Canadian Blood Services says it has apologized to the LGBTQ+ community “for the harm caused by previous donor eligibility criteria.”
Until 2022, the old criteria prohibited sexually active men who have sex with men, as well as certain trans people, from donating blood or plasma.
Since the end of this ban, Canadian Blood Services has asked all donors questions about their sexual behavior.
The organization mentions that Graham Sher, CEO of Canadian Blood Services, presented the apology in person to members of the LGBTQ+ community during an event which took place Friday at its head office.
Dr. Sher said the organization regrets “that this policy has contributed to discrimination, homophobia, transphobia and HIV-related stigma.”
The press release did not specify which group was present during the apology.
Canadian Blood Services was scheduled to hold a press conference Friday afternoon.
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