Supporting the LGBTQIA2S+ community

It’s 2022 and the world has taken steps forward to be more accepting of people regardless of their sexuality — but there is still a lot of work to do. 

As we mark the International Day Against Homophobia, Transphobia and Biphobia on May 17, it’s essential to sit and think about the difference we can all make in our everyday lives to denounce the violence and discrimination experienced by lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, intersex people and all other people with diverse sexual orientations, gender identities or expressions, and sex characteristics. 

It is crucial to understand how much hurtful actions like harassment, discrimination and acts of violence impact someone’s mental health.

A recent study for the Canadian Medical Health Association and Rainbow Health Ontario found that 20 per cent of those surveyed had experienced physical or sexual assault due to their identity and 34 per cent were the target of verbal threats or harassment.

The organization also says anyone who identifies themselves as trans people in Canada and the United States experience high levels of violence, harassment and discrimination when finding stable housing, employment, health, or essential social services. These are basic things that people take for granted every day and everyone should be able to do with ease in a country such as Canada.  

The CMHA says everyone can help by being more supportive, and that starts with understanding the hardships the LGBTQIA2S+ (Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Questioning, Intersex, Asexual and Two-Spirit) community faces. 

The CMHA says LGBTQIA2S+ face higher rates of:

  • Depression

  • Anxiety

  • Obsessive-Compulsive and Phobic Disorders

  • Suicidality

  • Self Harm

  • Substance Use

In situations where someone is coming out (sharing one’s LGBTQIA2S+ identity with others), undergoing a gender transition, facing internalized oppression, isolation, or alienation, the key is about being there with an open ear, heart, and mind. Having a supportive workplace is also vital in making sure people feel safe and supported.

International Day Against Homophobia, Transphobia and Biphobia is now celebrated in 130 countries, including 37 where same-sex acts are legal.  

This day was chosen as a worldwide celebration of sexual and gender diversities because this was the day when the World Health Organization decided to declassify homosexuality as a mental disorder. 

For more on the day and how to mark it, click here.

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