This webinar will showcase the resulting resource of an engagement process and co-creation work involving numerous peer support workers throughout Ontario.

This webinar will bring awareness to language that has the potential to harm, and provides tangible alternatives that build trust, connection, empowerment and healing. We will also discuss strategies for creating change and shifting cultures towards using language that is anti-oppressive and empowering in relation to mental health and substance use.

By the end of the session, attendees will be able to identify language that has the potential for harm and be provided tangible alternatives they can use instead, that empower and support others. They will also have tangible reflections and actions they can take and practice to create change during their interactions with others; including community members, healthcare workers and various systems. A resource will be provided to attendees.

Attendees will be invited to reflect, ask questions and offer their own insights on the topic.

SPEAKER BIO: Alyssa Gremmen - Centre for Innovation in Peer Support

Over the last 15 years, Alyssa Gremmen has been a peer supporter, and has implemented and coordinated peer programs focused on youth empowerment, mental health and harm reduction. As the Peer Integration and Systems Lead at Support House’s Centre for Innovation in Peer Support, she supports partner organizations in implementing, integrating and sustaining peer support.