FOCUS
Two-Spirit, lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, intersex, and asexual (2SLGBTQIA+) communities experience social, economic, political, and health disparities. These disparities are caused by and continued through structural factors that discriminate on the basis of sexual orientation, gender identity and expression, and sex characteristics. These disparities are rooted in colonialism and racism and can increase risk of detrimental environmental exposure or be worsened by environmental exposures. Leo’s research aims to understand environmental impacts on the health and wellbeing of 2SLGBTQIA+ communities, especially those who have intersecting marginalized identities. In addition they hope to identify and collaborate with different stakeholders to identify policy mechanisms to reduce health impacts of environmental degradation and climate change, and foster resilience for 2SLGBTQIA+ communities.
MORE ABOUT LEO
Leo has engaged with community groups, government, and academic institutions on environmental justice research and action over the past decade. Using environmental justice principles, they aspire to include 2SLGBTQIA+ communities and unique ways of understanding the world (e.g., breaking down binaries) in environmental health research and policy.
