Members of LGBTIQA+ communities who attend their first breast screening receive a free scarf, designed by local artist LaToya Kennedy.
21 October 2025
In brief:
- BreastScreen ACT is celebrating diversity and inclusion through the Inclusive Rainbow Threads Project.
- The Inclusive Rainbow Threads Project encourages breast/chest screenings, while promoting inclusivity.
- Members of LGBTIQA+ communities who attend their first screening receive a free rainbow scarf.
Health care should be accessible and inclusive for everyone – regardless of gender identity or sexual orientation.
BreastScreen ACT is celebrating diversity and inclusion in health care through the Inclusive Rainbow Threads Project.
The initiative encourages breast/chest screens within Canberra’s LGBTIQA+ communities and champions accessible, inclusive, and supportive health care for all.
A safe space for everybody
For many people in the LGBTIQA+ community, healthcare settings may feel like a barrier.
Navigating conversations about gender, identity and bodies can feel daunting and can make accessing health services like breast screening difficult.
The Inclusive Rainbow Threads Project promotes inclusivity and support for all individuals accessing health care, regardless of gender or sexual orientation.
Through the initiative, members of LGBTIQA+ communities who attend their first screening at BreastScreen ACT will receive a free rainbow scarf as a gesture of care and solidarity.
Designed by local Ngunnawal and Wiradjuri artist LaToya Kennedy, the scarf is a symbol of community unity and inclusivity.
‘As a proud Indigenous lesbian, I draw inspiration from my ancestors and from my Indigenous and LGBTIQA+ communities, who have taught me to always be strong and proud of who I am and where I come from,’ LaToya said.
The Inclusive Rainbow Threads Project is supported by the Canberra Hospitals Foundation, the ACT Government and donors.
How you can support inclusive health care
You can support the Inclusive Rainbow Threads Project by purchasing a scarf for yourself or a loved one.
The scarves cost $49, and the remaining $30 helps to pay for an LGBTIQA+ person to receive their own when they attend a screening.
To learn more about the Project or to purchase a scarf, visit the Canberra Hospital Foundations website.
Book a breast screen today
If you’re due (or overdue) for a breast screen, consider booking one today.
Eligible Canberrans can book a free breast screen with BreastScreen ACT.
It is recommended people aged 50–74 have a screening mammogram every two years.
Screening is also available for those aged 40–49 and over 74.
To book a screening, call BreastScreen ACT on 13 20 50 or visit BreastScreen ACT’s website to find out more.
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