New Autistic Queer and Trans Peer Group
A new online sanctuary offers connection for neuroqueer adults across British Columbia. The Autistic Queer & Trans Peer Group provides a regular, supportive space dedicated specifically to Autistic queer, trans, and questioning adults. Organized by Canucks Autism Network (CAN), the initiative runs year-round across fall, winter, spring, and summer, meeting for 1.5 hours monthly over Zoom.
First meeting: Thu, Jul 30, 6:30-8pm
LinK: canucksautism.ca/queer-trans
Navigating the intersection of autism and 2SLGBTQiA+ experiences comes with distinct rewards and challenges. This province-wide drop-in group focuses on building an accessible, relaxed environment where participants can share resources, talk through monthly themes, or simply engage in quiet coexistence.
Group Structure and Participation
Accessibility and comfort guide the format of these monthly gatherings.
Autistic-Led Design: Meetings are shaped and facilitated by a team of three Autistic peer leaders who guide discussions based directly on participant suggestions and input.
Diagnosis Not Required: The program is open to any adult (ages 18+) who self-identifies as Autistic. A formal diagnosis is entirely unnecessary to join.
Low-Barrier Drop-In Format: Participants sign up just once to receive monthly emails containing Zoom access details. There is no obligation to attend every session; individuals attend based entirely on their availability or interest in the specific theme of the month.
Zero-Expectation Attendance: New members are completely welcome to sit in on a meeting in any capacity, including keeping cameras or microphones off, without any pressure to actively speak or participate.
Meet the Facilitators
The group is anchored by three experienced neurodivergent and 2SLGBTQiA+ leaders dedicated to creating a trauma-informed, affirming container for all attendees.
Vesper (they/he): Bringing a background in psychology and public policy, Vesper focuses on strengths, accessibility, and confidence-building. Their approach is rooted in neurodiversity-affirming support, helping peers bring their full selves to the group.
Lynden (they/them): Operating from Lekwungen and W̱SÁNEĆ territories, Lynden is a queer, trans Autistic advocate with extensive experience in community organizing. They emphasize various styles of connection, including parallel play and quiet coexistence, to cultivate neuroqueer joy.
Emily (them/them): With over eight years of experience supporting queer, trans, and neurodivergent communities, Emily specializes in sustainable tools for community building. Outside of advocacy, they are an artist, reader, and cozy gamer.
Meeting Logistics and Accommodations
Meetings take place on the last Thursday of every month from 6:30 PM to 8:00 PM PDT over Zoom.
The organizing team is explicitly committed to ensuring every participant's communication preferences and sensory needs are respected. Attendees can submit any required accommodations, tools, or participation preferences directly during the registration process.
For those who feel anxious about entering a new group space, CAN also accommodates requests to meet one of the facilitators individually via Zoom before attending a full group session.
Registration Details
Inquiries & Accommodations: youthandadults@canucksautism.ca
Sign-Up Process: Registration is managed through the Canucks Autism Network Hub.