Community Health Partnership ’s Post

Did you know we are celebrating Non-Binary Awareness Week from 8th July to 14th July? This week of celebration precedes International Non-Binary People's Day that is observed on 14th July. Non-Binary is a term related to gender identity and expression. The term refers to those whose gender identity or expression cannot be contained within the binary understanding of gender. Non-Binary people, are often discriminated against or disappeared from our mainstream narratives. This can have far-reaching effects and lead to inequity of access to education, healthcare, housing etc. It can also lead to severe psychological and/or emotional challenges. Let's change this narrative, and become allies to the wonderful non-binary people in our lives. Read on to learn what #allyship can look like when it comes to non-binary persons. #nonbinaryawarenessweek #nonbinary #lgbtqia #lgbtqindia #diversityandinclusion #deibmatters

Today is International Non-binary People's Day, a day that as a non-binary person myself, is very important to me. This won't be a long winded post, but what I will say is that there is no one right way to look or be non-binary. There is no correct pronoun to use, or clothing to wear, or haircut to get. Non-binary people are valid regardless of how masculine or feminine or androgynous they present. They're human. We're all just human. So be respectful, ask people what their pronouns are. Take the time today to learn about gender identites and how you can make a more inclusive workplace for your non-binary coworkers. Above all else, treat others as you yourself wish to be treated. Happy International Non-Binary People's Day! #InternationalNonBinarypeoplesday #nonbinary #lgbtqia+

Creating safer, more nurturing environments for youth requires a combination of awareness; a holistic, positive view of 2SLGBTQ+ identities, families, and caregivers; and active steps to address the negative influences of stigma and internalized oppression. Steps Toward Building Ongoing Awareness in Ourselves: 1. Self-Reflection: Be willing to explore one's own upbringing, learning about gender and sexuality, and the innate biases that may influence responses to 2SLGBTQ+ youth. 2. Recognize Human Variation: Understand the diversity in gender identity and sexual attraction. 3. Become Aware of Privilege: Acknowledge areas of privilege, which are often invisible to us. 4. Get Curious: Learn about the struggles, progress, and current areas of social change. 5. Listen More: Notice the diversity in individual stories, as well as the commonalities. 6. Bring Respect and Compassion: Show respect and compassion to yourself and others in this ongoing process of learning. 7. Recognize Your Identity as a Strength: View your identity as a source of strength. Active Steps: To truly cultivate a positive and affirming environment, attitudes must shift beyond tolerance and acceptance to embrace nurturing attitudes that fully value 2SLGBTQ+ identities. Take active steps to challenge heterosexism, cissexism, and biases stemming from privileged experiences. #Support2SLGBTQ #2SLGBTQYouth #InclusiveCommunities #EndStigma #BeAnAlly If you are looking for additional supports or want to learn more, please check out the link below for a list of national organizations: https://lnkd.in/gneU9Nuu

Vulnerable share here folks!🌈 This week has been a tricky one for me, seeing, hearing and reading the absoultely shame that the prime minister has shared in the public eye about the trans community is hurtful to every single trans and gender nonconforming person. Brianna Ghey was a young trans girl who deserved to have a happy, joyful and fulfilled life as her authentic self and this was taken away from her and then for someone of power to make a joke out of this is disgraceful. What this creates in our society is the right to be hateful, the right to shout transphobia remarks, the right the hurt someone who is trans - this needs to stop!! Trans people are not a debate to have, we are not a question, we are not causing harm or a crisis, we are not a ideology - we are people, people who deserve the same visibility, representation and opportunities as everyone else. I am a proud trans non binary queer person and I will continue to shout about why the work that I do is so bloody important because when we don't have the skills, knowledge or awareness we reduce the validation that all my trans people need to have. This picture was taken when I got my first binder, something that has helped me over the last 2 years to feel more at ease in my body. I am not an issue, I am someone who simply wants to be seen for being me unapologetically without fear of hate, discrimination or abuse. I champion you all to gain as much awareness and knowledge of why visibility and representation is virtual important for the trans community because without this visibility there is significant declining mental health and harm. To all my trans and gender nonconforming siblings, I see you and I am here with my voice loud and proud. We will not be erased, we will not be push to the curb and be told we are an issue🏳️⚧️💜 #beyondthebinary #virutal #queer #nonbinary #transgender #community #equality #awareness #visibility #lgbtqia #inclusion #representation #knowledge #education #culture #validation #unapologeticallyme #mentalhealth #love #personalstory

This year's International Day Against Homophobia, Transphobia, and Biphobia carries the theme: "No one left behind: Equality, freedom, and justice for all." While notable progress has been made in securing the rights of lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, intersex, and asexual individuals, significant challenges persist. Discrimination and stigma continue to perpetuate severe health disparities and other forms of inequality. Many countries enforce laws that criminalize consensual same-sex relationships, and in certain areas, LGBTQIA+ individuals face the death penalty due to their identity, which greatly increases their vulnerability to human rights abuses and limits their access to healthcare services. Moreover, numerous political leaders contribute to these issues through divisive policies and detrimental rhetoric. As a result, LGBTQIA+ people are more prone to experiencing poverty, violence, and various other types of exclusion. Yet, amidst these adversities, the global community's resolve strengthens. Each act of solidarity, every legal victory, and all instances of public support fuel the journey toward true equality. As awareness spreads and allies multiply, the future brightens with hope. Together, we continue to strive for a world where freedom, justice, and equality are unconditionally available to all, echoing the essence of this year’s theme, leaving no one behind. #thisispublichealth #lgbtqiaplus #LGBTQHealth #lgbtqrights

Yesterday, I had the privilege of engaging in a meaningful dialogue with a group of LGBTQ young individuals in Dar es Salaam. Our conversation shed light on the underlying factors that drive some members of this community towards harmful coping mechanisms such as excessive alcohol consumption, substance abuse, and sex work. The profound sense of distress, despair, and self-rejection that often stem from experiences of exclusion and prejudice significantly contribute to the multitude of challenges they encounter. It was eye-opening to witness how societal rejection and discrimination can push individuals towards these harmful coping mechanisms. According to statistics, LGBTQ youths are disproportionately affected by mental health issues, substance abuse, and homelessness due to the lack of support and acceptance in their communities. The relentless barrage of hate and discrimination they face on a daily basis takes a toll on their mental and emotional well-being, often leading to a sense of alienation and despair. The prevalence of physical and emotional violence against LGBTQ individuals exacerbates their struggles, leaving them feeling vulnerable and marginalized. The trauma they endure from these experiences can have long-lasting effects on their sense of self-worth and belonging, making it challenging for them to navigate a world that constantly invalidates their existence. We must work towards creating a more inclusive society that values and celebrates diversity, and provides support and resources for those who need it. #lgbtqia #inclusion #diversity #support #lgbtqcommunity

Today marks an important day, not just for the LGBTQIA+ community, but for humanity as a whole. May 17th is recognized as the International Day Against Homophobia, Transphobia, and Biphobia (IDAHOBIT) as on this day in 1990 the World Health Organisation (WHO) removed homosexuality from its list of mental disorders. Although we have made much progress, we face significant setbacks too. Currently, 62 UN member states criminalise consensual same-sex relations, either by law or in practice. At least 59 countries have restrictions on freedom of expression related to sexual and gender diversity issues, and in the past two years there has been an acceleration in the enacting and debating of such provisions. We have a long way to go. The theme of IDAHOBIT 2024 is a call for solidarity, and for everybody to unite in creating a world with social justice, where no one is left behind. There are many ways you can support the community, from raising awareness, advocating, education, and challenging discrimination in all forms. https://lnkd.in/grKhQBYV Equal needs to be equal. #Diversity #Inclusion #Equity #loveislove

🌟 𝗡𝗼𝗻𝗯𝗶𝗻𝗮𝗿𝘆 𝗔𝘄𝗮𝗿𝗲𝗻𝗲𝘀𝘀 𝗪𝗲𝗲𝗸 🌟 This week, we celebrate and recognize the diverse experiences and identities of nonbinary individuals. But what does it mean to be nonbinary? 𝗡𝗼𝗻𝗯𝗶𝗻𝗮𝗿𝘆 is a term used to describe people whose gender identity doesn’t fit within the traditional binary of male or female. Nonbinary individuals may identify as both genders, somewhere in between, or completely outside the binary. Every nonbinary person's experience and identity are unique! Let's embrace and support nonbinary identities by learning, listening, and advocating for inclusivity. Join us this week in celebrating the beauty of nonbinary identities and promoting awareness and understanding. 💛🤍💜🖤 #NonbinaryAwarenessWeek #CelebrateNonbinary #GenderDiversity #Inclusivity #SupportNonbinary

Today marks an important day, not just for the LGBTQIA+ community, but for humanity as a whole. May 17th is recognized as the International Day Against Homophobia, Transphobia, and Biphobia (IDAHOBIT) as on this day in 1990 the World Health Organisation (WHO) removed homosexuality from its list of mental disorders. Although we have made much progress, we face significant setbacks too. Currently, 62 UN member states criminalise consensual same-sex relations, either by law or in practice. At least 59 countries have restrictions on freedom of expression related to sexual and gender diversity issues, and in the past two years there has been an acceleration in the enacting and debating of such provisions. We have a long way to go. The theme of IDAHOBIT 2024 is a call for solidarity, and for everybody to unite in creating a world with social justice, where no one is left behind. There are many ways you can support the community, from raising awareness, advocating, education, and challenging discrimination in all forms. https://lnkd.in/grKhQBYV Equal needs to be equal. #Diversity #Inclusion #Equity #loveislove

Pride Month is a time to renew our commitment to standing up for 2SLGBTQ+ people who are silenced and targeted. Personally, I'm reminded of my own journey growing up gay in the Okanagan. While I recognize my privilege as a cis-gender, white gay man, it wasn’t easy. My path was often marked by isolation, misunderstanding and bullying - a reality that too many LGBTQ2S+ folks continue to face today resulting in deteriorating mental health and suicide. Living authentically in a world that frequently misunderstands or outright rejects your identity is harmful and requires immense courage to overcome. The discrimination I faced then is a reminder of the prejudice that persists today, especially towards our trans and non-binary siblings. These people, who bravely live their truth, are more than ever the most vulnerable and marginalized within our community. Despite the progress we've made, there are very real movements both locally and globally working to undermine the hard-won rights and visibility we’ve achieved and fought for. These regressive actions seek to silence our voices and erase our identities. Yet, it’s the strength and resilience of our community that has brought us to where we are today and will continue to propel us forward. This Pride Month, let us honor those who have fought tirelessly for our rights and recognize the battles still ahead. We must stand in solidarity, amplify the voices of the trans and non-binary community, and remain steadfast in our advocacy for equality. Together, we can ensure that every person, regardless of their gender identity or sexual orientation, can live openly and proudly in a world that embraces diversity. Remember, Pride IS political and most importantly: a movement. #PrideMonth #LoveIsLove #InclusiveCommunity #DiversityMatters #KelownaCentre