Last Updated: Aug 4, 2025

Data Policy

At Black Queer Canada, we are committed to protecting the privacy, dignity, and safety of Black 2SLGBTQI+ communities. This Data Policy explains how we collect, use, store, share, and protect your data, and outlines your rights as a participant in our community.

1. What Data We Collect

We may collect the following types of data when you interact with BQC online or in person:

Personal Information: Name, email, phone number, date of birth, address, pronouns (if provided), and demographic information (optional).
Engagement Data: Event registrations, resource downloads, community participation, surveys, and feedback.
Communications Data: Messages, emails, and responses to our outreach or campaigns.
Usage Data: Device type, IP address, browser type, and how you interact with our website or app (pages visited, time spent, etc.).
Media and Content: Photos, videos, or written submissions you choose to share for events, campaigns, or storytelling (with your explicit consent).

2. How We Use Your Data

We use your data to:

Facilitate participation in events, workshops, and community programs.
Provide access to resources, updates, and relevant opportunities.
Communicate important news, advocacy, and impact stories.
Improve our programs, services, and digital platforms.
Understand community needs and trends (in aggregate, non-identifiable ways).
Ensure safety, accessibility, and inclusion for all community members.

3. Data Security & Protection

We are committed to strong data security practices. We:

Store your data on secure, encrypted servers.
Restrict access to authorized personnel only.
Regularly review and update our security measures.
Require explicit consent before sharing photos, stories, or identifying information publicly.

4. Data Sharing & Disclosure

We do not sell your personal data. We may share your data only with:

Trusted third-party service providers (e.g., event platforms, email services) under strict confidentiality.
Legal authorities, if required by law or to protect community safety.
Partners or funders, only in aggregate or anonymized form (never identifying individuals without explicit consent).

5. Data Retention

We retain your data only as long as necessary for the purposes outlined above or as required by law.
You may request deletion or correction of your data at any time by contacting us.

6. Your Rights

You have the right to:

Access, update, or request deletion of your personal data.
Withdraw consent for communications or data use at any time.
Request information about how your data is used or shared.
Raise concerns about privacy, safety, or misuse.

7. Children & Youth

We do not knowingly collect data from individuals under 18 without parental or guardian consent.
Youth participation in BQC programs requires appropriate consent and additional privacy safeguards.

8. Cookies & Tracking

We use cookies and similar technologies to enhance your experience and analyze website performance.
You may manage your cookie preferences in your browser settings.

9. Third-Party Links

Our website or communications may contain links to external sites. We are not responsible for their data practices and encourage you to review their policies.