LGBTQ2+ people in Saskatoon are finding new ways to connect with community during the COVID-19 pandemic.
COVID-19 has exacerbated existing socioeconomic and health care inequities for these populations, heightening the need to provide services and supports.
“We already know that the 2SLGBTQ population experiences disproportionately higher rates of violence in all sectors,” said Jess Fisher, OUTSaskatoon’s gender based violence education coordinator. “With the happening of COVID, it increases health and economic risks, it increases mental health issues.”
Social isolation can have detrimental mental health effects for gender and sexually diverse people stuck at home in situations that may not be affirming for them, Fisher said.
That’s especially true for older adults and youth, for whom community support can be vital.
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