The ArQuives: Canada's Queer Archives

Published purpose

Through this 42-month project, The ArQuives will build stronger capacity of 2SLGBTQI+ community organizations and networks to advance 2SLGBTQI+ equality. It will build the capacity of the organization’s decision-making process, financial, human resources and change management, strategic planning, learning and collaboration approaches. The project will achieve these goals by developing long term vision and strategies, prioritizing organizational development, consulting the community on priorities, and conducting a fundraising feasibility study. This will enable the ArQuives to grow its collection and services and increase their impact throughout Canada. With the supplemental funds and extension provided in early 2026, The ArQuives will implement three interconnected activities: A) an Asset-Based Community Development (ACBD) process, B) governance and leadership strengthening, and C) strategic and resilience planning. This extended project will translate the findings of the prior consultation into concrete organizational systems, policies, and long-term sustainability frameworks. Rather than duplicating the earlier consultation phase, these activities will focus on implementation by developing tools and plans such as a community asset inventory, Community Outreach and Partnership Plan, accessibility policy, governance and decision-making protocols, leadership transition measures, and updated strategic and sustainability plans. Together, these activities will advance gender equity in Canada by strengthening the long-term capacity of The ArQuives to preserve and activate 2SLGBTQIA+ heritage through collections stewardship, public programming, exhibitions, and education. By embedding equity and accessibility into organizational systems, governance, and sustainability planning, and by strengthening community accountability and regional partnership frameworks, The ArQuives will help ensure that diverse sexualities and gender identities are documented, represented, valued, and celebrated within Canada’s historical record. Through these activities, the organization will further advance gender equality.