The journey of LGBTQ newcomers to Newfoundland and Labrador, Canada, is often fraught with numerous challenges. In the face of homophobia, transphobia, racism, and xenophobia, many individuals find themselves in dire need of support and a safe space to navigate their new lives. Recognizing this pressing need, a groundbreaking five-year research project has been initiated by the YWCA St. John’s and Memorial University. This collaborative effort aims to identify and address the service gaps faced by LGBTQ newcomers, providing them with the resources and community connections necessary for a successful settlement. The project’s tangible outcomes, such as a monthly peer support group and an individual mentorship program, have already made a profound impact on the lives of LGBTQ newcomers, fostering a sense of belonging and empowerment.
Creating a Safe Haven
One of the key initiatives that has emerged from the research project is a monthly peer support group facilitated by Kimberly Offspring, the program coordinator. This confidential and non-judgmental space allows LGBTQ newcomers to come together, share their experiences, and support one another. Offspring emphasizes the significance of this safe haven, stating, “[The peer support group] is a space where people can get together and discuss shared experiences and support each other.” The group has attracted participants from diverse backgrounds, including Afghan refugees and Ukrainians, who find solace in exploring topics such as coming out, identity navigation, and settlement issues.
Understanding the Challenges
According to Professor Sulaimon Giwa, a social work professor at Memorial University and a key collaborator on the research project, the experiences of LGBTQ newcomers are still largely uncharted territory. Giwa highlights the prevalence of homophobia in mainstream Canadian society and the need to comprehend the challenges faced by LGBTQ newcomers to implement effective interventions and support systems. Among the challenges reported thus far are difficulties accessing healthcare, barriers arising from institutional racism, and a lack of community connection. By delving deeper into these issues, the research project seeks to establish a baseline understanding that will pave the way for improved assistance and advocacy.
Empowering Through Mentorship
Melissandra Groza, a transgender woman who herself underwent the journey of relocation from Bangladesh to Newfoundland and Labrador, is now volunteering as a mentor for LGBTQ newcomers. In her role, Groza provides a wide range of support, from offering emotional guidance to practical assistance such as navigating public transportation and grocery shopping. Having experienced the loneliness and disconnection that can accompany starting afresh in an unfamiliar place, Groza is determined to provide the support she wished she had received. She shares, “I am there for them — I find my own healing helping others.”
The Path Forward
The ongoing joint research project between the YWCA St. John’s and Memorial University serves as a beacon of hope for LGBTQ newcomers in Newfoundland and Labrador. By shedding light on the service gaps and challenges faced by these individuals, the project aims to develop effective interventions and support systems that empower LGBTQ newcomers and enable them to thrive in their new home. Through initiatives like the peer support group and the mentorship program, LGBTQ newcomers have discovered a sense of community, found their chosen family, and gained the confidence to support others who embark on similar journeys.
In a world that often fails to recognize the unique needs and experiences of LGBTQ newcomers, the YWCA St. John’s, Memorial University, and the dedicated individuals involved in this research project are laying the foundation for a more inclusive and supportive society. By amplifying the voices and experiences of LGBTQ newcomers, we can collectively work towards a future where every individual, regardless of their background, feels safe, valued, and embraced in their new home.
