TORONTO – Steven Del Duca’s election promises are ramping up as he announces that members of the Ontario Liberal government will expand universal access to pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) medication to prevent HIV transmission, as well as reduce barriers to gender-affirming surgeries.
“In a province as diverse as ours, everyone should be empowered to love and live as their authentic selves,” said Ontario Liberal leader Del Duca. “Our plan will expand access to the critical health and social services 2SLGBTQ+ Ontarians rely on, including preventative medication, gender-affirming surgeries, supportive housing, and mental health supports.”
Today’s announcement affirms that an Ontario Liberal government will:
- Provide culturally competent and gender-affirming health, mental health and long-term care
- Fully cover medications that prevent and treat HIV, including PrEP and antiretroviral therapy
- Reduce wait times and barriers to gender-affirming surgeries
- Build 2,000 supportive homes for 2SLGBTQ+ youth
- Ensure 2SLGBTQ+ youth are welcomed and supported in schools
- Provide $20 million to 2SLGBTQ+ community centres, organizations and Pride celebrations
The Ontario Liberal says the pandemic has disproportionately impacted 2SLGBTQ+ people, and 2SLGBTQ+ youth – particularly trans youth – are more likely than their counterparts to experience bullying, harassment, and homelessness.
The Ontario Liberal plan will help address both new and long-standing disparities in access to services across the spectrum of care.