LGBTQ conversation

Shaun talked about the massive changes over the past decade or so of being accepting of the community. They came out in the 90’s and the term non binary was not accepted, not until 2016.

Online dating

Shaun doesn’t do it anymore. It hasn’t worked for them. They’d rather find personal connections. Camden agreed that the online world can be dangerous and doesn’t think it’s a good idea to meet online, if it can be avoided.

Shaun likes to keep it old school and wants to meet for coffee when it comes to dating.

How to get involved

Facebook groups have been great, Shaun advised. They were very good starting points for them.

Shaun advised reaching out to organizations in Nanaimo that do queer dances and dry grads etc. Shaun wanted to plug Queer Centre in Courtenay as they are helping bring queers together.

Camden talked about how her generation stays home and hangs out online, and that the human connection is fading. She’s looking for more spaces to connect and hang out as a teen.

Inclusivity

Shaun spoke about how she’s had challenges with people who “we are okay with her choice” and they find that a very offensive thing to say. As if this was a choice of hers.

It isn’t a closet, it’s just who they are as people.

Shaun’s hope and dream is that there’s no fear when it comes to ‘coming out of the closet’.

Parental behaviour

Shaun grew up in a blended family, gaining a step sister through the process, growing up together from age 7. Grew up in Calgary, middle class.

Shaun shared that the experience of her parents dying was big for her and traumatic. She was their primary caregiver. She moved here to care for them etc.

Shaun’s parents accepted them which is what they wanted and needed.

Camden spoke about her mom coming out as queer and the surprise and shock that she initially felt. It was that she only knew the mom and dad dynamic, so this was a curveball but she’s been grateful of her moms support.

Spreading love and rainbows

It’s Shaun’s mission. Leading with love is the way they go. It’s the daily mission. Smile and love. It’s hard to combat love.

Careers

At 15 (Camden’s age), what did Shaun want to be? A doctor. Straight up. They always wanted to help people, did pre-med at university and then pictured away from it.

Shaun’s dad worked in pharmaceuticals and when they left university they jumped right into a career there. Then switched it up to be self employed at a certain point and hasn’t looked back.

Shaun’s advice was for Camden to carve out her own path.