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 Trans Health Network`s Shelter Access campaign (to be launched in Fall 2009).
Final product: The final product will be a15-20 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 required: An upper-level student with an interest in feminist studies/social geography/public health/municipal policy. Must speak French.
About the organization: The Trans Health Network (THN) is a coalition of groups who have come together to fight for better access to health care services for transgender, transsexual and gender-variant people in Montreal and throughout Quebec. The network includes Project 10, Stella, Action Santé Travesti(e)s et Transsexuel(le)s du Québec (ASSTTeQ), and the 2110 Centre for Gender Advocacy.