Programs that attempt to reduce the incidence of intimidation, property crimes and violence against individuals on the basis of their real or perceived race, religion, ethnicity, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or disability through a variety of educational interventions that focus on making people aware of the problem, encouraging people to actively condemn behaviours that promote hate crimes, and helping to develop cultural sensitivity in communities that are experiencing tension or where incidents have already occurred.

[ View Programs and Services (1) | Related Topics ]

Programs that provide a hotline, website or other mechanisms that the public can use to anonymously report information about the activities of individuals who have planned or committed acts of violence or intimidation against people on the basis of their real or perceived race, religion, ethnicity, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or disability. Hate crimes have an impact that lingers, and extends beyond the specific victim. They make members of minority communities fearful, angry and suspicious, and raise tensions that can divide and polarize neighbourhoods, towns and cities.

[ View Programs and Services (1) | Related Topics ]

Programs that are staffed by specialists who provide diagnostic services for people who identify as transgender and offer gender reassignment surgery for those who wish to pursue this option as part of their transition. The procedure usually involves extensive psychological, psychiatric and medical examinations to rule out secondary diagnoses and ensure that the individuals understand the risks of surgery; hormone therapy and surgery to create the appropriate anatomical structures for the new gender; and counselling and support services to ensure that the individuals adjust physically and emotionally to their new bodies.

[ View Programs and Services (1) | Related Topics ]

Programs that offer hormone replacement therapy for transgender individuals who are beginning the anatomical and psychological transition to another sex and gender. The therapy involves taking estrogen (for male-to-female transition) or testosterone (for female-to-male transition) before, during, and after the surgical transition. The purpose of hormone therapy is to change the physical appearance of the individual to look like the other sex and to feel comfortable. The feminizing effects of estrogen and the masculinizing effects of testosterone may appear after the first couple of doses, though it may be several years before a person is satisfactorily transitioned.

[ View Programs and Services (1) | Related Topics ]

Mutual support groups whose members identify as lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, two-spirit or as part of other communities such as those in the process of coming out or questioning their sexual orientation or gender identity. Groups may also be structured for parents, children, heterosexual partners or other relatives or significant others. The groups provide an opportunity for members to share their issues and concerns with others in a safe, supportive environment. Meeting formats may include in-person, telephone or Internet options.

[ View Programs and Services (4) | Related Topics ]

Programs that provide emotional support, information and guidance in a variety of settings for individuals whose gender identity is not in harmony with their birth assignment, and who may have a desire to change their biological sexual characteristics to conform physically with their perception of self and want to explore their options including hormone replacement therapy, gender transition and/or reassignment through surgery.

[ View Programs and Services (3) | Related Topics ]

Programs that provide immediate assistance for individuals who identify as lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer,  
two-spirit or as part of other communities such as those in the process of coming out or questioning their sexual orientation or gender identity, and/or their friends and families. Included may be short-term emotional support, resources and community referrals. The service is generally free and confidential and may offer peer support. Helpline staff are generally available via telephone, email, chat and/or text.

[ View Programs and Services (4) | Related Topics ]

Multipurpose centres that serve as a meeting place for people who identify as part of the gender and sexually expansive community that includes people who are lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer or two-spirit to grow together, celebrate diversity and increase public understanding. The centres may offer community events, educational programs, counselling, support groups, library resources, recreational programs and other services that support LGBTQ2+ individuals and organizations.

[ View Programs and Services (2) | Related Topics ]