Ryerson University’s introduction of a scholarship for transgender people of colour is a positive step towards acknowledging intersectionality in the education system. Transgender people are faced with a variety of challenges in society, from transphobia and challenges in the healthcare system, to facing a higher risk of unemployment and mental illness. It’s important that educational institutions take these challenges into consideration when developing scholarships and financial aid for students.
Transgender people of colour are specifically disadvantaged by systemic discrimination, racism, and transphobia in the workplace and in society. By providing a scholarship particularly for transgender people of colour, Ryerson University has become a role model for other Canadian universities.
Acknowledging the struggles of marginalized groups like transgender people of colour is important to raise awareness about people’s intersectional struggles, as well as the experiences of different Canadians. If other universities could follow suit with the creation of more scholarships for marginalized Canadians, this would create more equal opportunities for people to pursue a post-secondary education.
Ryerson’s introduction of a $1,000 scholarship, which will be given to one student per year for five years, is a great start to increasing awareness about different people’s experiences and adversities. Through this, we can only hope that more universities will follow suit in ensuring educational institutions are inclusive of everyone, especially those who belong to marginalized groups.
