June is Pride Month, and Scarborough Health Network (SHN) is recognizing efforts supporting our 2SLGBTQ+ community (Two-Spirit, Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer and/or Questioning, plus other affirmative ways in which people choose to self-identify), internally and outside our walls.

SHN kicked off this important recognition a little early on May 17, when David Belous, Chief, Partnerships and Advocacy at SHN and executive sponsor of Scarborough Health Network’s (SHN) Pride Community of Inclusion, and James Schembri, Director, Scarborough Ontario Health Team (SOHT), together hosted a virtual “fireside chat” highlighting the importance of dynamic discussions to create inclusive and progressive spaces at SHN, where everyone is welcomed to bring their authentic selves to work, every day.

“Our inclusive culture starts internally—our Pride Community of Inclusion is for staff, medical staff, and volunteers, who identify as 2SLGBTQ+, along with allies, to be a place of belonging and promote safe and equitable healthcare for this community,” said David.

“This culture extends beyond our workforce to our patients and the Scarborough community as we live out our commitment to exceptional quality healthcare for everyone who accesses our services.”

Marching towards accessible healthcare

Now into June, SHN and the SOHT are excited to once again march in the 2023 Pride Parade, alongside Toronto’s seven other Ontario Health Teams! The group will host an information booth in the Church/Wellesley corridor throughout Pride Weekend (June 23-25) to support local communities in accessing 2SLGBTQ+ services across the city. Anyone attending Pride celebrations are invited to come say hello and learn about these services.

2SLGBTQ+ services available in Scarborough

SHN is committed to compassionate, gender-affirming care across our hospitals and community-based satellite sites. Some of our partners who share our dedication to inclusive care include:

  • Scarborough Centre for Healthy Communities
  • Services provided: Primary healthcare, gender-affirming care, pre-exposure prohylaxis against HIV, anonymous HIV testing, Sexual Assault and Domestic Violence Care Centre
  • Client intake: 416-847-4137
  • Toby’s Place
  • Free weekly drop-in program for 2SLGBTQIA+ youth, folks questioning their gender and/or sexuality and friends and allies, 29 years old and under
  • When: Drop-in Mondays from 3:30-7 p.m.
  • Where: 33 East Rd., Scarborough
  • What: Dinner, activities/workshops and discussions; TTC fare is provided

More resources for patients, providers, and community members are available at: https://www.rainbowhealthontario.ca/.

Wishing you a very Happy Pride from SHN and the SOHT!