Positive Spaces Initiative
Many LGBTQ newcomers have a difficult time accessing settlement services due to homophobia and ignorance. It is sometimes easier to hide this part of one’s identity. This inspired the visual metaphor of a face with just one half visible. A starter kit, poster, website, and videos were produced with this stark imagery to encourage agencies to become positive spaces.
While doing research for this project, the coordinators of the Positive Spaces Initiative encountered a great deal of resistance and discomfort from settlement sector colleagues. However, when the campaign launched at OCASI's professional development conference, people responded very positively after seeing the videos. Requests for copies of the resources poured in, with thousands of prints and CDs being sent out to agencies across the province.
Video direction, video production & photography by Leslieville Production & Post.
Client: Ontario Council of Agencies Serving Immigrants
Agency: The Public