Although acceptance of sexual diversity in York Region is steadily improving, there is still a long way to go. Presently, gays and lesbians in the region cannot reliably distinguish between places that will welcome them on equal terms, versus other places where they may be liable to experience adverse treatment.

Without that information and based on the region's history of predominantly conservative attitudes, members of the LGBT community (and youth in particular) will always err on the side of caution - by assuming that revelations of their sexuality would be poorly tolerated.

The region's social venues are one example of this, as few are renowned as gay friendly. Consequently, many members of the gay community will frequently prefer to socialize in Toronto, so they can be more confident that an overheard conversation implying their sexuality will not provoke a homophobic reaction.

Please help to resolve this problem by displaying one of our cards at the entrance to your home or business. They will tell your family, friends or customers that you welcome them and will treat them with equal respect, regardless of their sexual orientation.