As we conclude our Inclusive Donor Awareness Campaign, we want to reflect on the incredible strides we’ve made—together. Our goal was simple but powerful: to raise awareness about Canadian Blood Services’ donor eligibility changes and empower more 2SLGBTQIA+ individuals to give blood and plasma safely and confidently.
The Impact: Community Stories That Fuel Change
Every action, story, and share has contributed to this campaign’s success. Community members have shared stories of how these changes have given them new opportunities to give back.
“I used to think donation wasn’t an option for me. I’m so proud to know the system is finally becoming more inclusive.”
– Des (they/them), Community Member
This type of community feedback is a testament to the power of education and outreach
A Call to Healthcare Leaders Across Canada: Step Up, Lead, Educate
Our campaign also reached rural and underrepresented areas, where community education and health literacy are critical. We’re calling on healthcare leaders across Canada to:
- Continue public education on Canadian Blood Services’ eligibility policies
- Encourage patients to return to or begin blood/plasma donation programs
- Support long-term, equitable healthcare practices that include the 2SLGBTQIA+ community.
Thank You: To Our Partners and Communities
We couldn’t have done this alone. Our heartfelt thanks go out to:
- Our community partners who amplified our message
- Healthcare leaders who helped with outreach and advocacy
- The incredible communities and Chapter Leads who drove engagement across the country.
Together, we’ve created meaningful change—and it doesn’t stop here.
“As we conclude our Inclusive Donor Awareness Campaign, I want to extend my deepest gratitude to all who made this project possible. To our community members, thank you for your engagement, stories, and unwavering support. To our partners: your dedication amplified our mission. A heartfelt thank you to my incredible Project Co-Lead, Vash Ebbadi-Cook, for your leadership and vision throughout every phase of this journey. And finally, my deepest thanks to the Wisdom2Action and Canadian Blood Services teams for your collaboration, guidance, and support in helping us drive real change. Together, we’ve created a foundation for ongoing inclusivity and advocacy. Let’s continue to build on this momentum for a more equitable future.”
– Chris Kennedy (he/him), pflag Canada’s Inclusive Donor Awareness Campaign Project Co-Lead.
What’s Next for pflag Canada?
Moving forward, pflag Canada is committed to expanding our work in:
- Supporting Canadian Blood Services and 2SLGBTQIA+ donor advocacy
- Continue supporting 2SLGBTQIA+ families, friends, allies and loved ones across Canada
- Developing more educational resources for communities
- Provide more resources and outreach to rural and underrepresented areas
- Foster a more inclusive, equitable Canada for all.
Want to get involved? There are many ways to stay connected and support our mission. Join us on our next advocacy journey by signing up to volunteer as a Chapter Lead or participate in future initiatives.
Stay connected here: https://pflagcanada.ca/open-positions/