Community is cultivating inclusivity, no strings attached, says this sexual health coordinator

Scott Alan, men's sexual health program coordinator at PEERS Alliance on Prince Edward Island, was invited to share their perspective in CBC East Coast "all in" — a monthly CBC newsletter featuring stories and ideas that reflect all the ways we're different on the East Coast.
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Community is messy. It's complex, challenging, and yet, more vital than ever. My journey into community work, particularly within the 2SLGBTQIA+ community, has been an evolving exploration since my earliest days of volunteering at the age of 12. 

Starting at the YMCA-YWCA, I engaged in community-based events including at the zoo, working with individuals with special needs, with the Lifesaving Society, and with the Pan American Games. Connecting with community from a young age taught me the importance of both giving and receiving support.

As for the early part of my career, I pursued professional training as a brewmaster, completing a degree in brewmaster and brewery operations from the Canadian Food and Wine Institute at Niagara College. Additionally, I earned a degree in hospitality services from George Brown College. Degrees that seemed far removed from community care for the Queer population.

After a stint in the corporate world left me burned out, I found myself in P.E.I., and eventually as the operations manager of Pride PEI — a pivotal moment that thrust me into the vibrant queer community of the island. 

Now, as the men's sexual health program coordinator at PEERS Alliance, I take pride in leading initiatives to combat sexual health stigma and promote community engagement within the MSM (men who have sex with men) community. 

My role involves organizing educational programs, advocating for sexual health rights, and providing guidance on accessing healthcare services. Through my efforts, I aim to empower individuals in the MSM community to navigate sexual health challenges with dignity and confidence.

But what does this mean for being 'all in'? 

For me, it's fully immersing oneself in the complexities of community engagement, embracing its challenges and opportunities with unwavering dedication, resilience, and empathy. 

For many, identifying as queer means joining a diverse community — a lifelong membership instilled by our elders. However, true unity means different things to different people, and can come with the extra burden of societal pressures. 

Community work, far from glamorous, is a daily battle against systemic injustices and unyielding expectations. As front-facing advocates, we shoulder the weight of immense responsibility, often sacrificing personal well-being for the collective good — but the triumphs fill us with hope and joy. 

One of my most significant achievements to date is the dismantling of persistent barriers to healthcare access and stigma surrounding sexually transmitted and bloodborne infections (STBBIs). 

I had help — collaborations with local artists and production companies provided crucial support in shaping my efforts. Guided by the input of my MSM advisory committee and insights from frequent focus groups, I developed effective outreach strategies and identified barriers to accessing sexual health care services. 

In response to community needs, the collaborations helped create a variety of outreach events, including drag shows featuring talent from Canada's Drag Race, burlesque shows, and cabarets. I also hosted workshops on sexual health education to help foster a baseline of education for the MSM community.

These partnerships and collaborations have been instrumental as an access point to disseminate vital sexual health information to the MSM community and the distribution of over 1,500 HIV self-test kits this year alone, helping P.E.I. get closer to the global 95-95-95 goals for HIV elimination. 

The 95-95-95 goal aims for 95 per cent of HIV-positive individuals to be diagnosed, with 95 per cent of those diagnosed initiating treatment, and 95 per cent of treated individuals achieving viral suppression.

My hope is that everything I do or take on in life fosters an environment of inclusivity and support. While the journey has been arduous — and could still be — these accomplishments stand as a testament to the collective perseverance and unwavering commitment of all involved.

In essence, being 'all in' means embracing the community — with no strings attached. We need to recognize and celebrate our differences, while discovering common ground in our shared humanity. 

bell hooks, author, activist and scholar, has written several books, among them Killing Rage: Ending Racism. In that, she talks about what a truly inclusive space looks like: "Beloved community is formed not by the eradication of difference but by its affirmation, by each of us claiming the identities and cultural legacies that shape who we are and how we live in the world." 

All about Scott

What do you enjoy most about living on the East Coast?
The East Coast offers a unique blend of natural beauty, vibrant culture, and tight-knit communities. I appreciate the sense of belonging and camaraderie that permeates life here, along with the stunning landscapes and opportunities for outdoor exploration.

What do you consider your greatest achievement?
Fostering systemic change in sexual health care accessibility, both provincially and nationally, empowering my community to manage their sexual health and well-being effectively. Furthermore, my 16-year marriage to my high school sweetheart fills me with immense happiness and pride. 

What is your favourite wintertime/summertime activity on the East Coast?
In the winter, I enjoy cozying up by a crackling fire with a good book or taking brisk walks along snow-covered trails. In the summer, I love exploring the coastline, soaking up the sun on sandy beaches, and attending community events and festivals.

Who are your favourite writers?
I admire writers who use their words to provoke thought, inspire change, and capture the essence of the human experience. Some of my favourites include Audre Lorde, James Baldwin, and bell hooks.

What advice would you give your future self?
Follow your passions, stay true to your values, and embrace new opportunities for growth and learning. Remember to prioritise self-care, maintain balance in all aspects of life, and never lose sight of the importance of connection and community.

Scott's Picks

1. Watch: Schitt's Creek. This show has a great story, characters you can connect with, funny moments, touching scenes, and a good mix of different people and personalities in it. It's definitely worth checking out!
2. Watch: Kim's Convenience. This show stands out for its ability to blend humour with cultural insight while delivering relatable family dynamics, diverse representation, witty writing, and heartfelt moments.

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