Investigaytors, the data-driven journey into 2SLGBTQ+ community-based research, may sound intimidating. The program teaches 2SLGBTQ+ community members the basics of community-based research, aiming to answer burning questions, and learn about queer and trans health.
The program has previously led participants to present their research back to the community locally and at the CBRC’s national summit. One former Investigaytor wants you to know there’s nothing to fear. Sammy (he/him) reflects on his time with the program, and how it can help connect you with community members!
Q: One of the major priorities of the Investigaytors program is to create a safe, inclusive and non-sexualized space for queer and trans folks to connect. In what ways has the program helped you connect with your community?
The aptly named InvestiGAYtors program provides an extremely welcoming, engaging, and comfortable space for folks of all identities and backgrounds to come together in the name of community-based research. As queer folks, it allowed us to fully take the lead in identifying and exploring research questions that were meaningful and pressing for us and our own communities. This program truly promotes research conducted by, with, and for 2SLGBTQ+ folks.
Q: In the Investigaytors program, people can expect to build their community-based research skills, which can be applied through the planning and execution of an original project. What was your biggest take-away from your experience?
Research does not have to be confined to the world of academia and institutional education, nor should it be. By tapping into our own lived experiences as queer people and prioritizing open collaboration and dialogue with our diverse communities, we are able to conduct meaningful and rigorous research that has lead to tangible impacts and positive feedback.
Q: Anyone who is considering joining this program has a ton to offer, regardless of what sort of experience they already have. What are some of the things other folks with you in Investigaytors brought to the program?
It was absolutely inspiring and humbling to discover the unique experiences, talents, and perspectives that every single participant brought to the program. Some came with finely-honed data analysis skills and research methodologies, and others came with first hand experience in the social services and healthcare sectors. Some folks wanted the chance to explore their own pressing questions or expand their skill sets, while others had never been involved with research before but absolutely LOVED creating spreadsheets in Excel.
Q: Any last words to those who are thinking about signing up?
I think that the term “research” can sometimes be quite daunting. In fact, I was nervous to sign up for the program because I was worried that I didn’t have the right skills and wouldn’t have anything of value to contribute. I quickly learned, however, that as a human being with years of experience living as “me”, I was equipped with all that I needed to engage with the program and contribute to a truly unique and beautiful process. There is room for absolutely everyone in this program. Confident in your research skills and want to contribute to queer-based research? Awesome! Never even thought about research or nervous to try something new? Perfect! Investigaytors is for you.
Investigaytors begins this Septemeber, engaging participants for up to two hours each week for seven months. The data-driven project can teach you about community-based research, including topics like like qualitative and quantitative research methods, data collection and analysis, research design, and more
No experience is necessary, and participants will have the chance to conduct their own 2SLGBTQ+ community research project! Investigaytors program kicks off soon; click here to learn more! Check out the work from last year’s project here!