Laurier expert alert: Pride Month

May 27, 2024

WATERLOO — Each June, Pride Month honours the experiences and contributions of Two-Spirit, lesbian, gay, bisexual, trans, queer, questioning, intersex, asexual, and additional people who identify as part of sexual and gender diverse communities. Wilfrid Laurier University experts are available to speak about the contributions of 2SLGBTQQIA+ individuals and communities, discrimination against 2SLGBTQQIA+ communities, community health and related topics. Visit wlu.ca to learn more about how Laurier is celebrating Pride Month.

The following list includes experts who are available to speak at this time but does not represent the full breadth of expertise at Laurier. For a more comprehensive inventory of Laurier’s faculty researchers, consult the Experts at Laurier database. 

Jeffrey P. Aguinaldo, associate professor of Sociology, is an expert in gay men’s health and HIV/AIDS. His research looks at the intersection of health, society and interaction. Aguinaldo’s current research focuses on how sexual, gender, and other marked identities are disclosed in mundane interactional contexts. Contact: jaguinaldo@wlu.ca

Todd Coleman, assistant professor in the Department of Health Sciences, is an expert on community health, HIV/AIDS and sexual health. He is available to comment on the way health issues and access to health care vary based on sexual orientation and gender identities, as well as HIV prevention and other health-related issues that affect 2SLGBTQ+ communities. Contact: tcoleman@wlu.ca

Cameron McKenzie, assistant professor in the Faculty of Social Work, is an expert in 2SLGBTQ+ oppression, health equity, and government policies and programs. His current research examines the potential of a liberationist social movement, guided by an emerging Queer Liberation Theory, to influence policy and support the queer movement. Contact: camckenzie@wlu.ca 

Michael Woodford, professor in the Faculty of Social Work, is an expert on the well-being of 2SLGBTQ+ youth and the post-secondary campus climate students face. His research explores the effects of bullying and social exclusion on members of the 2SLGBTQ+ community; experiences on post-secondary campuses; subtle microaggressions and other forms of discrimination that can increase the risk for poor mental health and other negative outcomes; and factors that can promote resilience and well-being. Woodford is leading the Thriving on Campus Study, a province-wide study exploring the experiences, mental health and academic success of 2SLGBTQ+ university students throughout Ontario. Contact: mwoodford@wlu.ca

Learn more about Pride Month.