A new community centre dedicated to Vancouver’s 2SLGBTQIA+ population is taking shape, fueled by a fundraising campaign launched by Qmunity, a local non-profit organization. The campaign coincided with National Coming Out Day on October 11, 2023, marking a significant moment for both the organization and the community it serves.
The under-construction facility aims to provide a safe haven for individuals within the 2SLGBTQIA+ community. Sid Koshul, the campaign chair, expressed the long-held dream of establishing this centre. “It’s honestly a visual statement. As you see, we’re here at the corner of Davie and Burrard streets. It’s a prominent intersection… it’s a reminder that queer and trans people do belong here,” Koshul stated.
According to Qmunity, approximately 15,000 people accessed its services last year, underscoring the urgent need for improved infrastructure. Koshul pointed out that the current location at Davie and Bute streets was intended as a temporary solution—forty years ago. “It’s honestly deteriorating. And, more importantly, it’s inaccessible,” he added, referring to the facility’s challenging entry, which involves climbing a flight of stairs.
The necessity for a dedicated space has become increasingly pressing, as noted by Anoop Gill, Qmunity’s executive director. “I think ‘under attack’ is a nice way of saying it,” Gill remarked, highlighting the growing hostility faced by the community in various public spheres, including schools and workplaces.
This sentiment was echoed in the political arena earlier this week when a private member’s bill was proposed by the two-person One BC party. The bill sought to ban puberty blockers and allow legal action against doctors providing gender transition treatments for up to 25 years after the fact. The initiative drew criticism from NDP Deputy Premier Niki Sharma, who described it as a “sad day in B.C.” when it was brought before the Legislature. “We’re picking on vulnerable children,” Sharma stated, condemning the move as an intrusion into parental rights and support for their children.
While the bill was ultimately defeated before reaching first reading, advocates like Gill argue that such proposals reflect a troubling rise in discrimination that adversely affects the community, particularly youth. “Queer and trans youth are disproportionately at higher rates when it comes to suicidal ideation; higher rates of youth homelessness; higher rates of food insecurity,” Gill explained.
Qmunity remains optimistic about the new centre, which is expected to open in 2027. The facility aims not only to provide essential services but also to foster a sense of belonging and community among those who may feel marginalized. As the fundraising campaign gathers momentum, Koshul and Gill hope it will serve as a beacon of hope and resilience for Vancouver’s 2SLGBTQIA+ population.
