Working with Trans and Gender Diverse (TGD) People in CAF Health Services
Being affirming is not about perfection - it’s about effort, respect, and kindness.
Goal: Foster an affirming, inclusive, and respectful healthcare environment for all CAF members and colleagues.
Key Definitions
Sex Assigned at Birth (SAAB)
Medical designation at birth (e.g., assigned male, female or intersex)
Gender Affirming
I see you as a whole and complete person, including your gender identity
Affirming
Words or deeds which support and reassure another person
Cisgender (Cis)
Someone whose gender identity aligns with their SAAB
Non-binary
A gender identity that doesn’t fall into the categories of man or woman
Transgender (Trans)
Someone whose gender identity differs from their SAAB.
Gender Identity
One’s internal sense of being masculine, feminine, both, neither, or somewhere else on the spectrum. It is a social construct and can change over time.
Two-Spirit (2S)
A sacred, cultural identity in many Indigenous communities.
Best Practices for Affirming Interactions
- Ask for pronouns: “Hi, my name is Cpl Smith (she/her). May I ask your name and pronouns?”
- Use gender-neutral language until confirmed: Rank + Last Name is excellent
- Do not ask invasive questions: Never ask about surgeries or anatomy unless clinically necessary – we don’t normally ask people about their sexual organs, this is no different.
- Always consider the dignity of the person in front of you, seek to affirm them, and treat them with kindness
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Working with Trans and Gender Diverse (TGD) People in CAF Health Services
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If You Make a Mistake (e.g., use the wrong gender)
- Pause
- Apologize
- Correct yourself
- Move on
Example: “Sorry, I meant to say ‘they.’ Thanks for your patience.”
Example Scenario: Sgt Andrew Bouchard
Andrew calls to book cervical cancer screening. Don’t question whether he “should” need it. Instead say: “May I ask a few questions to make sure we book the right service for you?” “Have you had this screening before, if so, when?”
Why it Matters
- TGD persons face higher rates of: Healthcare avoidance due to prior poor experiences with the medical community
- Discrimination and violence in their daily lives
- Stress-based illness (e.g., depression, PTSD, cancer risk)
Your affirming actions can be life them) with everyone changing, so lean into kindness.
Clinic Tips
- Display affirming symbols (e.g., pronoun pins)
- Display affirming signage (e.g., rainbow flags*)
Only if you can ensure the space remains safe regardless of who is present. - Review forms for gendered or outdated language and bring them forward for possible updates
- Train and support your team on inclusivity in the workplace - build shared knowledge
- Practice using gender neutral language (they, Your affirming actions can be life them) with everyone
Questions? Reach out: WDHPROFTECH-SFDPROFTECH@forces.gc.ca