Connecting with Everyone: Communicating about Trans People with Dignity and Respect

Monday, March 17, 2025, 12 to 1 p.m. on Zoom

Over 100,815 Canadians identify as trans or non-binary. Yet their voices remain underrepresented in mainstream media. In a time of increasing global anti-trans hate fuelled by misinformation, communicators have an opportunity to show up as visible allies to trans people through inclusive and respectful communications.

To commemorate the Trans Day of Visibility (TDoV), IABC/Toronto invites you to a 60-minute virtual lunch ‘n’ learn to discuss best practices while communicating about trans, non-binary, and gender-diverse communities.

Facilitated by Dean Lobo (he/him), Senior Communications Advisor at The 519 and VP of Inclusion, Diversity, Equity, and Accessibility (IDEA) at IABC/Toronto, this session will meet you where you are; whether you’re just getting started or need a refresher.

Learning objectives:
• Understand language related to identities under the trans umbrella
• Practice bringing an intersectional lens to your communication
• Know what to do when your brand/client campaigns receive transphobic backlash

Dean Lobo is a seasoned senior communications strategist with a decade of experience across radio, television production, print and digital journalism, strategic communications, and media studies facilitation. He is a queer settler based in Tkaronto.

Throughout his career leading communications for various media outlets, corporations, and non-profit organizations, Dean has affected meaningful change through business strategies informed by equitable, inclusive, and accessible best practices.

In his current role as Senior Communications Advisor at The 519 — Canada’s largest 2SLGBTQ+ multi-service agency — Dean leads communications strategy, executive communications, social media management, fundraising, community engagement, media relations, colleague engagement, and capacity building for initiatives that benefit Toronto’s 2SLGBTQ+ communities.

As VP, IDEA of IABC’s largest global chapter, Dean continues to support the chapter in fostering individual and collective capacities to create impact as communicators.

Questions or accessibility requests? Email toronto-idea@iabc.to

NOTE: This event is open pan Canada

Fees:

• $15: IABC members ($16.95 with HST)

• $30: Non-members ($33.90 with HST)

Register here