At CMHA Ontario, we recognize that the violence faced by 2 Spirit, trans, and non-binary individuals is not a thing of the past—it is an urgent and ongoing crisis. On Transgender Day of Remembrance (TDOR), we mourn those whose lives were lost to anti-trans violence while acknowledging the persistent systemic barriers and discrimination these communities endure today.
The Reality of Anti-Trans Violence
The statistics are staggering. According to the 2SLGBTQI+ Action Plan Survey, 39% of 2SLGBTQI+ Canadians have experienced violence due to discrimination in the past five years. Alarmingly, this includes:
- 63% of Two-Spirit individuals and 54% of trans women reporting experiences of physical and sexual violence.
- 67% of trans women and 55% of trans men considering personal safety risks when deciding how to present in public.
- 91% of victims do not report incidents to the police due to mistrust and fear of inaction.
In Ontario, 40% of 2SLGBTQI+ individuals report experiencing violence or discrimination related to their identities.
Mental Health Impacts
Two-spirit, trans, and gender-diverse individuals face higher rates of mental health challenges, with 30% reporting fair or poor mental health, compared to fewer than 10% of non-2SLGBTQI+ individuals. Unfortunately, only 17% of 2SLGBTQI+ Ontarians have access to specialized mental health services.
Barriers like discrimination in healthcare settings, a lack of culturally safe and affirming spaces, and social stigma exacerbate these challenges. For example, 21% of trans individuals in Ontario avoid emergency care during crises due to fear of mistreatment.
A Community of Resilience
Despite these barriers, the 2 Spirit, trans, and non-binary communities continue to demonstrate resilience, advocacy, and strength. TDOR is not only a day of mourning but also a call to action for allies to stand in solidarity and push for systemic change.
How You Can Support
- Educate Yourself and Others: Learn about the unique challenges faced by gender-diverse individuals and share this knowledge.
- Advocate for Inclusive Policies: Push for affirming and culturally safe mental health services.
- Amplify Voices: Support organizations and initiatives led by 2SLGBTQI+ communities.
Resources for Support
- LGBT Youthline: Peer-led support for 2SLGBTQI+ youth across Ontario.
- The Trevor Project: Crisis support for 2SLGBTQI+ youth.
- Rainbow Health Ontario: Training and resources for affirming healthcare.
- Trans Wellness Ontario: Mental wellness support for 2SLGBTQI+ individuals.
Terminology Matters
Using affirming names and pronouns is a simple but powerful way to show respect and support. It’s about acknowledging identity and challenging harmful norms.
Honouring Lives, Building Futures
This TDOR, let’s commit to creating a safer, more inclusive world for 2 Spirit, trans, and gender-diverse individuals. Together, we can confront transphobia, amplify marginalized voices, and ensure everyone can live free from fear and violence.