SIXpo is a three-week festival that’s all about exploring sexual wellness and relationships. Made by and for people with disabilities, the festival is a mix of virtual and in-person events. It features a wide range of panel discussions, workshops, and presentations from experts and advocates. The events are created with accessibility in mind and include ASL interpreters, image descriptions, closed captioning, and trigger warnings. From introductory sessions to in-depth conversations on sexual health, consent, and identity, SIXpo has something for everyone.

Here are some of the highlights from this year’s online festival:

Sexual Misconduct and Assault

The festival started off strong with the first day of events featuring a workshop from Dr. Margret Newbury Jones, an expert in the disability field with over 30 years of experience. The discussion focused on what a safe relationship might look like, the meaning of consent, how to stay safe, and what to do if you experience sexual misconduct and assault.

Intro To Transcending Gender

Next on the list is an inspiring talk by Tien Neo Eamas! Originally from Singapore, he was the first Asian bi-gendered transman to transition publicly during a time when LGBTQ awareness was rare in Vancouver.⁠ He opened up about his experience of family violence, sexism, homophobia, racism, and trans- and gender-phobia and how he transformed his struggle into joy.

How to Plan a Date

Dating is tough… That’s why Gena Tobin designed an interactive workshop that makes dating a little easier. She touched on everything from elements of a date and brainstorming date ideas to discussing how reality tv differs from real life.
Dating Profile Presentation

The last day of the online festival wrapped up with a presentation that was all about dating profiles. It focused on dating apps, accessibility features, and pricing.

 

Though the online events have come to a close, the in-person events have kicked off!

When: April 20th-22nd, 2023

Where: Mount Pleasant Heritage Hall (3102 Main St, Vancouver, BC)

You can get there by bus:

  • Bus 3 from Science World sky train: stop at Main Street and 14th and walk 2 minutes
  • Bus 19 from Burnaby: stop at Kingsway and 12th and walk 10 minutes
  • Bus 9 or 99 from Commercial Broadway: stop at Main Street and walk 13-15 minutes

For people who are driving, there will be space in front of Heritage Hall for pick up and drop off.

The festival will finish off with an epic afterparty on Saturday night!  Learn more here.