Society of Queer Momentum announces first Executive Director and new President
OTTAWA – The Society of Queer Momentum is excited to announce that Fae Johnstone will become the organization’s first Executive Director, while Dr. Lisa Lachance becomes Momentum’s new President.
New Executive Director and new President
“The struggle for justice for 2SLGBTQIA+ people is at a critical moment. We are seeing the signs of rising hatred directed at queer and trans people. Now is the time for people to speak up against hate, and I’m pleased to be taking an even more active role in that struggle,” said Johnstone, who previously served as Momentum’s first President.
Momentum’s goal is to accelerate social and gender justice for 2SLGBTQIA+ people. The society runs several campaigns including the #Act4QueerSafety Campaign. Momentum seeks to hold politicians, corporations, and institutions accountable for their actions and comments toward queer and trans people.
“For a while, it seemed like there was real momentum toward equality for queer and trans folks. But somewhere along the line, things have stalled and the rights our community has secured are now being threatened by far-right organizations. I’m pleased to be taking a larger role in the Society of Queer Momentum in order to help shift the arc of history back toward justice for all,” said Dr. Lachance, Momentum’s incoming President. Lachance has a long history in Canada's queer community, including during the campaigns for equal marriage, and is currently the Member of the Legislative Assembly for Halifax Citadel-Sable Island.
Momentum is currently encouraging people to sign a federal petition calling for the implementation of the White Paper on the Status of Trans and Gender Diverse People. People can add their names at https://www.ourcommons.ca/petitions/en/Petition/Details?Petition=e-4666
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Momentum is seeking proposals from qualified communications and design firms or independent practitioners to lead a comprehensive rebrand. This includes the development of a new visual identity, refined messaging framework, and a suite of practical tools and assets to support both day-to-day communications and high-impact advocacy work.
This work is being undertaken alongside the launch of a new strategic plan. As Momentum enters its third year, the organization is experiencing rapid growth and increased national visibility. This rebrand is intended to define its next phase of development and position Momentum clearly as Canada’s leading 2SLGBTQIA+ advocacy organization.
The selected partner will be expected to deliver a cohesive and adaptable brand system that reflects the organization’s role in shaping public discourse and mobilizing communities. Proponents have an option to include the development of a new Wordpress-based website. See Appendix A for further details.
In January, we launched a micro-grant program to help power-up grassroots advocacy and community building in Alberta, as part of our response to Premier Danielle Smith’s attack on the freedom, rights and healthcare access of transgender youth and their families. We received dozens of applications, reflecting the commitment, strength and creativity of 2SLGBTQIA+ advocates and allies across Alberta.
We are now thrilled to introduce you to the 12 projects we’re funding across the province.
Each group has it's own vision and unique flavour. Some are fully focused on activism and political advocacy, while others are focused on building inclusive spaces and fostering community care. The range of initiatives reflects something our communities have long known: it takes a village to build and sustain a movement. It takes protesting in the streets, and community spaces that foster queer joy and healing.
We're proud to play our part in sustaining vital advocacy and community building in Alberta.