Open Closet is a social support group for LGBT2Q+ (lesbian, gay, bi, trans, 2-spirit, queer) youth between 14 and 18 years of age. The group started in early 2002 and has served more than 1,100 youth since its inception. OC is open to youth from each of the six counties RHAC serves - Perth, Huron, Lambton, Elgin, Middlesex and Oxford.
The group includes discussions related to coming out, queer identities, LGBT2Q+ histories, survival strategies, safer sex and healthy relationships. We also bring in guest speakers, do arts-based activities, and provide information about HIV/AIDS and other sexually transmitted infections (STIs), harm reduction, and community services/resources according to participants’ individual needs.
GOALS OF OPEN CLOSET
- To provide a welcoming and supportive space for LGBT2Q+ youth to connect, engage, share and support
- To foster LGBT2Q+ youth empowerment through strengths-based activities, skills/capacity-building opportunities, leadership development, education and community engagement
- To honour the resilience, creativity and potential of LGBT2Q+ youth as leaders, change-makers, and members of the broader community
Open Closet usually runs every Friday night from 7-9 p.m.
For more information visit Open Closet or contact us at opencloset@hivaidsconnection.ca!