March 31 is Trans Day of Visibility

Today, as we mark International Transgender Day of Visibility, we honour and celebrate trans, non-binary, and gender-diverse people and their contributions to our communities and workplaces, including the many who contribute to our union. 

In the wake of the tragedy in Tumbler Ridge, anti-trans disinformation has amplified hateful beliefs around trans people, which can result in discrimination and attacks on a community that already faces disturbingly high levels of harassment and violence. We extend our solidarity to all those affected, and to all members who may be feeling the weight of this moment. You are not alone: HSA is with you. 

HSA’s Gender Diverse Committee

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HSA’s Gender Diverse Committee. Top row, left to right: Jules Adam, Kevin Taki, and Court Reynolds. Bottom row, left to right: Pamela Reid and M Letourneau

HSA’s Gender Diverse Committee exists to support, advocate for, and uplift all HSA members who identify as Two-Spirit, trans, and/or gender-diverse across our union. The committee is made up of members just like you:

• Jules Adam (they/them)
  • Music Therapist, qathet General Hospital
  • What I’m reading: Before Gender: Lost Stories from Trans History 1850-1950 by Eli Erlick
• Kevin Taki (they/them)
  • Recreation Therapist, Royal Jubilee Hospital
  • What I’m reading: オカマだけどOLやってます  (literal translation: I’m a transvestite but I work as an office lady) by Mineko Nomachi
• Court Reynolds (they/them)
  • Physiotherapist, St. Paul’s Hospital
  • What I’m reading: Lessons in Magic and Disaster by Charlie Jane Anders
• Pamela Reid (they/them)
  • Child Life Specialist, Royal Columbian Hospital
  • What I’m reading: Daughters of the Deer by Danielle Daniel 
• M Letourneau (they/them)
  • Occupational Therapist, Victoria General Hospital
  • What I’m reading: The Thirty Names of Night by Zeyn Joukhadar

The committee exists as a resource for our trans and gender diverse members. Whether you’re navigating your workplace, looking for community, or simply interested in learning more, you can contact @email. Please keep an eye out for emails on HSA’s Gender Diverse Member Caucus, which is an open space for gender diverse members to share issues and build solidarity. 

You may also find HSA’s Gender Diversity Resources on our website. 

Did you know?

In many worksites, you can have your pronouns added to your name tag? 

Some collective agreements include protections for accessing gender affirming care and leave? If you’re curious about whether you qualify, please reach out to @email. 

For allies: ways to show up

Building inclusive and respectful workplaces is everyone’s responsibility. If you’re looking to learn more or take action:

• Visit the We Are Allies Campaign for practical ways to support gender diverse colleagues
• Explore Trans Care BC’s Education Centre for training, guides, and learning resources for both the public and health professionals
• Practice using they/them pronouns for every person you interact with today. Use they/them pronouns in your documentation or to describe strangers around you. Try to notice when you assume somebody’s gender or pronouns
• Practice a 5-minute meditation in which you think about every trans or non-binary person you know personally or are aware of in media. Consider seeking out a movie, show, book, or song by a trans artist if you struggle with this practice.
• Add your name in support of Women for Trans Right: Not In Our Name open letter.