March 31st is Transgender Day of Visibility
On this Transgender Day of Visibility, Quest Center for Integrative Health celebrates the resilience, strength, and contributions of transgender, non-binary, and gender non-conforming individuals in our Portland community and beyond. We recognize and honor the diverse experiences and identities within the LGBTQIA2S+ spectrum, and we affirm our unwavering commitment to providing equitable and affirming healthcare for all.
While we celebrate the increasing visibility of transgender individuals, we must also acknowledge the persistent and systemic discrimination that continues to impact their lives.
The current political and social climate presents significant challenges for transgender individuals, with discriminatory legislation and harmful rhetoric on the rise. Currently, the American Civil Liberties Union is tracking 527 bills targeting LGBTQIA2S+ rights. We stand in solidarity with those fighting for justice and equality.
As a healthcare provider, Quest Center is particularly concerned with the barriers that transgender, non-binary, and gender non-conforming people face when it comes to accessing quality, affirming healthcare.
We recognize that:
Healthcare disparities exist: Transgender individuals often encounter discrimination in healthcare settings, leading to denial of care, misgendering, and a lack of culturally competent services.
Access to affirming care is essential: Gender-affirming care, including mental health support, hormone therapy, and other medical interventions, is vital for the well-being of transgender individuals.
Discrimination impacts overall health: The stress and trauma caused by discrimination and social stigma contribute to higher rates of mental health conditions, substance use, and other health issues within the transgender community.
Housing vulnerability: Transgender individuals, in particular, face significant challenges in finding and sustaining stable, permanent housing, leading to increased risk of homelessness and instability.
Disproportionate HIV risk: Transgender women are disproportionately vulnerable to HIV infection, requiring targeted prevention and care strategies.*
Quest Center is dedicated to creating a safe and inclusive environment where all individuals, regardless of gender identity or expression, feel respected and empowered to access the healthcare they need. We pledge to:
Provide culturally competent and affirming healthcare services that address the unique needs of transgender, non-binary, and gender non-conforming individuals.
Educate our staff on best practices for serving the transgender community, including the use of correct pronouns and names, and an understanding of gender-affirming care.
Advocate for policies that promote healthcare equity for all LGBTQIA+ individuals.
Work collaboratively and nurture partnerships with organizations that also work to dismantle the systemic barriers that transgender individuals face in accessing quality care.
Create a welcoming and safe space for all members of the LGBTQIA2S+ community.
Address the specific housing and HIV-related health disparities that affect our transgender clients.
On this Transgender Day of Visibility, we affirm our commitment to seeing, valuing, and respecting the humanity and dignity of every transgender, non-binary, and gender non-conforming person. We are honored to serve and support you.
In solidarity,
Quest Center for Integrative Health