Did you know that Canada was referred to as the most gay-friendly country in the world? Canada was ranked first in the Gay Travel Index chart in 2018, and among the five safest in Forbes magazine in 2019. This is supported by the fact that 85% of Canada’s general population had favoured social acceptance of homosexuality as revealed by a survey conducted in 2020 by Pew Research. And it comes as no surprise that the city of Toronto has been known for its acceptance towards all residents, regardless of their culture, gender and sexual orientation. Toronto is now known as the best LGBTQ-friendly place in North America. LGBTQ (Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer) are people as diverse as the Canadian population, but they often face unique challenges such as stigma and discrimination, and are targets of sexual and physical assault, harassment and hate crimes, just because they are identified as LGBTQ.
While public awareness and acceptance has greatly improved over the past years, there are still those that exhibit homophobic behaviours towards LGBTQ. Many of the individuals in the LGBTQ community continues to experience physical or sexual assault due to their identity, and were subjected to verbal threats or harassments as well. LGBTQ people also face increase risk of depression, suicide and substance use compared to heterosexual peers, especially the LGBTQ youth.
Fortunately, there are organizations in Toronto that caters to the evolving needs of the LGBTQ community. One of the organizations called the 519 is one of the nonprofit organizations that promote inclusion, understanding and respect. The 519 provides diverse programs and services specially designed to respond to the needs of individuals and the LGBTQ community. This includes the arts and culture, sports and recreation, counseling, community support, financial and housing services. They also run a community drop-in which offers a safe and welcoming space for all LGBTQ people of all ages who may be struggling to find help.
To learn more about 519 and to know how to get involved, visit their website at www.the519.org.
