This year most, if not all, pride celebrations were cancelled due to COVID-19.
These celebrations are an opportunity for members of the LGBTQ+ community to be out without fear.
Stacey Love-Jolicouer is an education and support worker at the Canadian Mental Health Association Halton Region Branch.
She explains:
The Canadian Mental Health Association – Halton Region Branch has made sure that this month has been acknowledged by flying both the pride and transgender flags.
Love-Jolicouer explains how else they have acknowledged the month.
In June, there were a number of deaths in black transgender women in the United States that were brought to light on social media.
Love-Jolicouer says their major support agency, Trans Lifeline, saw an increase in calls in both Canada and the United States.
This phone line offers the trans community the opportunity to directly speak to a support worker or trans individual.
There is a great deal of bullying that takes place in schools and the workplace against members of the community. Love-Jolicouer gives us tips on how to be a better, more mindful ally.
Many in the LGBTQ+ community handle their struggles with self-isolation which causes depression and suicidality.
She encourages members of the community to not wait for their mental health to become an issue and that they are not alone in their experiences.
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