Toronto/IBNS: The City of Toronto Tuesday presented its first coordinated initiative for gender-diverse youth in Toronto Access Plan for Two-Spirit, Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender and Queer Advisory Committee.

Aiming to reduce barriers to City services and programs for gender-diverse youth aged 12 to 29, the launch of the Access Plan for Two-Spirit, Trans and Non-Binary Youth  marks a milestone for the City, demonstrating its commitment to safety and access for Two-Spirit, Trans and Non-Binary (2SNTB) Torontonians.

As revealed by the research from Trans PULSE Canada and other health surveys, trans and non-binary youth experience disparities across every major health and social indicator compared, including a greater risk of suicide.

Experiencing violence and rejection at home, a number of these gender-diverse youth avoid a range of community spaces for fear of harassment or harm.

56 commitments will be implemented between 2024 and 2027 across six areas including housing and employment, supporting wellbeing, community safety interventions and gender-inclusive improvements.

Included in the priority actions are enhancements to employment supports, training for City staff, gender-inclusive washroom and change room facilities.

Organizations serving 2STNB youth will be provided with an access to housing development opportunities.

“This plan shows the power of what can happen when we work together…one way we continue to make Toronto a place where everyone belongs,” Toronto Mayor Olivia Chow said."

"The Two-Spirit, Trans and Non-Binary (2STNB) Youth Action Plan is a groundbreaking initiative…gender diverse community in our city is only growing…than older populations…This new initiative will lead to long-lasting changes…across various intersections and I am proud to see the work advanced,”  Councillor Chris Moise (Toronto Centre), Chair of the Two-Spirit, Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender and Queer Advisory Committee said.

(Reporting by Asha Bajaj)