Released 16/05/2025
People from the LGBTIQA+ community who attend a breast screening appointment in the ACT will receive a rainbow scarf to foster inclusivity and encourage health screenings.
BreastScreen ACT has today launched the Inclusive Rainbow Threads Project ahead of the International Day Against Homophobia, Biphobia, Intersexism, and Transphobia.
In collaboration with local artist LaToya Kennedy of Kalari Art, BreastScreen ACT has created vibrant rainbow scarves to encourage people from the LGBTIQA+ community to invest in their health and book in for a breast screen.
Minister for Health Rachel Stephen-Smith emphasised the importance of creating a safe and welcoming environment for all individuals accessing breast screening services in the ACT.
“The Inclusive Rainbow Threads Project is a positive step towards ensuring that breast and chest screenings are accessible and inclusive for everyone, regardless of gender identity or sexual orientation,” Minister Stephen-Smith said.
“The rainbow scarves will be given to individuals who identify as part of the LGBTIQA+ community and attend their breast screening appointment.
“By fostering an environment of support and respect, we aim to encourage regular screenings and promote the health and wellbeing of the LGBTIQA+ community in the ACT.”
The project is supported by BreastScreen ACT’s community of donors and supporters, Luton Properties, the ACT Government LGBTQIA+ and Social Inclusion Strategy Team, and the Canberra Hospital Foundation.
Through Canberra Hospital Foundation’s Pay It Forward initiative, members of the community can contribute by purchasing a scarf where a portion of the funds will pay it forward for someone in the LGBTQIA+ community who attends a screening.
This project builds on the installation of three new mammography machines at ACT community health centres in 2022-23.
Free mammograms are available to eligible Canberrans over the age of 40 years. People aged 50 to 74 years are actively encouraged to have mammograms every two years. It only takes about 20 minutes and no referral is needed.
More information on BreastScreen ACT can be found here: www.canberrahealthservices.act.gov.au/services-and-clinics/services/breastscreen-act.
Quotes attributable to Jodie Kirkness, BreastScreen ACT Quality and Promotions Manager:
“It’s important to make people feel safe and included when they come in for a breast screen. Health care should be accessible, inclusive and supportive for everyone – regardless of gender identity or sexual orientation.
“Research shows that people within this group experience increased discrimination, affecting access to health services and ultimately reducing the benefits of early detection.”
Quotes attributable to LaToya Kennedy of Kalari Art:
“As a proud Indigenous lesbian, I draw inspiration from my ancestors who have walked this land before us and who have managed and maintained this land for tens-of-thousands of years; and from my Indigenous and LGBTQIA+ communities who have taught me to always be strong and proud of who I am and where I come from.
“I also get inspiration from my surroundings, recreating elements of Country and telling stories through symbolic representation.”
“The design shows multiple aspects of traditional elements, such as meeting places, connection pathways, people, symbols that represent the LGBTQIA+ community, footprints, and animal tracks.”
“The design also demonstrates connections and unique relationships that Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people have with the country, land and the LGBTQIA+ community.”
- Statement ends -
Rachel Stephen-Smith, MLA | Media Releases