Youth-serving organizations’ inclusivity of LGBTQ newcomers in Canada—A content analysis

Abstract

For LGBTQ newcomer youth lacking support at home and in school, youth-serving organizations provide various services and socialization that can effectively address their challenges. In a two stage content analysis, this study explored LGBTQ newcomer inclusivity in 39 youth-serving organizations in Toronto and Vancouver, as well as programs and services offered to this subpopulation specifically. Stage 1 findings demonstrate that few organizations displayed inclusion of, and supports for, LGBTQ newcomers. Stage 2 findings show that programs and services offered to this subpopulation can be categorized into four themes: cultural and linguistic sensitivity, skills development and education, socialization and community connections, and health and well-being. Recommendations for best practices are discussed.

Keywords:

• Inclusivity
• LGBT
• mental health
• newcomer
• youth
• youth organizations

Acknowledgements

I would like to express sincere gratitude to Dr Marina Morrow, my supervisor, for her enthusiasm and insightful guidance throughout the planning and development of this research. I also wish to thank Dr Farah Ahmad, my advisor, whose research in vulnerable communities served as an inspiration. Dr Ahmad’s expertise in research methods and methodology was instrumental in the formation and execution of this study. My appreciation also extends to Collette Murray, Graduate Program Assistant, who went above-and-beyond throughout the process to ensure everything progressed smoothly and on track.

Disclosure statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the author(s).