During Pride Month and year round, Trent University proudly showcases its commitment to fostering a vibrant and supportive community. With a robust array of resources and collaborative initiatives, the University aims to empower all students, celebrate diversity, and create an inclusive environment where all individuals can thrive. 

"At Trent, we believe that everyone deserves a space where they can be their authentic selves,” said Lawrence Lam, acting AVP of Students at Trent. “We are dedicated to cultivating an environment where 2SLGBTQQIA+ students feel celebrated, supported, and empowered. Through our wide range of resources and collaborative efforts, we strive to create a sense of pride in community." 

Resources, programs & initiatives

• Trans Peer Outreach (@transpeeroutreach) program offers individual and group support to students at the Peterborough campus, led by professionals with lived experience who understand the unique challenges faced by this community. Additionally, Trent collaborates with the Trans Peer Support Group, a confidential and free support group facilitated by the Trans Peer Outreach program of the Canadian Mental Health Association. This inclusive space caters specifically to Trent students who identify as transgender, non-binary, gender diverse, or are questioning their gender, providing a safe platform for sharing experiences and finding support. 
• Counselling Services is another avenue of support through counselling that is tailored specifically to the needs of the 2SLGBTQQIA+ community. Jeffrey Reffo, a highly skilled therapist with expertise in serving queer individuals, offers brief counseling sessions to Trent students via convenient video conferencing. This innovative approach allows students to access support from the comfort and privacy of their own spaces. The online booking system further streamlines the process, ensuring that students can easily schedule appointments that suit their needs and schedules. 
• Out on Campus (@trentoutoncampus) creates a safe and confidential space on both campuses for students questioning their sexuality or gender, or those in the process of coming out. Led by students who have already come out to their friends and family, this discussion group offers advice, support, and the opportunity to build meaningful relationships with peers who share similar experiences. 
• You Belong Here (@youbelongheretrentu) is a community initiative designed to provide support and connections for queer students facing unique challenges. The program offers resources, connections, and programming to address the diverse needs of students who identify as 2SLGBTQQIA+, Indigenous, Black, racialized, mature, first-generation, or with disabilities. By fostering a sense of belonging, the program aims to enhance academic success and well-being for these students in their university experience. 

To further aid the community, Trent University maintains a comprehensive list of online queer resources, including a preferred name change form, resources in the community, healthcare options, as well as career resources. 

TCSA Gender Affirming Care Grant

The Gender-Affirming Care Grant provides funding for non-medical gender-affirming items or services to Trans and gender non-conforming individuals. It was created in response to a survey of students by the TCSA highlighting the need for accessible and affordable resources. While medical procedures are not covered, applicants can apply for healthcare funding separately. 

Clubs & groups

Another way to further connect with your community at Trent is through the vibrant array of clubs and groups supported through the Trent Central Student Association (TCSA) or Trent Durham Student Association (TDSA) that connect and uplift the 2SLGBTQQIA+ community. These community spaces offer a supportive and empowering environment where individuals can connect with like-minded peers, share experiences, and create lasting friendships. 

• Trent Queer Collective (@trentqueercollective) - The Trent Queer Collective (TQC) at Trent University is a student group that provides a safe space, resources, and social opportunities for marginalized gender, sexuality, and romantic identity (MGSRI) students. They foster an inclusive queer community through connections, support networks, information resources, and events such as Pizza Pride Day, Queer Prom, and Sober Socials. The TQC celebrates diversity, equality, and positivity while creating safe social spaces that promote acceptance and fun. 
• Trent Centre for Women and Trans People (@centreforwtp) - The Centre for Women & Trans People (CWTP) is an inclusive space dedicated to community-based care, resource redistribution, and advocacy for those affected by gender-based oppression. They prioritize the needs of marginalized individuals using an intersectional approach and a social justice model that recognizes the interconnectedness of gender with various forms of oppression. The CWTP creates social spaces, provides resources, and promotes restorative justice practices. 
• Trent Durham Pride Club (@pridetrentdurham) — Trent Durham Pride is an inclusive LGBTQ* pride club that actively promotes LGBTQ* issues and perspectives on the Durham campus. The club is dedicated to creating a welcoming and supportive community for individuals of all backgrounds. By organizing educational events, social gatherings, and awareness campaigns, Trent Durham Pride aims to foster understanding, acceptance, and visibility for the LGBTQ* community. With a focus on equality and celebrating diversity, the club provides a safe space for members to come together, share experiences, and advocate for positive change. 

Pride in local community

The local communities of Peterborough and Durham Region offer vibrant and inclusive spaces for 2SLGBTQQIA+ individuals and allies to connect and celebrate. While many choose to make the journey to Toronto to celebrate Pride, there are many ways to participate in local Pride activities in Durham throughout the month of June, and in Peterborough during the month of September. 

• Pride Outside Peterborough (@pride_outside_ptbo) invites everyone to join their outdoor adventure group, organizing activities such as walking, hiking, biking, and more, fostering a sense of camaraderie among participants of all abilities and skill levels.  
• Ptbo-Nogo Pride (@ptbopride) is a passionate organization committed to providing support and celebration for the 2SLGBTQQIA+ community in Peterborough/Nogojiwanong. They prioritize solidarity and emphasize the significance of coming together in joyful recognition of diversity. 
• Pride Durham (@pridedurham) is a key player in the social scene for the 2SLGBTQQIA+ community. They use social programming to create meaningful connections, spark dialogue, and bring real-life experiences to the table. Their goal is to provide a safe space for important conversations, acting as a supportive family for those who need it and giving individuals the freedom to express themselves without discrimination.