Ottawa, ON

ajadams@goodworkagency.ca

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Rural 2SLGBTQIA+ Research & Advocacy

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AJ’s rural 2SLGBTQIA+ research and advocacy centres the experiences of queer and trans people living outside major cities. His report, Out in the Country: The Importance of Pride in Small Towns and Rural Communities, explores the role of rural Pride in fostering visibility, safety, and belonging, and has informed public advocacy, presentations, and media commentary on rural 2SLGBTQIA+ realities.

Rural Pride Research

‘Out’ in the Country Research Report

Out in the Country: The Importance of Pride in Rural Communities and Small Towns examines the experiences of rural 2SLGBTQIA+ people and the impact of Pride events, visibility, and programming outside urban centres. Conducted between 2021 and 2024, the study surveyed 3,160 participants from 95 rural communities across Ontario.

The report finds that 87% of rural 2SLGBTQIA+ people have experienced anti-2SLGBTQIA+ hate, yet the introduction of Pride is linked to meaningful positive change: 33% reported decreased hostility, 87% felt greater community support, and 60% felt safer and more welcomed. An overwhelming 96% emphasized the importance of Pride in rural communities, and 72% said it would have made coming out easier.

While religious and social conservatism remain key barriers, the findings underscore Pride’s vital role in fostering inclusion, safety, and belonging in rural communities and small towns.

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Rural 2SLGBTQIA+ Presentations

‘Out’ in the Country: The Importance of Pride in Rural Communities and Small Towns

Presented To:

  • The Enchanté Network
  • Fierté Canada Pride
  • Ontario Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs
  • Public Webinar – Kincardine, ON Area
  • Public Webinar – Stratford, ON Area
  • Closed Webinar -25+ Rural Prides
  • United Church of Canada – Canadian Shield Regional Council

The Economic Benefits of Supporting 2SLGBTQIA+ People in Rural Communities

Presented To:

  • Ontario Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs
  • City of Stratford
  • Stratford-Perth Chamber of Commerce
  • Stratford BIA

Rainbow-Washing: How to Be an Ally to Queer Communities 365 Days A Year

Presented To:

  • Public Webinar – Kincardine, ON Area
  • Public Webinar – Stratford, ON Area
  • Stratford-Perth Chamber of Commerce
  • Stratford BIA

Creating Small Town Pride Through Rainbow Visuals (Crosswalks, Banners, and more)

Presented To:

  • Fierté Canada Pride
  • Partners in Pride Ontario
  • Public Webinar for Ontario Rural Prides

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