Nova Scotia has released its first 2SLGBTQIA+ Action Plan, a strategy aimed at advancing equity and improving access to services for gender and sexual minority communities across the province.
The plan was developed under the Dismantling Racism and Hate Act and draws on input from more than 600 community members who participated in surveys, virtual meetings and consultations.
“This plan reflects what we heard directly from 2SLGBTQIA+ Nova Scotians – their challenges, their priorities and their hopes,” said Scott Armstrong, attorney general and justice minister responsible for the Office of Equity and Anti-Racism. “We are listening, and we are taking action to help ensure every person in this province can feel safe, welcomed and supported.”
Plan development and scope
The action plan identifies changes to provincial programs and policies intended to support the inclusion of 2SLGBTQIA+ people at every stage of life. It also outlines steps to strengthen partnerships with community organizations.
The Dismantling Racism and Hate Act was passed in 2022 as the first legislation of its kind in Canada to include specific commitments to equity and anti-racism while acknowledging the experiences of 2SLGBTQIA+ people and people with disabilities.
Community response
Rhiannon Makohoniuk, co-executive director of the Rainbow Refugee Association of Nova Scotia, said the plan addresses real concerns. “This 2SLGBTQIA+ Action Plan listens to the lived experiences of queer and trans people in Nova Scotia and provides honest and tangible actions to better support them,” Makohoniuk said. “We look forward to seeing this plan grow through implementation, reporting and engagement.”
The province said the plan represents a coordinated approach to building safer and more inclusive communities.
