As a New Brunswick-based organization that provides care for all people, our team at Kindred Home Care has been disheartened by the controversy surrounding the Policy 713 amendments, which has led to a lot of debate and division not only in political spheres but online and in the streets, causing further division and exclusion in many of our communities.
Although we don’t provide services for youth, as a human support services provider, our team and clients are comprised of a variety of gender identities and sexual orientations. Our team recognizes the need for greater respect and psychological safety for all members of the 2SLGBTQI+ community, specifically transgender people. This is why we provide company-wide training on the importance of safer spaces for underrepresented and equity-deserving individuals. For years, Kindred has also participated in PRIDE events across New Brunswick to show our support.
This recent issue has spurred a great deal of discussion within our team. Our 2SLGBTQI+ team members and loved ones have also expressed concerns about their continued safety and acceptance in New Brunswick – in some cases, the debate over this issue has felt downright dehumanizing.
That’s why we feel it’s inherent in our values as a team and an organization to not only create a safe and inclusive environment for all of our team members, clients and community members but also brave spaces that encourage constructive dialogue, empathy and individual accountability. We want to be clear that we stand with the transgender community, and with the many individuals and organizations who have spoken out about the changes to Policy 713.
Despite this issue – or perhaps because of it – we hope others across the province will seize the opportunity during PRIDE activities in June and throughout the summer to celebrate the 2SLGBTQI+ community and visibly show support. We will do so by participating in PRIDE events in Saint John, Moncton and Fredericton. We’re also eager to learn more about what we can do as a team to facilitate brave spaces for all of our staff and clients – to recognize and appreciate our differences and reach mutual understanding. Through these and other efforts, we are committed to doing our part to make New Brunswick a braver place for all.
