Swimwear giveaway at TMU’s Trans and Gender Diverse swim sessions

TMU’s Athletics and Recreation department has partnered with RUBIES (external link) , a clothing company that creates form-fitting options for trans and non-binary women and girls, to give away free swimwear during the university’s long-standing Trans and Gender Diverse swim times at the RAC. 

Created with support from TMU’s Fashion Zone, RUBIES was founded four years ago by Jamie Alexander. Inspired by his daughter, Ruby, who transitioned at the age of nine, RUBIES offers trans and non-binary women and girls safe clothing options, clothes that they want to wear and the ability to enjoy the activities they love without fear. 

“Lots of people stop swimming. We want to support families and help people feel comfortable doing what they love,” Alexander said.

Trans and Gender Diverse swim times at the RAC happen year-round on Mondays, Tuesdays and Thursdays from 1:45 to 3:00 p.m. Anyone who attends will receive a free RUBIES Sky Shaping One Piece (external link) . 

In an effort to provide support for the Trans and Gender Diverse community, Alexander has committed to continue the giveaway beyond November’s Trans Awareness Month and will be offering free swimwear until January 2024 at these weekly swim times in the RAC. 

“We’ve always had a strong give-back program,” said Alexander. “RUBIES was designed not only to provide support with trans and non-binary women in mind, but to also show support and action for the community.”

Trans Awareness Month activities at TMU

In addition to the RUBIES partnership, TMU Athletics and Recreation offers a free trial membership to the RAC and MAC where people can try Trans and Allies group fitness classes and have access to inclusive and accessible change spaces. 

For more information about Trans Awareness Month events at TMU, visit the Positive Space site.