Episode #5 Intersectionality. What is it? Why is it essential, and how can we identify the different lenses through which we experience it?

This podcast episode covers discrimination, oppression, racism, eraser, 2SLGBTQIA+, privilege, mental health and disabilities.  

When I lived in Grande Prairie from 2014-18, I was lucky to work as the Youth Services Supervisor for the Municipality. As part of my role, I was responsible for facilitating the city youth council, a group of 24 young people with direct access to the city council as advocates for youth voices. From mental health to recreation and the rights and freedoms of 2SLGBTQ+ youth in Alberta, the youth were part of the decision-making processes that directly impacted their diverse population. 

I'm sharing this because this episode was a special one for me. After five years, I had the opportunity to sit down with three former youth council members who are not only part of this podcast initiative but are now adults. 

Matthew Hilkewich is 21 years old and a proud trans mentor and youth advocate. I met Matt when they were 15 years old as they were getting ready to board a plane to Toronto, where we were attending the same Gender & Sexuality Alliance conference. In those first few minutes, I saw Matt's leadership qualities and knew he was meant to change lives, and he has.

I met Raylee Morrissette when they were 13 years old through her dad, Len, an award-winning Indigenous filmmaker. I scooped Raylee up to be a part of the Youth Council and knew her leadership style would make an impact through her sense of humour and genuine compassion. Now 20 years old, Raylee continues to inspire me, and I can't thank her enough for sharing her experience with the podcast. 

Natal Rivas Bolaños was part of my first youth council cohort in 2014. Now, 29-years-old and the founder of Bipan Support Services & Bipan Magazine, Free Queer Media is a place to experience representation and embrace the queer community. 

They are an incredible facilitator and led today's podcast discussion on Intersectionality. What is it? Why is it essential, and how can we identify the different lenses through which we experience it?

https://www.bipanmag.ca/magazine

www.peyakoskanpodcast.com 

 

Disclaimer: The views expressed by guests are their own and do not reflect the official stance of GPFC's Peyakoskan Podcast. We aim to provide a platform for diverse perspectives.