In Ontario, trans women are 10 times more likely to report having been diagnosed with HIV than the general population. Research suggests that when trans women living with HIV are given the opportunity to engage in HIV care, they successfully adhere to treatment plans. Unfortunately, trans and non-binary communities in Canada as well as trans immigrants continue to experience unique forms of discrimination that impact their ability to safely access care.
“One of the main reasons why people don’t seek testing is because of the stigma and the fear of judgment from service providers,” explains Yasmeen Persad, Coordinator, Trans Programs (TPOC) at The 519. “Finding ways to reduce these barriers for folks is something that we’re working hard to do.”
An Ontario-based study revealed that 46 per cent of surveyed transgender individuals had never undergone HIV testing. A lack of testing can lead to undiagnosed cases, increased transmission rates and ultimately, poorer health outcomes — underscoring the need for targeted interventions and enhanced healthcare accessibility.
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Fortunately, The 519 and HQ Toronto are helping to bridge this gap. In time for International Transgender Day of Visibility (March 31), the two local organizations are launching a pilot program offering safe, welcoming spaces where racialized trans individuals can access HIV and gender-affirming sexual health services. The project leverages support from Gilead Sciences Canada and aims to connect with 2 Spirit, trans and non-binary community members to improve HIV testing, including for first time testers and reengaging individuals who have halted care.
“Our programs really focus on the unique needs that other community spaces can’t always offer,” explains Delphinium Araya, Project Coordinator, 2Spirit, Trans and Non-Binary Social Health Programs at HQ Toronto. “We recognize that providing both mental and social health programs are essential in seeing our community live longer lives.”
A number of partners are also contributing resources, skills, and community-specific knowledge and expertise to the program, which aims to reach diverse trans communities with the collective goal of enhancing holistic health and wellbeing.
“As part of our commitment to improving health equity, we are proud to support these incredible community organizations who play vital roles in improving health outcomes for the trans community,” says Christophe Griolet, Vice-President and General Manager at Gilead Sciences Canada.
The project will provide safe-space access to necessary healthcare services, engage diverse support leaders from different backgrounds, and foster inclusivity to empower clients to lead healthy lives in a low-barrier environment.
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“People need to see beyond the surface and view trans people as not just numbers and statistics, but human beings” says Persad. “These are family members, friends, neighbours, and coworkers. When you can make that shift to humanize trans people, you’ve really gone beyond the bias.”
This story was supplied by Gilead Sciences Inc.
DISCLAIMER: This content was supplied by the advertiser.
