The rise of anti-trans laws and the role of public health advocacy
People who identify as 2SLGBTQI+ experience higher rates of structural and social health inequities. “Parental rights” legislation that prevents students from using affirmed names and pronouns in school has resulted in policies at the institutional and community level that are harmful to trans and gender-expansive youth. The consequent impact on the health and well-being of these youth is significant, including increased risk of negative physical, mental and social health outcomes.
This commentary describes significant roles for public health to address the impact of these policy shifts and to advocate for the return of environments that promote the health of trans and gender-expansive youth. These important roles include working to establish trans and gender-expansive affirming social environments, embedding gender-affirming language into communications and service provision, and promoting strong support structures. Critical reflexivity and professional development around gender and sexual diversity is a crucial first step. Leadership through advocacy from within and outside of decision-making bodies is another critical role for public health to counter structural discrimination against trans and gender-expansive youth and improve health outcomes.
Use this resource to
- Facilitate discussion among colleagues about the impact of discrimination and anti-trans laws and policies on health outcomes for trans and gender-expansive youth
- Identify opportunities to shift current programs through affirming language use and service provision
- Recognize examples of anti-trans policies or other “rules,” and discuss strategies to address them
Alignment with NCCDH work
2SLGBTQI+ stigma and discrimination is a significant structural determinant of health. Homophobia and transphobia are on the rise in Canada, leading to negative health outcomes for people in the 2SLGBTQI+ community. Understanding and responding to these inequities and addressing the roots of 2SLGBTQI+ health inequities are important avenues for public health action.
Access NCCDH resources about 2SLGBTQI+ health equity:
Webinar: Promoting the rights and health of transgender people as a public health equity priority
Webinar: Gender identity, sexual diversity and health equity in public health
Gender identity, sexual diversity and health equity: A curated list
See other resources on health equity for the 2SLGBTQI+ community.
Reference
Khonina, M., & Salway, T. (2024). The rise of anti-trans laws and the role of public health advocacy. Canadian Journal of Public Health. Advance online publication. https://doi.org/10.17269/s41997-024-00942-1
Tags: 2SLGBTQI+ health, Stigma, discrimination, Academic Institution, Document, Commentary