Project description:
This project will consist of a qualitative and quantitative systemic examination of the Montreal shelter system to determine the state of access for transsexual, transgender and gender-variant people in need of shelter and housing (with a possible specific focus on women`s shelters). Furthermore, the research will look at other cities which have successfully adapted their shelter system (such as Toronto and New York City) to improve access for trans people. The final research will be used in the context of the ASTT(e)Q's ongoing work to improve access to shelters.
Final product:
The final product will be a 15-20 evaluation report, with a 2-3 page summary report (to be used for media and public awareness), summarizing the status of the Montreal shelter system, and compiling resources and making recommendations based on the successes of trans activists in other cities in implementing policy regarding trans access.
Skills & time commitment required:
An upper-level student with an interest in feminist studies/social geography/public health/municipal policy. Must speak English and French. Student should expect to spend 5-10 hours a week. Project will include field work (interviews/survey with shelters) and ongoing meetings with the organization.
About the organization:
Action Santé Travesti(e)s et Transsexuel(le)s du Québec (ASTT(e)Q), also known as Québec Trans Health Action, is a project of CACTUS-Montréal which was founded in 1998. ASTT(e)Q was started largely in response to the need for access to health care and social services that were sensitive to trans people's needs. We aim to promote the health and well-being of trans people through peer support and advocacy, education and outreach, and community empowerment and mobilization. We understand the health of trans people and our communities to be interrelated to economic and social inequalities, which have resulted in trans people experiencing disproportionate rates of poverty, un(der)employment, precarious housing, criminalization and violence. We believe in the right to self-determine our gender identity and gender expression free from coercion, violence and discrimination. We advocate for access to health care that will meet the many needs of our diverse communities, while working collectively to build supportive, healthy and resilient communities.