LGBTQ2S+ engagement informs action plan

Results from latest LGBTQ2S+ engagement have been released, representing the final stage of a public engagement designed to inform the development of an action plan to increase inclusiveness for lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, Two-Spirit, plus (LGBTQ2S+) Yukoners in government legislation, policies, programs and services.

Throughout the public engagement, Yukoners made it clear that banning conversion therapy is a top priority. The Government of Yukon does not support conversion therapy and has committed to developing legislation to ban conversion therapy by the spring of 2020.

A total of 233 responses were received through an online public survey, which polled respondents about both the importance and personal impact of broad themes, including health care, education, culture and community, and public services.

The survey results highlight key priorities, including the importance of education and training for educators, health care professionals, and public service employees in LGBTQ2S+ cultural competencies, as well as the need for increased funding for community groups, initiatives, and an LGBTQ2S+ resource and community centre.

Online survey results will be used to set priorities for an action plan to improve government services for LGBTQ2S+ Yukoners and allies. This action plan, which is expected to be completed in the next six months, will be drafted with guidance and input from local LGBTQ2S+ Yukoners and allies.

LGBTQ2S+ Yukoners and their allies have sent a clear message that we need to continue taking action to improve inclusion and gender equality in the territory. As we develop an action plan we will keep working closely with our LGBTQ2S+ partners to ensure our legislation, policies and programs reflect the feedback and priorities we heard during the engagement.

Minister responsible for the Women’s Directorate Jeanie Dendys

Quick facts 
  • The survey results show a strong desire to ban conversion therapy in Yukon, with 75 per cent of all respondents and 93 per cent of LGBTQ2S+ respondents indicating legislation to ban conversion therapy in Yukon is extremely or very important.

  • The 2018–19 engagement was led by QMUNITY, a BC non-profit organization that works to improve the lives of LGBTQ2S+ people and included local facilitators and note takers.

  • During the LGBTQ2S+ engagement, 12 focus groups, three public community dialogues and several one-on-one interviews were held in Whitehorse, Watson Lake, Dawson City and Haines Junction.

  • October is LGBT History Month.

Media contact 

Matthew Cameron
Cabinet Communications
867-393-7136
matthew.cameron@gov.yk.ca

Breagha Fraser
Communications, Women’s Directorate
867-667-8675
breagha.fraser@gov.yk.ca

News release #: 
19-221