If you are in crisis, please call the Crisis Intervention Centre at 613-969-7400 ext. 12753, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

The 9-8-8 Suicide Crisis Helpline is also a 24/7 support service. Call or text 9-8-8.

For access to addictions and mental health support, connect to AccessMHA Regional Coordinated Access to make an online referral.

You are currently on the:

CMHA National

Visit our provincial websites

CMHA HPE honours Transgender Day of Remembrance 

At CMHA HPE, 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: 

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 

  1. Educate Yourself and Others: Learn about the unique challenges faced by gender-diverse individuals and share this knowledge. 
  1. Advocate for Inclusive Policies: Push for affirming and culturally safe mental health services. 
  1. Amplify Voices: Support organizations and initiatives led by 2SLGBTQI+ communities. 

Resources for Support 

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. 

SHARE THIS CONTENT
Skip to content