According to Statistics Canada, police-reported hate crimes targeting sexual orientation increased by 64% in 2021 alone. Transgender and gender-diverse individuals continue to face disproportionate levels of violence and discrimination across the country.
Source: Statistics CanadaRecent provincial debates in New Brunswick and Saskatchewan have centered around requiring parental consent for students to change names or pronouns in schools. Critics argue this undermines student safety and autonomy, while supporters frame it as parental rights.
A report from Egale Canada found that 2SLGBTQIA+ youth experience significantly higher rates of depression, anxiety, and suicidal ideation compared to their non-LGBTQ peers. These disparities are often linked to bullying, family rejection, and lack of affirming services.
Source: Egale CanadaMany trans and non-binary Canadians report barriers in accessing affirming healthcare, such as delays in hormone therapy or lack of informed providers. Organizations like Rainbow Health Ontario work to improve education and services in this sector.
Source: Rainbow Health Ontario