Jay Tang, MSc (they/them) is a queer and trans PhD student in the Department of Sociology at the University of Victoria. Their research focuses on medical assistance in dying, suicide, 2S/LGBTQ+ health, and disability. They were born and raised in Epekwitk (colonially known as Prince Edward Island), on unceded Mi’kmaq territory, and now reside on the unceded territory of the Ləkʷəŋən Peoples, colonially known as Victoria, BC. They spend considerable time looking at the ocean and taking pictures of birds.

In March 2027, medical assistance in dying (MAID, also referred to as physician-assisted suicide) in Canada is expected to be available to those with mental illness (MI) as the sole underlying condition (MAID-MI). Despite the fact that 2S/LGBTQ+ communities experience high rates of mental illness and suicide as well as unique barriers to accessing mental healthcare and supports, there has been little to no consultation of 2S/LGBTQ+ individuals about the upcoming legalization of MAID-MI.

Jay's presentation will explore findings and recommendations from a recent community-engaged study, highlighting the perspectives of 2S/LGBTQ+ individuals with mental illness in Atlantic Canada.