4 books from Humber Library focused on 2SLGBTQ+

Resources available on campus for you to learn more about the 2SLGBTQ+ community.

The month of June is dedicated to the celebration of the 2SLGBTQ+ community. This means Pride Month has finally arrived – just on the calendar, though, because Pride is a daily commitment!

Beyond all the cool events taking place in the city or on campus, Pride Month’s a crucial time for reflection. Celebrating Pride is much more than only acknowledging the unique challenges faced by the 2SLGTBQ+ community and advocating for equality and diversity. It involves working alongside others to combat discrimination and foster equality.

A gentle reminder: love is love, regardless of its colour, shape or form!

Here at Humber College and the University of Guelph-Humber, IGNITE is committed to cultivating a learning environment free of discrimination. Diversity and inclusion are not only a goal for us, but fundamental pillars of the student union.

If you’re looking to deepen your understanding of 2SLGBTQ+ narratives and terminology – or simply curious to learn more – there are resources available at your fingertips.

The Humber Library has an education guide focused on 2SLGBTQ+ topics. With an extension collection of books available, we’ve curated a list to facilitate your exploration and learning about this community.

The Little Book of Pride: The History, the People, the Parades by Lewis Laney

Gif of a woman getting comfortable in bed to read a book. — *Via GIPHY*

Lewis Laney is extremely involved in the 2SLGBTQ+ community in London, actively collaborating with local establishments to provide safe spaces for queer gatherings. His queer-writing journey began in his teenage years, leading him to author The Little Book of Pride, released in 2020.

If you want to delve into a specific topic, understanding its historical background is key. Laney’s succinct 144-page book offers a comprehensive overview of Pride. It covers its history, key figures, best Pride events around the world, inspiring quotes from prominent queer individuals, Pride facts and even a guide to Pride festivals.

You should consider this book your starting point to enhance your understanding of 2SLGBTQ+ rights history.

You can follow Laney on Instagram @mrlewislaney for more insights into his journey and ongoing work.

ISBN: 9781912983162

Exploring Gender and LGBTQ Issues in K-12 and Teacher Education: A Rainbow Assemblage by Adrian D. Martin and Kathryn J. Storm

Gif of a woman drinking coffee and reading a book at a chair while it's snowing outside. — *Via GIPHY*

If it’s in your plans to pursue a career in education or teaching, make sure to add this book to your reading list.

Despite improvements in 2SLGBTQ+ rights on a legal level, non-cis and queer individuals still face violence, housing and employment discrimination and the denial of service in public businesses.

This book offers examples of empirical research and theorizations that explore how schools can evolve into more than just safe academic spaces for 2SLGBTQ+ students. The authors highlight classrooms and educative settings as platforms for promoting affirmative inclusion.

For all the educators and teachers out there, this volume is indispensable! It offers valuable insights and practical ideas for fostering a school system that doesn’t default heterosexuality as the norm. It’s packed with strategies for teaching in ways that embrace diversity.

ISBN: 9781641136174

Coming Out Stories: Personal Experiences of Coming Out from Across the LGBTQ+ Spectrum by Emma Goswell, Sam Walker and Tim Sigsworth MBE

Gif of a woman reading a book at a snow chair while it's snowing. — *Via GIPHY*

If you’re navigating the complexities of sexuality and gender, immersing yourself in the experiences of others who have come out can be incredibly helpful. This book offers not just one, but 27 captivating stories for you to explore.

Based on the popular Coming Out Stories podcast, this empowering and often humorous book shares pivotal moments from the lives of many 2SLGBTQ+ individuals. Each narrative is here to show that there’s no one-size-fits-all approach to coming out.

The pages are filled with invaluable advice and insights. It also features inspirational quotes from leading 2SLGBTQ+ personalities, encouraging you to embrace your true self.

From Jacob’s coming out email to his mom to Kerry’s journey coming out as a lesbian in her late thirties, the diverse range of stories in this book will captivate and may help you.

ISBN: 9781787754959

Gender: Your Guide: A Gender-Friendly Primer on What to Know, What to Say, and What to Do in the New Gender Culture by Lee Airton

Gif of a person reading a book. — *Via GIPHY*

In today’s world, the idea of there being only two genders is outdated – if it ever truly existed. Lee Airton, a professor and advocate for gender diversity, explores the ever-evolving conversation surrounding gender in their book.

Many people want to use the correct gender diversity language, but they may feel unsure where to start. Airton’s guide simplifies your life, offering insights on how to accurately use the right terminology when referring to transgender, non-binary and/or gender non-conforming individuals. It also provides guidance on how to respectfully ask questions when you aren’t sure about what to say or do.

Consider this book your Google Maps, guiding you step by step toward a destination full of confidence and compassion in discussing gender diversity. From explaining the differences among gender identity, gender expression and sex to navigating the use of gender-neutral pronouns, this book covers it all.

ISBN: 9781507209011

Picture of "IGNITE Your Pride" t-shirt. — *Photo credits: IGNITE*

Why not grab one of these 2SLGBTQ+-focused books from the Humber Library and enjoy the warm weather in a nearby park while diving into pages? Visit the Humber Library’s 2SLGBTQ+ Education Guide for more books and resources.

And speaking of support, IGNITE’s commitment to diversity and inclusion goes beyond words. Each year, we proudly grant students the IGNITE Pride Scholarship. This $1000 scholarship awards five 2SLGBTQ+ students. We recognize and hope to address some of the unique financial obstacles this community faces.

The applications are open June 1 through June 30, so seize this opportunity and apply today!

If you have any other 2SLGBTQ+ book recommendations, share them with us @shareignite.

Feature image by Yoav Hornung via Unsplash.

Are you wondering how this scholarship helped previous recipients? Check out the 2023 IGNITE Pride Scholarship recipients!