Posted on: June 7, 2023
To provide safe and inclusive care and services for people from Two Spirit, Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual,.jpg)
Transgender, Queer and Intersex (2SLGBTQI+ or Queer) communities, we need to understand the history, lived experiences and healthcare needs of the diverse range of people seeking our help.
Treating everyone the same is not the answer to dealing with differences. Treating everyone with respect and kindness is important, but “treating everyone the same" erases the existence and impact of discrimination and health disparities for certain groups of people. This reduces their sense of safety and belonging, and negatively impacts their care.
People in the Queer community often choose to remain invisible in order to remain safe. But there is a cost to invisibility – a sense of acceptance, belonging, inclusion and/or authenticity. People shouldn't have to make a choice between visibility and quality health care.
Being an ally requires learning, self-reflection, practice and courage. Making members of the Queer community feel safe requires more than symbolic rainbow flag or lanyard. To determine where you on your learning journey, ask yourself:
- Do I know about the history and current challenges facing Queer communities in Canada and around the world?
- Am I comfortable using the language and concepts important to Queer communities correctly?
- Am I aware of, and willing to challenge, my own biases and stereotypes about people in Queer communities?
- Do I understand and recognizing the impacts of heteronormativity and homo/transphobia?
- Do I recognize what discrimination and disrespect towards Queer and Questioning people looks like and am I prepared to say something if I see something?
- Am I committed to advocating for policies that support equity for people in Queer communities?
As a health and care organization, it is important to create safe and supportive environments to allow Queer and Questioning people to present comfortably and authentically. The following are some resources for you to enrich your learning journey and pathway to strong allyship. If you know of other good resources, please add in the chat.
- ISLAND HEALTHS 2SLGBTQI+ PAGE: has several resources and access to the 2SLTBTQI+ Learning Pathway. Upon completion of the Learning Pathway, you can receive an Island Health rainbow lanyard to show your clients and colleagues you are committed to walking the talk.
- PHSA's TRANS CARE BC: supports the delivery of equitable and accessible care, surgical planning, and peer and community support for trans people across BC.
- GLAAD/GLAAD CANADA: shared stories from the LGBTQ community, resources and events that accelerate acceptance.
- DEFINITIONS: this helpful video (It Takes Courage) and this glossary of terms (Human Rights Campaign) explain the definitions of Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer, Questioning, Intersex, Asexual, Ally, Pansexual, and Two Spirit to help make the world a more understanding and loving place.
- THE TREVOR PROJECT: resources, supports and stories to end suicide among lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer and questioning young people.
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Let's keep talking! Last week there were many thoughtful comments shared online and via TheWeekly@islandhealth.ca. Let's keep the conversation going.
- How do you plan to celebrate Pride this year?
- Is your team doing something special to mark the month and celebrate colleagues?
- Would you like to see the establishment of a Queer Employee Resource Group, operated by and for Island Health employees who identify as part of the Queer community – to help strengthen and develop our internal diversity and inclusion priorities, and operate as a safe space for Queer staff to connect and build community?
And don't forget about our Pride backgrounds for your Teams meetings. Happy Pride!