Determined Montrealer Continues Hunger Strike for ‘X’ Gender Recognition
TL/DR –
Non-binary Montreal resident, Alexe Frederic Migneault, has embarked on a hunger strike to push Quebec’s public health insurance board to include a third gender option on health cards. Migneault has consumed only liquids and camped near the insurance board’s office since starting their strike. Despite having added the X gender option to birth and death certificates last year, the provincial health board said they are still studying the potential impact this could have on the health and social services network.
Alexe Frederic Migneault’s Hunger Strike for Gender Neutrality on Quebec Health Cards
Non-binary Montreal citizen, Alexe Frederic Migneault, embarked on a hunger strike, entering the sixth day on Saturday, November 25, 2023. The goal of their strike is to urge the Quebec public health insurance board (RAMQ) to consider a third gender option in their health cards.
They confessed to undergoing difficulty, especially in the mornings, due to reduced blood sugar and hydration. Migneault is surviving only on liquids including water, vegetable broth, sports drinks, and occasional hot chocolate, since the commencement of the strike.
Migneault has camped near the RAMQ office in Quebec City, enduring extreme overnight cold in their car insulated with blankets. They have found respite from the cold at malls and cafes during the day, and a friend recently provided temporary accommodation.
For years, Migneault has been advocating for an ‘X’ gender marker on Quebec health cards, which currently only recognize ‘M’ and ‘F’ for male and female. RAMQ stated that the Quebec Health Department is still evaluating the consequences such a change might bring to the health and social services network.
Migneault stressed on the urgency of this issue, arguing that the ‘X’ marker could significantly improve the overall health of non-binary individuals by making them feel safer when accessing health-care services.
Despite the pressing nature of their cause, Migneault has yet to receive any communication from any Quebec government or RAMQ officials since the strike commenced. However, they have managed to catch the attention of the Minister overseeing the government office dedicated to fighting homophobia and transphobia.
Minister Martine Biron has asked Migneault to cease their protest and be patient as progress is being made by an interdepartmental committee studying the gender marker issue. Migneault, in response, has vowed to continue their strike until the ‘X’ option is implemented.
—
Read More Health & Wellness News ; US News