Gender and Health Promotion Studies Unit

Millions of people in Canada live with chronic health conditions, and finding better ways to prevent, treat and enhance their quality of life is important.

That’s why the Canadian Institutes of Health Research supports five pan-Canadian health research networks that target some of Canada’s most challenging chronic illnesses as well as a research network focused on transforming primary care.

As a part of Canada’s Strategy for Patient-Oriented Research (SPOR), these research networks connect patients, caregivers and their families, researchers, health professionals, policymakers, across the country so that they can work together and play a key part in improving health outcomes for so many in Canada.

Learn more about these research networks and their incredible work: https://cihr-irsc.gc.ca/e/45854.html

As of today, it is now officially ILLEGAL to try to change someone’s s*xual orientation or gender identity, who they love, and how they express themselves. Across Canada conversion “therapy” is now considered what it has always been - CRIMINAL.

This was only possible because survivors have told their stories and advocates have never given up. It’s been a long time coming.

I am so appreciative of the people of faith and faith leaders who have spoken out and strongly condemned conversion “therapy” as harmful, deadly, and non-Biblical. And those who have sent letters, started petitions, spoken at your city council, and so many other ways you’ve advocated - it all mattered. Not only in changing legislation but in letting LGBTQ2S folks know they are sacred, affirmed, and not alone!

The work is not done, and crimes will have to be reported and prosecuted. But now, this is possible in a whole new way across the country!

Are you interested in learning more about s*x- and gender-based analysis (SGBA) in public health? If so, check out our forthcoming book on the application of SGBA in public issues, ranging from pandemics to s*xual health, to alcohol use, among other topics of importance to public health in the Canadian and global contexts.

S*x- and Gender-Based Analysis in Public Health
Editors: Gahagan, Jacqueline, Bryson, Mary K. (Eds.)