June is Pride month. Pride is both a celebration of the diverse sexualities, genders and gender expressions of individuals that make up our communities, and a movement to increase visibility and awareness of the inequities that impact 2SLGBTQIA+ individuals. The South East Health Unit (SEHU) has an important role to play in advocating for health equity.
Gender identity and sexual orientation are determinants of health that can have a significant impact on the health outcomes of individuals and communities as a whole. Factors that can contribute to health inequities include discrimination and stigmatization, which can be made worse when other determinants of health (such as race/racism, income or social status) intersect with gender identity, gender expression or sexual orientation.
Stigma and discrimination can limit people’s access to health care, education, jobs, housing, and social connections, affecting overall health and wellbeing. These challenges can be lessened through social support, understanding, and allyship. Allyship is a process of building trusting relationships through learning, listening, and supporting the 2SLGBTQIA+ community.
At the public health unit, we provide inclusive services to gender diverse new parents, support individuals of all sexual orientations in our clinics, inspect businesses owned and operated by gay and lesbian community members, support queer and questioning youth in schools, and so much more. We have been making efforts to improve inclusivity of spaces and services by encouraging staff development on topics related to 2SLGBTQIA+ areas of concern, and improving our visual representation of inclusivity in an effort to reduce stigma.
“As an agency committed to helping our communities to be as healthy as they can be, it is important for the South East Health Unit to be leaders in voicing our support for the 2SLGBTQIA+ community,” says Dr. Piotr Oglaza, Medical Officer of Health and CEO for SEHU.
“Discrimination and stigmatization are damaging factors for both mental and physical health, and lead to harmful outcomes for individuals who face these realities. South East Health Unit staff strive to be supportive, inclusive and welcoming to all individuals who access our services.”
Public Health staff will participate in several Pride activities happening across our region to further demonstrate support, and will share information about events happening in our communities via our social media channels.
Learn more about sexual orientation, and gender identity and expression as they relate to health, visit: 2SLGBTQIA+ – Leeds, Grenville and Lanark District Health Unit.
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