Spirit Day is celebrated annually on the third Thursday of October. We encourage all staff, professional staff, learners and volunteers to wear purple on Thursday, October 16 to show their solidarity with 2SLGBTQQIA+ youth, and to take a stand against bullying and harassment of 2SLGBTQQIA+ people.
If you have any questions or need more information, please contact Rae-Anne Robinson, Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion Coordinator at: Rae-Anne.Robinson@tbh.net
National Coming Out Day is observed annually on October 11. It is a day to celebrate authenticity, acknowledge the courage of 2SLGBTQQIA+ individuals, and reaffirm our commitment to creating safe, inclusive spaces for all.
What is does it mean to “Come Out”?
“Coming out” refers to the process of recognizing, accepting, and sharing one’s gender identity and/or sexual orientation. This journey is deeply personal and often begins with self-acknowledgment, followed by the decision to share that identity with others if it feels safe and comfortable to do so. Because coming out can involve both risks and rewards, each 2SLGBTQQIA+ person decides for themselves if, when, and with whom to share their identity.
Why is this important to health care?
Coming out is not a one-time event — it is an ongoing process. As 2SLGBTQQIA+ individuals navigate different stages of life and meet new people, they may continually face the decision of whether or not to disclose their identity, including to health care providers.
Unfortunately, experiences of stigma, discrimination, and negative attitudes within the health care system can make some 2SLGBTQQIA+ people hesitant to seek care. This can lead to delayed treatment or avoidance of health care services altogether, contributing to inequitable health outcomes.
How can we be allies to 2SLGBTQQIA+ patients?
With an estimated 1.3 million 2SLGBTQQIA+ people living in Canada, it is essential to ensure that health care spaces are inclusive, welcoming, and gender-affirming. By fostering an environment of respect and understanding, health care providers can help all patients feel safe, seen, and supported.
To learn more about National Coming Out Day, please go to Fenway Health: https://fenwayhealth.org/lgbtqia-history-month-national-coming-out-day-2024/
You can learn more about inclusive health care for 2SLGBTQQIA+ people on the Canadian Medical Association website at: https://www.cma.ca/healthcare-for-real/what-does-2slgbtqia-inclusive-care-mean-canada
If you have any questions or feedback, please contact Rae-Anne Robinson, Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion Coordinator at: Rae-Anne.Robinson@tbh.net
Join us on Thursday, October 9, from 6:30 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. in Auditorium A/B (3rd Level) for an engaging Trivia Night in support of Mental Illness Awareness Week (October 6-10).
Register now by scanning the QR code below:
Click here for details on other events and activities taking place during Mental Illness Awareness Week.
Are you and your family ready to face an emergency such as a blizzard, wildfire, or power outage? Do you have an emergency plan and an emergency kit to be self-sufficient for at least 3 days following a disaster?
Be ready, not reactive.
If you’re unsure how to answer those questions, we’re here to help! The Emergency Preparedness department is collaborating with our local Canadian Red Cross to promote personal preparedness to our Hospital workers and community members during Fire Prevention Week (October 5 to 11).
“By failing to prepare, you are preparing to fail,” Benjamin Franklin
The seasonal influenza vaccine clinic will be available to staff, physicians and volunteers starting October 6.
| Date | Time | Location |
|---|---|---|
| October 6 | 10 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. | Level 2 beside the Grand Staircase |
| October 7 | 10 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. | Level 2 beside the Grand Staircase |
| October 8 | 10 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. | Level 2 beside the Grand Staircase |
Please notify Occupational Health & Safety if you have received your flu shot from your doctor or at another facility. Please email the immunization documentation proof to TBRHSC.OccupationalHealthandSafety@tbh.net to ensure we update your chart.
LET’S PROTECT OURSELVES AND OUR PATIENTS!
Remember: Influenza immunization is recommended for all health care workers.
Read the Frequently Asked Questions below for more information on the influenza vaccine.
Staff that obtain their flu shot will be entered to win a six-month free parking pass (two passes are being raffled off).
Those staff that obtain both the flu AND COVID-19 vaccine, have a chance to win a one-year free parking pass.
