Kamloops Pride is hosting its first ever STI testing event, endeavoring to remove barriers that sometimes prevent people within the LGBT community from opening up to healthcare professionals. Prick! aims to provide a safe, inclusive space for people to take charge of their sexual health.
“We really wanted to host an event that tackled sexual health and safe sex practices, something that everyone — regardless of your sexuality or identity — should make a priority,” said Pride outreach coordinator Sam Numsen.
Prick! will offer free on-the-spot STI testing by Interior Health nurses between 6 p.m. and 9 p.m. on April 19th at Kamloops United Church.
Numsen said some folks who identify as part of the LGTQ2S+ community have difficulty opening up their about their identity or sexuality with doctors for fear of being further marginalized and this event aims to remove those barriers.
The drop-in event is first-come, first served and participants are asked to arrive before 8:30 p.m. if they'd like to be tested. Organizers will be on-hand with information regarding sexual health, STI's and other LGBTQ2S+ resources.
The Prick! model began with events in Kelowna hosted by the Men’s Health Initiative.
“We’re hoping to take this well-established and important event and bring it to the folks in Kamloops who need it most,” Numsen said.
