I wanted to write a post that would serve as a starting point for men wishing to begin exploring their role in regards to sexual violence. Though none of the following is truly gender specific, I wrote it thinking of the few men who have reached out to me asking how they can support and what they can do to learn more.

It all begins with an idea.

An open letter, to you. I’m writing this under the assumption that you remain oblivious as to why the way you behaved is considered inappropriate. I am choosing to believe that perhaps you have been too busy to read any articles about the #metoo movement, notably its impact and resonance within our own Toronto dance community

In February 2016, I experienced a series of instances of sexual harassment with a Toronto choreographer. In the fall of 2017, when the Harvey Weinstein scandal broke & the #metoo movement swelled in earnest, my whole world shifted & I saw my experience in a new light.

This fall was really special, as SExT - in partnership with The Canadian Foundation for AIDS Research (CANFAR) - made music videos for two of their original songs. The first, Bodak Consent, plays on Cardi B's epic summer hit Bodak Yellow, & teaches the concept of consensual sexual behaviour.

"The dancing and choreography (by Ming-Bo Lam), mostly performed by the chorus and Mixie and Trixie’s blonde shadows, is terrific, energetic, and lots of fun." - Mooney on Theatre

This February has been an incredible journey into the world of Ed Mirvish & Honest Ed's. Together, with five other interdisciplinary artists, I helped create an immersive replica of the legendary department store - complete with a life-size, light-up sign!

Last summer, I had the immense privilege of working with some of the most dedicated and forward thinking individuals I've ever met. The cast of SeXT: Sex Education by Theatre, under the direction of Shira Taylor, performed at both the 2016 Toronto Fringe Festival and the 2016 Summerworks Festival. I had the honour of choreographing a powerful duet, addressing domestic violence, and assisting in additional movement/choreographic coaching.