Pride season is more than a celebration—it’s a call to action. It reminds us of the ongoing fight for visibility, inclusion and equity for 2SLGBTQIA+ communities across Canada.
At Praxus Health, improving the health of all Canadians is at the core of our mission. We know that meaningful change starts by listening, amplifying community voices and working together to build a more inclusive and equitable healthcare system.
From grassroots community groups to national institutions, we’ve partnered with 2SLGBTQIA+ organizations from coast to coast to ensure these voices are reflected in the work we do. By listening and learning, we’re better equipped to drive real, lasting change.
Through collaboration with community partners, such as Queering Cancer, the Centre for Sexuality and the Sexual and Gender Diversity in Cancer Care Program at Princess Margaret Cancer Centre, we’re proud to support efforts that reduce health disparities and improve care for 2SLGBTQIA+ individuals.
Together, we’re addressing systemic gaps in Canada’s healthcare system — including inequitable access to vaccines and preventive care — by co-creating solutions that are culturally responsive and community-driven.
Below, we highlight key projects we’ve been advancing with 2SLGBTQIA+ partners to build trust, close health gaps and move toward a more equitable future in healthcare.
TRANSforming: Gyne Cancer Care
Praxus Health, in partnership with Queering Cancer, UHN and the Sexual and Gender Diversity in Cancer Care team at Princess Margaret Cancer Centre, is advancing a national project to improve gynecological cancer care for transgender and gender-diverse (TGD) people in Canada.
Through community-led research focused on screening, treatment and survivorship, we’re working to better understand the unique needs, experiences and barriers faced by TGD individuals. Our goal is to ensure oncology care is more inclusive, informed and affirming.
A key part of this work is building a community of practice—bringing TGD voices and lived experience groups to the centre of the project. These individuals are helping guide the direction of the research and define what meaningful change in cancer care looks like from their perspective.
Currently in the insights gathering phase, this project will also support the development of resources for TGD gynecological cancer care.
HPV Immunization Awareness in 2SLGBTQIA+ Communities in Alberta
In partnership with Alberta Health Services (AHS), Praxus Health is working with transgender and non-binary individuals to increase awareness, confidence and access to the HPV vaccine in Alberta. This project reflects our commitment to community-led solutions.
As part of this project, Praxus Health is co-developing education and outreach materials in collaboration with 2SLGBTQIA+ individuals, ensuring content reflects their lived experiences and needs. In parallel, we’re working with healthcare providers to better understand the challenges they face and provide tools to support more inclusive, affirming conversations about the HPV vaccine.
“This collaborative approach builds a lot of trust, which is paramount in addressing health disparities facing 2SLGBTQIA+ folks” says Kim Meeking, Co-lead of Queering Cancer.
By bridging community perspectives with provider insights, we’re helping to remove barriers and create a more equitable approach to HPV prevention across the province.
Looking ahead
There is no one-size-fits-all solution to closing healthcare gaps. Meaningful progress requires a multifaceted approach that reflects people’s lived experiences. At Praxus Health, this means combining actionable insights, advocacy, education and practice change, health communication and community partnerships to support more inclusive, responsive care.
By working in partnership with 2SLGBTQIA+ communities, we’re helping to identify what real change looks like—and how to make it happen.
Stay tuned as we continue to move these efforts forward and work toward a more equitable healthcare system for all. Learn more about our community partnerships approach.
