Arctic Winter Games participants have access to a variety of lounges and entertainment spaces at their accommodations, including something new this year: brave spaces.

Brave spaces are safe, inclusive spaces intended to help athletes connect with others and find belonging, said Keri Rutherford, a volunteer with the host society. 

“These spaces provide a supportive environment for athletes and participants where they can be themselves, they can share stories and they can engage in meaningful conversations.”

The brave spaces are located in all of athlete accommodations — athletes are staying at local schools in Whitehorse — and offer activities, pronoun pins and flags. Volunteers are also available for athletes to speak with if they need to.

They are replacing the Pride House that was created for the 2020 Arctic Winter Games that were set to take place in Whitehorse before they were cancelled due to the Covid-19 pandemic. The Pride House was intended to be a safe space for 2SLGBTQ+ athletes, but the brave spaces are open to everyone, including coaches and mission staff.

A place to relax, play video games or connect with people

“It doesn’t matter who you are or how you identify; these spaces are open to you,” Rutherford said. “We really just want these spaces to support mental wellness, encourage inclusion and belonging and celebrate diversity within our northern communities.”

Athletes at the games are using the brave spaces in different ways. While some are using them to simply play video games with their friends, others say they appreciate that their accommodations offer safe places to relax and connect with new people. 

“It’s a really nice space, like, super relaxing, just very fun and welcoming,” said Team Yukon badminton player Kara McLean.

“I think it’s just important if anyone’s feeling left out, if they don’t have big connections with their teammates, maybe that’s a place they can go and make connections with others and have that safe space with no judgment.”

Team Alberta North futsal players Addisyn Juhlin and Kinley Budgell said they had been using the spaces to play board games, trade pins and watch TV.

“It’s a safe space if people need to go there just to have a quick chat. If you’re feeling down, you could go talk to someone.” Budgell said.

“It’s a good experience just to meet new people as well if you need that, especially because I find it better to talk to people and tell them what you’re feeling because they’ll give you advice, and it will help.”