Statement from Sherbourne Health regarding anti-trans hate
The social climate regarding transgender and non-binary youth and adults has recently seen a negative shift. A move towards hate, to sharing misinformation and lies about gender-affirming care is growing across Canada. Access to timely health care, especially in the case of trans and non-binary youth, is being questioned and denounced by anti-trans individuals and groups.
At Sherbourne Health, we provide care and community programs for Two Spirit, lesbian, gay, bisexual, queer and trans and non-binary people, as well as people experiencing homelessness and newcomers to Canada. Many of our clients are racialized, experiencing poverty and mental health challenges – all of which can be exacerbated by transphobia and homophobia, and make them greater targets for hate. We have seen firsthand the value of timely, affirming care for trans and non-binary individuals. We also rely on evidence-based data, which repeatedly confirms that informed, affirming care for trans and non-binary people makes a measurable difference to their health, wellbeing, and ability to survive and thrive.
Ontario-based research has indicated that timely access to gender-affirming care can reduce suicidal ideation and risk, and that parental support, including access to care, can reduce the risk of suicide for all ages (1). The research indicates a clear takeaway: trans affirming care is life-saving.
As healthcare providers, we know that accessible, affirming health care for trans and non-binary people is a right, and the right thing to do. We are committed to providing this life-saving care and will continue to support our trans and non-binary clients, staff and community in the face of rising hate and misinformation.
Here are a few resources that may help you to talk to family, friends, allies, and community to support trans and non-binary people and their rights.
All out in support of 2SLGBTQ+ communities- September 20, 2023
Gender Affirming Options for Gender Independent Children and Adolescents from Rainbow Health Ontario
Supporting Our Youth – A program of Sherbourne Health for 2SLGBTQ youth ages 29 and under
Gegi’s Tips for Creating a Classroom that Welcomes and Sustains Gender Diversity
Get the Facts: The Truth About Transition-Related Care for Transgender Youth
Scientific Misinformation and Gender Affirming Care: Tools for Providers on the Front Lines
- Bauer, G.R., Scheim, A.I., Pyne, J. et al. Intervenable factors associated with suicide risk in transgender persons: a respondent driven sampling study in Ontario, Canada. BMC Public Health 15, 525 (2015). Retrieved from: https://doi.org/10.1186/s12889-015-1867-2