Creating Queer Community

In this episode, Bex (she/her) is joined by Aislin (she/her) and Stella (she/they) to discuss what queer community means, how to find and build inclusive spaces, and the challenges of representation in the arts and athletics. They share personal stories, insights, and shoutouts to local queer organizations making a difference.

Timestamps  00:00 - Introduction

Welcome to the podcast & guest introductions

04:30 - Defining Queer Community

Aislin & Stella share their personal definitions of community and discuss the importance of safety, belonging, and shared experience.

12:15 - Toronto’s Queer Community & Inclusivity

Acknowledging privilege and the ongoing fight for inclusivity within the community.

21:00 - Queer Identity & Representation

The role of queer signifiers in self-expression
 • The importance of visibility and how it impacts self-acceptance
 • Challenges of stereotypes and expectations in queer spaces.

29:40 - The Importance of Organizing

Stella’s journey in queer performance and burlesque
 • Aislin’s experience joining and organizing Queer Run Club
 • How stepping into leadership roles can help build and uplift community


39:50 - Challenges in Queer Spaces

Inclusivity struggles: Are we truly inviting everyone in?
 • Acknowledging gaps in trans and POC representation
 • The responsibility to create intentional, welcoming spaces


48:30 - The Role of Art & Performance in Queer Culture

Financial barriers for queer artists
 • The decline of accessible media platforms for promotion
 • The importance of sustainable funding & corporate responsibility


56:10 - Lifting up the Queer Community in Real-time

Checking in on each other’s well-being
• Showing up for queer events and artists
 • The political climate and its impact on LGBTQ+ rights


1:04:15 - Community Shoutouts

• Masque of the Red Death (April 2024) - Upcoming queer performance produced by Saint Stella
• Queer Run Club - Weekly Saturday runs & coffee meetups

• Femme Fatale Toronto - Burlesque troupe showcasing Black and Women of Colour performers

• Sugar Holiday - Toronto-based burlesque performer and producer 
• Queer Jock Night
• Queer Mingle Events 
- Black and Indigenous-run meetups for the lesbian, non-binary, trans and queer community

Where to find us

• Rebecca @sexedbeforebed
• Aislin @queerrunclub & @architectaislin
• Stella @saintstella & https://saintstella.com