Hamilton, November 19, 2018 – Statement from the Hamilton Academy of Medicine Executive Regarding Resolution R4
The members of the Hamilton Academy of Medicine Executive express deep concern regarding the motion passed at the Ontario Progressive Conservative Party Convention this weekend. The Ontario PC’s resolution to debate gender identify calls on the party to recognize gender identity for what they allegedly believe it to be — a ‘highly controversial, unscientific, liberal ideology.’ The resolution will also see that gender identity issues are removed from Ontario schools and its curriculum.
This is simply wrong. Gender Dysphoria is a recognized medical diagnosis accepted widely by all major medical organizations including the Ontario Medical Association, Canadian Medical Association, College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario, Canadian Pediatric Society, Canadian Psychiatric Association, Ontario College of Family Physicians, The Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada, and The Endocrine Society. Hamilton’s Doctors are committed to the diagnosis, treatment and care of transgender Canadians.
We also remind the Government that gender identity/expression is included in both the Provincial and Federal Human Rights Codes. The Conservative caucus unanimously supported its inclusion in the Provincial Human Rights Code in 2012. The Honourable Christine Elliott, Minister of Health and Long Term Care, was a co-sponsor of this legislation.
We, as advocates for the health and safety of our patients, stand with Transgender Ontarians and call upon the Government and Premier Ford to denounce this statement and remove it immediately.
Sincerely,
The Hamilton Academy of Medicine Executive:
Dr. Dennis DiValentino, President
Dr. Simon Oczkowski, President-Elect
Dr. Jason Profetto, Vice-President
Dr. John Centofanti, Treasurer
Dr. Jennifer Brasch, Past- President
Dr. Carys Massarella, Director- at- Large
Jessica Wooder, Executive Director
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The Hamilton Academy of Medicine is a local voluntary professional association funded by physicians for physicians. The Academy binds the medical community of the Greater Hamilton Area, promoting a spirit of cooperation and unity, while meeting the educational, social and political needs of its members. The Academy acts at the territorial branch society of District 4 of the Ontario Medical Association (OMA) providing a full range of programs, services and benefits to assist member physicians.
For more information, please contact:
Jessica Wooder, Executive Director
Office: 905-528-1640
Email: [email protected]
