Friends of Ruby – a welcoming space for LGBTQI2S youth

Land Acknowledgement

Friends of Ruby acknowledges that the land we are meeting on has been the traditional territories of many sovereign Nations since time immemorial. We recognize that we are in the “Dish with One Spoon” treaty. This long-standing treaty is between the Anishinaabe and the Haudenosaunee Confederacy, and was created to encourage the shared protection of the traditional land and all animals. We acknowledge the history of the Toronto purchase which took place in 1805 and recognize that the land was bought fraudulently by the Crown with hidden intentions. The strong willed and determined Mississaugas came together to fight the unlawful sale of their traditional lands against the Canadian Government and in 2010, won.

We acknowledge that not all are aware of the history between Indigenous peoples and Canada, and we encourage the discovery of their traditional culture and knowledge through community engagement. Friends of Ruby is a safe space for all Two-spirit and LGBTQI community members. Subsequent Indigenous Nations and peoples, Europeans and all newcomers have been invited into this treaty in the spirit of peace, unity and mutual respect and all hold specific responsibilities as outlined under treaties and the Dish with One Spoon covenant. We acknowledge that land acknowledgements are just one small step in the path to reconciliation with Indigenous Nations.

Anti-Racism Statement

Friends of Ruby recognizes that Black LGBTQI2S youth face racism in all aspects of their lives.  As an organization we are committed to change this reality! We stand in support with the Black Community to remove systemic barriers and are prioritizing the well-being and mental health of our Black LGBTQI2S youth. We acknowledge that working against anti-Black racism is an active lifelong journey and will continue engage in this work.