Upcoming Events
Queer Halloween
Get ready for a spooky night of costumes, dancing, and fun!
Gender Equality Coalition of Ontario (GECO) and Rainbow Connections present Queer Halloween - a free, all-ages (12+ and Adults) event.
Join us for pumpkin carving, costume contests for individuals and groups, dancing, and more! Registration required for this free event. Soft drinks and snacks provided.
This is a sober/substance free event.
Speakers’ Series #2
Building Bridges Across Differences: Countering GBV and Hate in London and across Ontario
Gender Equality Coalition of Ontario is excited to present the second Speaker's Series on November 5. This month’s topic is "Building Bridges Across Differences: Countering Gender Based Violence and Hate in London and across Ontario" and features 3 speakers. This is a free, online event. Don’t miss out on some excellent insight.
Speaker Line-up:
Holly Meaney is the Community Engagement and Research Coordinator at Changing Ways, and a PhD Candidate and sociologist specializing in gender-based violence intervention and the engagement of men and boys in anti-violence efforts. With over eight years of experience facilitating Partner Assault Response (PAR) groups for men charged with domestic violence offenses, Holly brings a deep understanding of frontline intervention work. She is passionate about building cross-sector collaborations, leading research initiatives, and fostering community partnerships to advance meaningful violence prevention.
Allison Preyde is the Manager of Prevention and Education at Anova in London, ON. Anova is the largest women’s shelter in Ontario, and has been offering trauma-informed feminist care for over 40 years. Allison is a seasoned facilitator with over a decade of experience engaging youth, post-secondary students, and professionals on topics related to gender-based violence and trauma.
Jennifer Dunn is the Executive Director of the London Abused Women's Centre. Jennifer has been at the Centre for 14 years and has held various roles. Jennifer is passionate about working toward ending violence against women because she believes in the fundamental right of every woman to live without fear of harm or violence. Jennifer has appeared before all levels of government to advocate for change, raise awareness, and support victims and survivors. In her personal life, Jennifer is a mom to a 11-year-old twins and enjoys spending time near water and in her garden.
Jeff Perera (Moderator) Since 2008 Jeff has spoken to tens of thousands of across North America / Turtle Island and beyond about gender and masculinities, empathy-building, men helping end gender-based violence and striving to be allies towards gender equity. Jeff started Higher Unlearning as an online space to share his written pieces, videos, and TEDx talks, exploring how men can be a part of change by being the lesson in action.
Trans Day of Remembrance
Join us for a quiet evening of community and reflection. This year Rainbow Connections is honored to provide a space on Trans Day of Remembrance for 2SLGBTQIA+ folks to gather and support each other. The evening will include light refreshments, time to mingle and chat with other community members, and a screening of Disclosure. (Movie contains mature/triggering themes - view discretion is advised.)
Free event; no registration required
October 31, 2025
6 - 9 PM
CASO Station
750 Talbot Street, St Thomas, Ontario
November 5, 2025
7:00 - 8:30 PM
Online Event
November 20, 2025
5:30 - 8:00 PM
St Thomas Public Library, Carnegie Room
153 Curtis Street, St Thomas, ON
Community Christmas Tree Spectacular
Rainbow Connections is getting into the holiday spirit! We've sponsored a Christmas Tree for the Community Christmas Tree Spectacular. It's been decorated with help from members of our Queer Qlub 2SLGBTQIA+ youth group. If you spot our rainbow tree, be sure to post a photo and tag us: Instagram & Facebook @rainbowconnectionsgeco
Celebrate the holidays with dazzling lights, festive activities, and family traditions at Elgin County Railway Museum’s Community Christmas Tree Spectacular. Admission by donation.
Nov 14 to Dec 28, 2025
Fri, Sat & Sundays
Elgin County Railway Museum
225 Wellington Steet, St Thomas, Ontario
Speakers’ Series #3
Queer Elders
Gender Equality Coalition of Ontario is excited to present the third Speaker's Series on Wednesday, December 3. This month’s topic is "Queer Elders" and features 3 speakers. This is a free, in-person event at the CASO Station in St Thomas. Don’t miss out on some unique insight.
Speaker Line-up:
Neil Hubert Currently I am a Board member at the St Thomas Elgin Public Art Centre and an enthusiastic volunteer at Harvest Hands. I am on the Executive and Planning Committees for Elgin County Pride and Queer Prom.
I am a participant in the Oxford Elgin Rainbow Researches, Community Advisory Group.
I work for an organization of approximately 70 employees. Myself and one recently hired colleague are the only two Out employees.
Through my employment, I am the secretary for a Provincial Child Welfare 2SLGBTQIA+ committee, and provide support for a monthly Queer Youth group and various other queer initiatives.
Hallie Abram I am currently in the role of Office Administation for the N'Amernind Friendship Centre. I have been working and volunteering in the London Urban Community for over 25 years. Being a helper is a way of life. Everything I put my hand to comes from my heart. I am blessed.
Sister Patricia Derouin Sister Patricia Derouin is a fierce elder in the 2SLGBTQIA+ community who has been dedicated to activism, connect and protection of her community. A 72 year young old fashioned/old school butch lesbian currently living in the London ON region.
Her activism spans generations from rallies on Parliament Hill, marches on Elgin St. and Toronto. In 2023, she was recognized Ken Sadler Pride Award for her exceptional work in improving the lives of London's Queer and Two-Spirit communities. As well, she was the Grand Marshall of the 2025 London Pride Festival Parade. Most recently known as the founder of Drag Storytime Guardians and Guardians in Action, a province wide network of 1000 members who work tirelessly providing support and protection to the Queer community showing up on her signature battle vest covered in patches that tell a story of Queer history.
Devon Church (Moderator) Devon has dedicated his life to helping others, with the last two decades strongly focused on advocating for vulnerable populations, specifically 2SLGBTQIA+ rights.
Originally focused on specializing in behavioural dementias and palliative care, Devon learned quickly how to build honest and trusting therapeutic nurse client relationships. His compassion, kindness and humour has continued to be his lighthouse throughout his nursing career.
Devon is a member of the Canadian Professional Association for Transgender Health (CPATH) and the Chair of Elgin County Pride. Devon also works with local agencies and health care providers, advancing local knowledge on gender-affirming care.
December 3, 2025
7:00 - 8:30 PM
CASO Station
750 Talbot Street, St Thomas, ON
ConnectHer: Building Bridges for Working Women Across Canada
Register for FREE by visiting https://site.pheedloop.com/event/connecther2025/home
Location: London, Ontario - Fanshawe College, Innovation Village
Calling all tradeswomen, mentors, allies, and supporters across the province and land!
Join us May 1st to May 3rd for the 2025 ConnectHER Conference - Building Bridges for Working Women Across Canada!
We’re excited to invite you to a FREE gathering of exciting speakers and community leaders, as we celebrate workers, amplify the voices of women in the trades, and build lasting connections across industries and communities!
This powerful and inclusive conference brings together tradeswomen, industry leaders, union activists, and community advocates. We’ll spotlight lived experiences, challenge systemic barriers, and share practical strategies for creating change.
Join us for 3 days of building bridges between generations, sectors, and identities. Let’s come together, celebrate progress, and continue pushing for equity, dignity, and justice at work and beyond.
Speakers joining us will include:
Andria Barrett, Anna Lary, Ashley Rowe, Astara van der Jagt, Caroline Hossein, Dani Bartlett, Erin Davis, Dani Bartlett, Haily MacDonald, Heather Carey, Jeff Perera, Jen Slay, Jessie Jones, Jolin Joseph, Jove Nazatul, Judy Rebick, Kathryn Thomas, Laurie Millard, Leisha Toory, Lily Pourzand, Melissa Maloney, Nitya Rani Balla, PK Mutch, Robyn Schwarz, & Stephanie Allen!
Register for FREE by visiting https://site.pheedloop.com/event/connecther2025/home
stay tuned as we announce more details By following us on our Socials!
Join us in building bridges and empowering women across Canada!
Women in Trades Mix and Mingle Reception
Join us for an empowering evening at the Women in Trades Mix & Mingle Reception! Taking place on April 17, 2025, at Anderson Craft Ales in London, this event brings together tradeswomen and allies for a night of networking, community, and celebration. Enjoy nibbles, drinks, prizes, and the chance to connect with others passionate about building change in the trades. Let’s raise a glass to sisterhood and solidarity!
Sign up here if interested: https://www.eventbrite.ca/e/women-in-trade-mix-and-mingle-tickets-1298641655149?aff=ebdssbdestsearch
Write for Rights
join the Gender Equality Coalition of Ontario and the London Public Libraries for a Write for Rights Youth Event on February 19th from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at the CitiPlaza Library (251 Dundas Street, London, Ontario). We’ll start with a 30-minute presentation about the initiative and how you can make a difference, followed by a session on persuasive writing. After that, enjoy an hour and a half of drop-in and letter writing time where you can write, ask questions, and learn more. Never heard of Write for Rights? Write for Rights is a global campaign that uses the power of letter-writing to defend individuals who are experiencing human rights injustices around the world.
UWO Volunteer Fair
Join us The Gender Equality Coalition of Ontario (GECO) at this years Volunteer fair at Western University. Learn more about how to involved and answers to all your questions!
GALA
Welcome to the Gender Equality Coalition of Ontario AGM! Join us for an exciting in-person event at the Goodwill Community Store. This is a great opportunity to connect with like-minded individuals who are passionate about gender equality. Our annual general meeting will feature discussions, presentations, and networking opportunities. Come be a part of the conversation and help shape the future of gender equality in Ontario. We look forward to seeing you there!
Annual General Meeting - AGM
board members need to attend to hit quorum. It will take place via zoom, prior to the GALA. Message Amanda if you are having trouble finding the zoom link.
GECO Virtual Speaker Series: Topic TBA
Join us for our monthly Virtual Speaker Series Event for an evening including a panel of activists, experts, allies in educating and empowering others towards gender justice for all.
GECO Virtual Speaker Series: Topic TBA
Join us for our monthly Virtual Speaker Series Event for an evening including a panel of activists, experts, allies in educating and empowering others towards gender justice for all.
GECO Virtual Speaker Series: Sisters in Sync
Join us for our monthly Virtual Speaker Series Event for an evening including a panel of activists, experts, allies in educating and empowering others towards gender justice for all.
GECO Virtual Speaker Series: Gender & Inclusion of Men
Join us for our monthly Virtual Speaker Series Event for an evening including a panel of activists, experts, allies in educating and empowering others towards gender justice for all.
Radical Wellness Event
Join us on Sunday February 25, 2024 for a day of radical wellness. We will host several interactive presentations around radical well-being. Many of us give to our communities and forget that we need to nurture ourselves to continue to give to others. This event will feature guest speakers, vendors, and experiences surrounding the idea that well-being and self-care is radically important. Self care is a form of radical resistance.
Addressing & Preventing Gender-Based Violence in Communities
Join Fanshawe SLLS & GECO for our Speaker Series event. Hosted at Fanshawe College! All are welcome to attend this FREE learning event.
GECO Virtual Speaker Series: Gender & Law
Join us for our monthly Virtual Speaker Series Event for an evening including a panel of activists, experts, allies in educating and empowering others towards gender justice for all.
GECO Virtual Speaker Series: Addressing the Crisis of Domestic Violence
Join us for our monthly Virtual Speaker Series Event for an evening including a panel of activists, experts, allies in educating and empowering others towards gender justice for all.
GECO Virtual Speaker Series: Women In Tech
Join us for our monthly Virtual Speaker Series Event for an evening including a panel of activists, experts, allies in educating and empowering others towards gender justice for all.
Gathering for National Day for Truth and Reconciliation
We are proud to promote a community initiative by Atlosha Family Healing Services and Deshkan Ziibiing in honour of National Day for Truth and Reconciliation. Held at the Western Fair Agriplex. All are welcome.
National Day for Truth and Reconciliation
National Day for Truth and Reconciliation is a day to honor Indigenous cultures, acknowledge the historical injustices faced by Indigenous peoples, and work towards reconciliation. Click here to learn about the ways that YOU can participate in this important day.
The Nature of Healing
The Nature of Healing
Film Screening and Q&A with Survivors of Mohawk Institute
The Western University Deans invite you to join for an afternoon of reflection, learning, and conversation in recognition of the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation.
The Faculty of Education is hosting a screening of the documentary film “The Nature of Healing”, and facilitated Q&A session with film maker, Faith Howe, and three survivors of the Mohawk Institute: Grandmother Roberta Hill, Elder John Elliot, and Elder Bud Whiteye.
Following the screening and Q&A, attendees will move to Wampum Learning Lodge for a reception with Indigenous-inspired hors d'oeuvres catered by Teykonyote Antone.
The Nature of Healing
The Nature of Healing is the spoken truth of seven Survivors of Mohawk Institute, Canada’s first and longest running residential school for Indigenous children. From victim to survivor, to activist, this is a story of resistance, resilience, and a healing path. What began as a simple conversation about the Mohawk Village Memorial Park the Survivors have been building for 10 years, became a full feature documentary. And now it needs to be a completed Park to commemorate the 15,000 children who were taken from more then 60 communities losing their families, communities, culture, identity and for some, their lives.
The 139 residential schools, operated in partnership with the Canadian Government and Churches were Canada’s sanctioned system of dehumanization; neglect, brutality, and child abuse in all its forms to obliterate the Red Nation footprint.
The Elders, Grandfathers and Grandmothers who speak out now, do so not only for themselves, but for the thousands of children across Turtle Island who never could.
Schedule:
12:00 p.m. - Doors Open
12:30 p.m. - Opening Ceremony and Smudging
1:00 p.m. - Film Screening
2:30 p.m. - Q&A
3:30 p.m. - Closing Ceremony
4:00 p.m. - Reception at Wampum Learning Lodge (next to Faculty of Education Building)
If you would like to attend this event, please register online as space is limited.
In the spirit of the making of this film, a contribution of $10.00 per attendee is strongly suggested. Proceeds from the event will be donated to directly support the completion of the Mohawk Village Memorial Park. Located on the grounds of the former Mohawk Institute at 184 Mohawk St. in Brantford, Ont., the upcoming 5-acre memorial park will consist of memorials, walking paths and decorative landscaping as well as a variety of accessible park features.
A link to the contribution form will be provided following registration. You can also access the contribution form here: Faculty of Education - Contribution to Nature of Healing Event (uwo.ca).
Contact:
hbeecrof@uwo.ca
519-661-2111 ext. 88658
YWCA Speaker Series
Join the YWCA Speaker Series talk entitled: “Opening Doors: Towards Inclusive and Affirming Gender-Based Violence Supports” - including GECO’s very own Board Member, panelist, Jolin Joseph - for the launch of their national research report as they unpack what meaningful investments in gender-based violence prevention and response should look like across Canada.
This panel discussion brings together frontline service providers and community-based organizations to discuss inclusive survivor-centered models of care and service delivery that recognize and respond to the distinct needs of every gender-based violence survivor, particularly those who face increased barriers to safety.
Featured speakers include: Nneka MacGregor (Executive Director, WomenatthecentrE) Amy FitzGerald (Executive Director, BC Society of Transition Houses) Amy Deschamps (Director of Housing and Gender-Based Violence Support Services, YWCA Hamilton) Jolin Joseph (Manager – Research, Education and Knowledge Mobilization, YWCA Canada).
This event is free.
Closed captioning and live French interpretation will be provided.
Register here!
GECO Gender Equality Gala
Join us at the beautiful Wolf Performance Hall in downtown London. This evening reception to celebrate gender equality will feature an exquisite sound bath musical experience, local spoken word poetry, a short presentation about the fifth wave of feminism, and a silent auction that will include the sale of local art. You will learn about community activism and how to become more involved in seeking gender justice for all. You will have an opportunity to network and mingle among social justice advocates in our community. This will be a night to remember!
All Women L.E.A.D. Speaker Series Event
We are beyond excited to promote this exciting speaker series event, facilitated by GECO’s very own Board Member and Advocacy Chair, Mojdeh Cox!
Join All Women L.E.A.D. on Monday at 5:00pm EST for the first event in their "Take Your Place" Series.
They will be joined by Bonnie DePaul Rachel Wells and Carolynn Conron... and faciliated by the incredible Mojdeh Cox!
Register for tickets at www.allwomenlead.ca
Community members attend for free! You can register for the community at the same link.
International Equal Pay Day
Celebrating International Equal Pay Day is a great way to raise awareness about gender pay disparities and promote gender equality in the workplace. Click here to learn about the ways that YOU can participate in this important day.
World Suicide Prevention Day
World Suicide Prevention Day is a day dedicated to raising awareness about suicide prevention, reducing stigma surrounding mental health issues, and promoting support for individuals who may be struggling with suicidal thoughts or feelings. Click here to learn about the ways that YOU can participate in this important day.