The city launched a new initiative on Monday to protect and expand access to health care for LGBTQ+ residents, with a strong focus on supporting Brooklyn communities.
The Community Coalition to Counter Attacks on Care is designed to fight stigma and misinformation that keep people from seeking medical help. The program will work with community-based organizations to strengthen neighborhood-level services, provide education about patient rights, and make sure care is accessible and safe for all.
“Everyone deserves the opportunity to live a healthy life – free from stigma and fear,” said NYC Chief Equity Office and Mayor's Office of Equity & Racial Justice Commissioner Sideya Sherman.
Local groups serving transgender and LGBTQ+ New Yorkers will receive funding to support staff salaries, allowing health advocacy and education to become a lasting part of their mission. These teams will partner with NYC Health + Hospitals clinics, conduct site visits, and lead peer education sessions across Brooklyn neighborhoods and other boroughs to increase awareness about available services.
The initiative also includes investments in diagnostic equipment and staff training to improve cancer screenings and other services tailored for LGBTQ+ patients.
Brooklyn residents have access to Pride Health Services at NYC Health + Hospitals/Woodhull. This clinic is part of a citywide network that offers gender-affirming, culturally sensitive care in a welcoming environment. Providers at these centers receive training to deliver responsive and respectful care that meets the needs of LGBTQ+ patients. NYC Health + Hospitals facilities consistently earn top ratings in the Healthcare Equality Index for their inclusive policies and practices.
Beyond clinical services, the NYC Unity Project provides a digital hub to connect LGBTQ+ New Yorkers with resources, programs, and support networks. The city’s Health Department maintains the NYC Health Map, an online directory of providers who are knowledgeable about LGBTQ+ mental health, primary care, sexual health, and gender-affirming services. The city is also investing in family-focused programs such as the Family Acceptance of LGBTQ+ Youth Initiative, which works to foster understanding and support among parents, caregivers and communities.
In Brooklyn and across the city, laws prohibit discrimination based on sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression in public spaces including health care settings. Executive Order 32, signed by the mayor, prevents the use of city resources to cooperate with out-of-state investigations or prosecutions related to gender-affirming health care. Residents experiencing discrimination can file complaints with the NYC Commission on Human Rights. For immediate mental health support, New Yorkers can call or text 988 for 24/7 help in multiple languages.
“This initiative affirms that LGBTQ+ New Yorkers, especially TGNCNB New Yorkers, deserve to feel safe, supported, and seen when seeking care,” said Ronald Porcelli, Director of the NYC Unity Project.
