Today – and every day – it’s important to highlight the accomplishments and experiences of trans and gender diverse people across the province. For cisgender allies, increasing awareness and knowledge can help make our communities safer overall. Sharing stories and thoughts from trans and gender diverse people in PHSA’s extended community is a great place to start.
For TDOV 2023, Trans Care BC is pleased to be showcasing these incredible team members:
"To me, being nonbinary is centred around my liberation. Liberation from traditional gender roles and gender expressions, and liberation to be exactly who I authentically am.
Being nonbinary gives me the freedom to choose what social and medical transition is right for me."
- avery, health navigator
"Non-binary and trans community has been the biggest resource for me.
My mind is constantly expanding to the possibilities of what non-binary means to me from what I learn from community."
- Chrissy, health navigator
"Being trans gives me the freedom to reject the ways of being that were once forced upon me and find ways of living and loving myself in a way that feels more true to who I am outside of the traditional confines of gender."
- Emory, health navigator
"After 20+ years of fearing repercussions if I opened up about my gender, the last 20+ years of self-acceptance, supportive loved ones, and watching community grow has been exquisite and so very, very healing."
- Gwen, provincial lead, Education
"Exploring gender in the context of my cultural background has felt challenging. Learning from my POC and Indigenous friends and family has helped me see the infinite ways that I can be authentic and confident in my skin."
- Hayf, acting provincial lead, Partnerships + Networks
"Friends, family, co-workers and allies, can listen and believe our stories and struggles. They can also be curious, ask respectful questions, and most importantly treat us as welcome, productive and valued members of society."
- Marc, health navigator
"To me, being trans is about challenging and living outside of the rigid gender roles and stereotypes enforced since birth.
My favorite thing about being trans is the gift of freedom, strength, and confidence to be my full self."
- Rae, nurse educator
By sharing these profiles, Trans Care BC and PHSA broadly hopes that people can increase their understanding and therefore, be more inclusive and offer more accessible services for trans and gender diverse people across British Columbia.
