Current Projects

This project aims to increase awareness among 2SLGBTQIA+ communities about recent changes to Canadian Blood Services’ donor eligibility criteria. By providing clear, evidence-based information, we hope to empower individuals to make informed decisions about donating blood and plasma, dispel myths, and highlight policy changes supporting greater inclusion.

At pflag Canada, we believe that equitable access to healthcare and opportunities to contribute—such as through blood and plasma donation—are essential for fostering inclusion and trust. While recent updates to donor criteria represent progress, there is still limited awareness of these changes. By leading this campaign, we aim to provide clarity, empower our communities, and advocate for continued progress toward full inclusion.

Print materials will be distributed through pflag Chapters and available for order online.  Digital resources can be downloaded from the campaign webpage on the pflag Canada website. Information about upcoming outreach events, including how to register, will be posted on our social media channels and website.

Yes, we aim to visit communities where pflag Chapters are active or nearby. These visits will include outreach events, community meetups, and opportunities to connect directly with stakeholders.

The campaign includes three phases:

• Phase 1 (December 2024): Project announcement, social media roll-out, and initial distribution of print materials
• Phase 2 (January 2025 – April 2025): Outreach events and resources focusing on key donor eligibility topics, including updates relevant to polyamory, PrEP use, and trans and gender-diverse donors
• Phase 3 (April 2025): Campaign conclusion with thank-you messages, impact summaries, and continued availability of resources online.

Recent updates to donor criteria remove restrictions based on sexual orientation. Donor eligibility now focuses on individual risk-based assessments. These changes reflect progress, but it’s important to remain informed about specific considerations, particularly for polyamorous relationships, PrEP use, and trans and gender-diverse individuals.

We recognize that these changes are a step forward but not the end of the journey. pflag Canada works with Canadian Blood Services and its 2SLGBTQIA+ Advisory Committee to advocate for further progress. This campaign also helps build trust and understanding between healthcare systems and our communities.

You can participate by:

• Attending virtual outreach events
• Using and sharing our print and digital resources
• Supporting awareness efforts through social media
• Connecting with your local pflag Chapter to explore collaboration opportunities
• Connect with Canadian Blood Services to discuss your donor eligibility further.

Inclusion in blood and plasma donation is more than policy—it’s about representation and trust in healthcare systems. By spreading awareness of these changes, we can empower 2SLGBTQIA+ individuals to participate, address ongoing misconceptions, and advocate for continued progress.

Share your feedback directly with the Canadian Blood Services 2SLGBTQIA+ Advisory Committee here.  You can also support advocacy groups like pflag Canada in their ongoing efforts; and stay informed and engage in discussions that promote equity and inclusion in healthcare.

We will track engagement with our resources, attendance at events, and community feedback to assess the campaign’s reach and effectiveness. Updates on our progress will be shared through social media and Chapter communications.

For questions, materials, support, or to partner with us on this project, please email projects@pflagcanada.ca.