Stories
by our Outreach and Programs Coordination Team A land acknowledgement is a statement that recognizes that the place where we live, work, or gather is on the traditional territory of Indigenous Peoples. It is a way of showing respect for the people who have cared for the land for thousands of years and who still live on and protect it today. Long before settlers arrived, Indigenous Nations had their own systems of government, laws, and ways of life connected deeply to the land. When settlers came, they often claimed land without permission, forced Indigenous people from their homes, and made laws trying to erase Indigenous cultures and languages. Even today, Indigenous communities continue to fight for their rights and to protect their lands and traditions. A land acknowledgement helps remind us that colonization is not only history—it still affects Indigenous people in many ways today. Saying a land acknowledgement is a small act of respect and recognition, but it should also lead to action. Real support means learning more about Indigenous nations in your area, listening to Indigenous voices, and finding ways to support Indigenous communities. People often say land acknowledgements at the start of meetings, events, or public gatherings. For example, someone might say, “We acknowledge that we are on the traditional and unceded territory of the Algonquin Anishinaabe People.” The word “unceded” means that Indigenous people never gave up the land through treaties or agreements. If you want to create your own land acknowledgement, it’s important to learn which Indigenous nations live in your area. Avoid just copying a script. Speak sincerely and make it personal if you can. It’s also respectful to pronounce the names of Indigenous nations correctly, so take time to practice. Land acknowledgements are not a replacement for taking real steps toward reconciliation, like supporting Indigenous-led initiatives, learning about Indigenous history, or standing up against injustices Indigenous people face. They are one small piece of building respect, understanding, and justice. Learning about land acknowledgements helps us remember that the land has a long and rich history beyond the buildings, roads, and cities we see today. It’s a way to honour the people who came before us and who are still here, protecting and caring for these lands. Being an ally is about disrupting oppressive spaces by educating others on the realities and histories of marginalized people. National Indian Residential School Crisis Line: 1-866-925-4419 Mādahòkì Farm Indigenous Allyship: An Overview Native Land Digital: What Land Are You On? Tools for Researchers
by our Outreach and Programs Coordination Team Black History Month is a time to recognize, celebrate, and learn about the history, achievements, and experiences of Black people and communities. It exists because, for a long time, many important stories, contributions, and voices were ignored or left out of history. This month helps make space for those stories to be seen, heard, and respected. Black History Month is not only about learning facts from the past. It is also about understanding how history shapes the present. Black individuals have made important contributions to science, art, education, activism, literature, and everyday community life. Their impact is part of the world we live in today, even if it is not always fully acknowledged. Learning about Black history can help young people develop empathy, awareness, and respect for different lived experiences. It reminds us that people may face unfair treatment, discrimination, or barriers simply because of their race. Recognizing this helps us better understand why inclusion, equity, and kindness are so important. For example, a child might notice that certain historical figures are talked about more than others in school, while many Black leaders, inventors, and creators are mentioned less often. Learning during Black History Month helps fill in those gaps and gives a more complete and accurate understanding of history. It also encourages conversations about fairness, identity, and belonging. Black History Month can also be a time for reflection. It invites us to think about how our words, actions, and environments affect others. At Centre 33, we make a great effort to create inclusive spaces, and that means making sure everyone feels safe, respected, and valued for who they are. This includes listening to different perspectives, challenging stereotypes, and standing up against racism and exclusion. Not everyone experiences Black History Month in the same way. For some, it is a time of pride and celebration. For others, it may also bring up feelings connected to difficult histories and ongoing inequalities. Both experiences are valid and important to acknowledge. Understanding Black History Month reminds us that diversity strengthens communities. When we learn about different cultures, histories, and experiences, we become more compassionate and supportive of one another. Recognizing and celebrating Black history helps create a world where everyone’s identity, story, and contributions are respected and valued.
by our Outreach and Programs Coordination Team Trans Day of Remembrance takes place every year on November 20. It is a day to remember and honour the transgender people who have lost their lives to violence, hatred, and discrimination. It is also a time to support the trans community and call for a world where everyone can live safely, no matter their gender identity. Sadly, transgender people, especially trans women of colour, face high rates of violence and harm around the world. Many are targeted simply for being who they are. TDOR helps shine a light on this reality and reminds everyone that more needs to be done to protect and respect trans people. On this day, people gather for vigils, where names of trans people who have been killed in the past year are read aloud. These gatherings can include candles, moments of silence, music, or speeches. People also share stories, art, and messages online to honour those who have been lost and to show support for the living trans community. There are many ways to take part in Trans Day of Remembrance. You can attend a vigil, either in person or online. You can learn about the challenges trans people face and listen to trans voices and stories. Sharing information with friends and family can help raise awareness and build understanding. Supporting trans-led organizations and speaking out against transphobia in your community are also important ways to help. Trans Day of Remembrance is important because it reminds us that trans people deserve to live safely and with dignity. It calls on everyone to stand up against hate and to work for a world where all people can live as their true selves without fear. Join Centre33 and West Side Pride on November 20, 2025 as we honour those lost. In memory and solidarity on Trans Day of Remembrance.
Our political uncertainty may cause fear and anxiety, but we can exercise the power of our own choices and take control of those elements in our life that we do have influence over. Whatever the future holds, let’s remember that taking care of ourselves allows us to stay better informed. It also enables us to do what we can to help those in our community and not become overwhelmed as we face an uncertain future.
A sense of belonging can change everything. At Centre33, we provide a space where 2SLGBTQIA+ youth and their families feel safe, valued, and empowered. The impact of our work is best reflected in the voices of those who have experienced it firsthand. Here are some heartfelt testimonials that highlight the difference Centre33 has made in their lives. "I feel like shouting the recommendation from the tallest mountain. Centre33 is everything it claims to be and then some. This is a life-altering experience for kids. My kid participated in lots of activities in Alphabet Soup and benefitted from one-on-one interactions with staff and volunteers. Centre33 created an environment that helped my kid to feel heard, seen and worthwhile. It’s been a journey of learning for our family and now I can proudly say that I’m a mom with a brilliant and brave trans son who use They/Them pronouns". ~ Celine, Alphabet Soup Parent ~~~~~~ “I’ve been coming to the Drop-In since I was 14. I’m gender fluid. When I first got here I didn’t think that my life would look like anyone else’s. Home was really hard and I was always bullied at my school. Centre33 has taught me ways to care for myself and address boundaries at home. It turns out that there are many teens who are similar to me. I can breathe now knowing I’m not all alone”. ~ Oli, Drop-In Participant ~~~~~~ “I’m a student at the University of Ottawa and when I saw Centre33 listed as a placement possibility - I was all in! It’s been a great experience and is helping me to better support 2SLGBTQIA+ youth. My dream is to work in the nonprofit sector with equity-deserving people. This placement taught me so much about caring for others in my community. I’m definitely coming back to volunteer in the summer”. ~ Miley, Student Placement Volunteer ~~~~~~ “There are many reasons I would recommend Centre33 to other families but one main reason is because what they’re doing is something so unique and very valuable. They are bringing kids from different socio and economic backgrounds, gender identities, and orientations and showing them that we are all the same and no one is less than anyone else. And also that they can lead by example and make a real difference not only in their communities but also in the world." ~ Will, Drop-In Carer ~~~~~~ “Hi, I’m 10 and go to Alphabet Soup. I like to see trans kids like me. At school, I’m the only one but when I’m here I’m in a family. It’s safe and happy for me”. ~ Alphabet Soup Participant Every experience shared here highlights the transformative power of support and acceptance. We are honored to be part of each individual’s journey and remain committed to fostering a supportive community where everyone feels seen, heard, and valued.
