2SLGBTQI+

Understanding gender and sexuality

Human sexuality is diverse, and all sexual orientations and gender identities are normal. Understanding your sexuality and gender can be difficult. Aside from personal challenges, there can be pressure to act and feel a certain way. As you are learning more about your gender identity and sexual orientation (or the gender identity or sexual orientation of a family member or friend) it’s normal to feel confused, lost or alone. Remember — you are not alone. Reaching out to people who care about you and understand what you are going through can help.

Our commitment

KFL&A Public Health is working to offer 2SLGBTQI+ public health supports and services that are inclusive, affirming, and welcoming. We recognize that 2SLGBTQI+ folks are members of our community, and we and are working to improve inclusive service provision across the organization. All our programs have a role to play in celebrating Pride and supporting the health and well-being of 2SLGBTQI+ community members. If you, or someone in your life, identifies as 2SLGBTQI+, resources are available to encourage safe and supportive home and learning environments. Studies have shown that 2SLGBTQI+ people who have a strong support system have better overall health and mental health.

2SLGBTQI+ supports and resources

Local groups

• FUSE Youth Group - Kingston’s official 2SLGBTQI+ youth group. FUSE exists to create a safe and fun space for all youth 12-18 years old in Kingston who identify with 2SLGBTQI+ or who are allies. 
• Sexual Health Resource Center (SHRC) at Queen’s University - The SHRC is a non-profit resource that prides itself on being an inclusive, non judgmental and confidential resource for sex and sexuality in Kingston. They provide learning materials, pamphlets and as well as a variety of sexual health and pleasure products. They also serve as a confidential resource for those in need of immediate support
• Trans Family Kingston - A diverse group of transgender people, family members, friends and allies in the Kingston region who gather at least once a month to share stories and experiences. They provide peer support and assist each other in navigating the various barriers faced by trans people and by their supporters.

Information Lines

LGBT Youth Line - Toll free and anonymous. You can chat one-on-one with youth volunteers who specialize in 2SLGBTQI+ issues. Call 1-800-268-9688. Text: 647-694-4275
Trans Lifeline - Toll free and anonymous. Provides emotional and financial support for trans people in crisis. The hotline is run by peers who are trans or non-binary. Call 1-877-330-6366.

Websites and Online Resources

• Sex and U - Website containing information on sexual orientation, gender identity, coming out and awareness and respect.
• Sexfluent.ca - Educational content that provides youth with the power of choice, using a peer-driven approach that has a sense of encouragement and cheekiness.
• Rainbow Health Ontario -  Rainbow Health Ontario creates opportunities for the healthcare system to better serve 2SLGBTQI+ communities by offering training for health-care providers across the province to feel more clinically and culturally competent in caring for their 2SLGBTQI+ service users.
• Parents, Friends of Lesbians and Gays (PFLAG) - PFLAG is a resource for 2SLGBTQI+ people and their families.

Clinics supporting transgender individuals

Clinics in Ontario that provide information, advice and treatment related to trans care, including general health and wellness services, hormone therapy, and surgery. Please note some clinics require a referral.

• Sick Kids – Transgender Youth Clinic
• Kingston Community Health Centre Transgender Health Program
• CHEO’s Gender Diversity Clinic
• Foria – Experts in Virtual Gender-Affirming Care

Resources for families and friends

Supporting a Loved One Who Identifies As 2SLGBTQI+

The best thing that families and friends can do is offer support. This supports development of self-worth and self-esteem. Learning about sexual orientation and gender identity is an important first step.

Family and Caregiver Supports

• Trans Lifeline - Toll free and anonymous. Provide a family and friends support hotline that families, friends, partners and professionals can call to get support/resources for trans people. Call 1-877-330-6366.
• Egale - Information about supporting your gender diverse child.
• Prevnet - Information about bullying in the 2SLGBTQI+ youth population and how parents can help.