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With the Trans Collective and C3SVS’s new gender-affirming gear grant out, let’s look at what gender-affirming gear is, and how the grant can help you. We will also take some time to discuss gender-affirming gear in an open, and judgment-free space.
Gender-affirming gear are garments or items used to support trans, non-binary, and gender non-conforming individuals. It is used to present your gender expression in your own terms to create comfort and support those experiencing gender dysphoria. It can also help provide safety to some trans, non-binary, or gender non-conforming folks, as it can support individuals with “passing” as cis-gendered. This can create further comfort generally in public, can help with unsafety in washrooms and around campus, and can support individuals in not getting misgendered by others as often. While gender-affirming gear can help some, it is not always needed. Trans, non-binary, or gender non-conforming folks who decide to not wear gender-affirming gear are making valid choices. This gear is about making yourself comfortable in your skin, whether it is used or not does not affect the validity of a person's identity.
Gender-affirming gear supports individuals in so many ways, as mentioned above. It provides safety, comfort, and wellbeing for some folks. It can support individuals to wear clothing they want to wear and express themselves how they hope to, and it can support with gender dysphoria. Gender-affirming gear is very valuable to many individuals and creates a space for these folks to thrive how they see fit.
To pick your gender-affirming gear there are many things to think about including type, sizes, colours, fabrics or materials, and more. It can be hard to find the right gear for you. Speaking to professionals like those at “Come As You Are” a local Toronto shop in Kensington Market, can be very helpful. Looking at online resources like the “Trans Tool Shed” or joining support groups, like those at the 519 on Church Street can also be useful in finding the right gear for you. Also, you can check out shops around Toronto (some sex shops will sell gender-affirming gear) and/or look online if you want the gear to be shipped to you.
Struggling to afford this gender-affirming gear? C3SVS and the Trans Collective have teamed up to create the Trans Wellbeing Fund (Gender Affirming Gear Grant). This grant allows trans, non-binary, and gender non-conforming students with a financial need to receive up to $100 per year for gender-affirming products.
Emergency Resources (Are you in crisis? Contact these resources)
- Trans Lifeline 1 (877) 330-6366 By transgender people for transgender people
- LGBT Youth Line (1-888-687-9688)
Resources: