our traditional women's and men's spaces, the following options are available to all members of our community.
Special thanks to the RSU's Trans Collective (external link) for their advocacy in making our spaces and programs more inclusive.
Beyond Trans Awareness Month
November is an important month to recognize, support and celebrate trans communities, but we're here for and committed to making you - and everyone - feel welcome and safe all year long.
If you have questions or concerns about any of our programs or facilities, or extending any of the special offers above beyond one visit or the month of November, please contact our Director, Recreation, Equity & Active Wellbeing, Andrew Pettit, at andrew.pettit@ryerson.ca or 416-979-5000 x557132.