We want Girl Guides to be a place where everyone can say, “I belong”
At Girl Guides of Canada, we’re building a space where everyone feels seen, respected and celebrated for who they are. GGC is a place where all caregivers, volunteers and community members know they’re welcome. That means creating spaces where all girls and youth, no matter their background, race, gender identity, ability, beliefs, family structure or lived experience can thrive without barriers, question or fear.
Our programs, activities and community reflect the diversity of the world we live in and the inclusive future we’re building together. When youth feel like they truly belong, they grow into confident leaders who inspire others and take action for a better world. Inclusion doesn’t just make Girl Guides stronger – it makes our communities stronger.
Why is Girl Guides right for me or my child?
We welcome:
Girls and youth of all abilities
Youth who are new to Canada
Trans and non-binary and gender-diverse youth
Families of all backgrounds, beliefs and identities
Inclusion in action
Inclusion isn’t just something we believe in – it’s something we bring to life every day.
Choose a section below to see what that looks like in action
Supporting transgender and non-binary youth
Amplifying Indigenous voices
- GGC takes an individualized approach to accessibility, working closely with caregivers and members to meet individual needs.
- While every space and event may look different, we’re dedicated to ensuring everyone feels safe and comfortable.
- We collaborate with volunteers to adapt programming and remove barriers wherever needed.
- Our Guidelines for Members Accompanied by a Support Person promotes consistency, inclusion, and safety across all units. Supports may include physical accommodations, sensory-friendly options, flexible communication approaches, and more.
- In 2022, our branch for 7–8-year-olds was renamed Embers. This change came in response to member feedback that the old name had become a barrier for racialized girls and caused feelings of exclusion. Learn more.
- GGC welcomes cisgender and transgender girls and women, as well as non-binary and two-spirit youth who feel comfortable in female-focused spaces.
- We actively create a culture of safety, belonging, and celebration; youth are embraced for who they are with respect, warmth, and understanding.
- Preferred names and pronouns are always used.
- Guidelines for the Inclusion of Transgender and Non-binary Members support safe, welcoming, and affirming environments for all.
- GGC is committed to reconciliation by centering Indigenous voices and lived experiences across all aspects of Guiding.
- The National Indigenous Advisory Circle (NIAC) is one of the ways we take action on that commitment – it connects Indigenous girls, youth, women, and Two-Spirit people from across Canada.
- NIAC members offer guidance on inclusion, share Indigenous knowledge, and help break down barriers for Indigenous members in Guiding.
- NIAC is open to any Indigenous, First Nations, Métis, or Inuit youth or adult member.
What belonging feels like – from our members
“To me Guiding has been a way of life. I became a Guide at the age of 15 and have been involved for 60+ years. The basics, the Promise and Law, the friends l have made – they’re all part of who l am today. When l see the Trefoil displayed l have the feeling – that’s a part of me! To all girls and women, don't miss out on this adventure of a lifetime.”
National Indigenous Advisory Council member
"There is something that is so meaningful when a Ranger you've known since they were a Pathfinder comes to you and tells you that they trust you. When they share the big moments with you because they know that Guiding is the one place that they won't be judged and that their Guiders honestly care about them. I keep coming back because that means just as much as teaching them how to advocate for change or build a fire."
Guider Chickadee
Resources for accessibility and inclusion
- Guideability:
A practical, comprehensive guide offering tools and tips to help Guiders and volunteers create accessible, welcoming spaces that support youth with a wide range of disabilities and diverse needs.
- Anti-racism resources:
Tools and trainings to help Guiders and caregivers understand racism, support racialized members, and take meaningful action against racism within Guiding and beyond.
- Guiding is for Everyone:
A commitment to inclusion supported by practical guidance and ongoing learning to help volunteers and staff create safe, welcoming spaces for all youth and caregivers.
- Subsidies and financial support:
Details on GGC’s membership fee subsidy program and other financial supports to help remove cost-related barriers and ensure every girl can participate fully in Guiding.
Frequently asked questions
1. What does DEIA mean at GGC and why is it important?
DEIA stands for diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility. At GGC, it means actively ensuring every youth, volunteer and staff member is welcomed, respected and able to participate no matter their background, identity or abilities. DEIA is essential for creating a Guiding experience where everyone can feel safe and like they truly belong.
2. My child is autistic, has specific needs or requires additional support. Can they join Girl Guides?
Absolutely. Girl Guides of Canada welcomes youth with a wide range of support needs, including developmental, sensory, physical, mental health, learning and chronic health conditions. We take an individualized approach to reduce barriers and create inclusive spaces where every youth can participate meaningfully. To explore how we can support your child’s experience, please contact inclusivity@girlguides.ca with the subject line “accessibility request”
3. Does GGC welcome youth or volunteers who identify as a transgender girl or woman, non-binary and two-spirit people who feel comfortable in a female-focused space?
Yes. GGC affirms and welcomes gender diverse members, volunteers and youth. Transgender girls and women, nonbinary, and two-spirit people are fully supported in joining . We also promote the use of inclusive language, offer flexible programming options and respect personal pronouns to ensure members feel seen and respected.
4. How does GGC support Indigenous inclusion?
5. How is GGC addressing systemic barriers?
GGC reviews its policies, programs, and training to identify and remove systemic barriers. This includes ongoing DEIA training, promoting and embedding inclusive language in units and communications and ensuring mentorship and leadership opportunities reflect diverse representation.
Connect with us
We’re here to support you. Whether you have questions about accommodations, accessibility needs, or any concerns about inclusion, please reach out to inclusivity@girlguides.ca
Our team is ready to listen and help make your Guiding experience welcoming and accessible.
If you are a member of GGC and would like to see our full collection of Inclusivity and Accessibility documents, please visit the Diversity and Inclusion page on Member Zone.