June marks the beginning of Pride Season in communities across Ontario. While this time is often associated with celebration, it also calls us to reflect on the deeper roots of these gatherings. Pride is grounded in advocacy, activism and the collective effort to dismantle systemic barriers facing 2SLGBTQ+ communities. For health care and social service providers, this season invites a renewed commitment to barrier-free health access. It’s an opportunity to continue building your clinical and cultural competence and to stand firmly in your role as an ally.
New data from Statistics Canada reinforces the urgency of this work. The 2025 report on perceptions of gender-based violence and gender equality shows a concerning decline in support for gender diverse populations. Agreement that individuals should be free to express their gender however they choose dropped from 85 per cent in 2018 to 77 per cent in 2025 among women, and from 78 per cent to 70 per cent among men.
At Rainbow Health Ontario, this data confirms what we already know. Anti-trans rhetoric has become more visible. Misinformation has become a significant problem. Overall, support for 2SLGBTQ+ communities, particularly trans and non-binary individuals, is declining. This is a clear call to action.
Allyship is more important now than ever.
We encourage every provider to reflect on how they will show up for their queer and trans clients. This may mean participating in one of our many trainings, adopting more inclusive intake forms or challenging discriminatory comments when you hear them. It may mean ensuring your organization’s policies explicitly protect gender identity and expression. Deepening your commitment to 2SLGBTQ+ health equity is not a single gesture. It is an ongoing practice rooted in learning, humility and accountability.
Pride Season is a powerful reminder that celebration and advocacy are inseparable. As you engage with your clients, your teams and your communities this month, we invite you to carry forward the work of dismantling barriers and fostering affirming, equitable care.