About the Program

Older Adult Programming 

We provide exciting and accessible programming for 2S-LGBTQ+ Older Adults (55+).

We are committed to reducing the social isolation experienced by older adults and improve community building, inclusion, and the creation of spaces where people on the 2S-LGBTQ+ spectrum feel welcome, heard, and honoured.

We are here to support and empower those who identify as older adults (55+) within the 2S-LGBTQ+ community, to promote healthy relationships, and to increase access to health and social services.

Safer Spaces 

Safer Spaces is a 2S-LGBTQ+ Equity, Diversity and Inclusion program, offering a range of training, assessment, consultation and custom services. Our services are research-based, evidence-informed, center 2S-LGBTQ+ lived experiences, and focus on best practices. We appreciate working together to strengthen the knowledge, practices, resources and tools needed to grow into a more inclusive organization, service, and workplace. For more information, visit saferspaces.ca

The staff involved with starting New Horizons intentionally chose imagery that would speak to the Indigenous and 2S-LGBTQ+ communities, as well as to people not within those groups – striking a balance of inclusivity. For those who are not comfortable coming out, this logo does not shout ‘queer’ – thus protecting privacies for those who want it.

We have incorporated all the colours of the Pride flag, including the BIPOC colours (Black, Indigenous People of Colour – impacted by systemic racial injustices), which are all shown within the 13 moons.

People are using the term BIPOC to acknowledge that not all people of color face equal levels of injustice. They say BIPOC is significant in recognizing that Black and Indigenous people are severely impacted by systemic racial injustices

In the 7 Grandfather teachings, the Beaver symbolizes wisdom and uses his natural gift wisely for survival. He alters his environment in a sustainable way for the benefit of his family, much like Indigenous people have lived their lives. For non-Indigenous people, the Beaver is a symbol of the North, like the areas we service in New Horizons.

The circle represents community. Historically, Two-Spirit people were kicked out of Indigenous circles. This circle represents an invitation to our Two-Spirit community to join our circle and welcome them back in.

Sweetgrass is one of the most important ceremonial plants and invokes kindness. The braid represents balance and strength. Each strand represents the mind, body and soul. Intertwining and braiding strands strengthen them, symbolizing the goal of being stronger together rather than alone.

These circles represent the 13 moons on the Indigenous lunar calendar. The different moons and teachings are closely linked to nature, the cycle of life and important yearly events.

We would like to acknowledge the Seniors Program Coordinators and the Two-Spirit Outreach Workers who collectively created the logo – along with the talented graphic design skills of Leisha Neuman (Two-Spirit Coordinator – OAHAS).