March 24, the Victoria Street Bridge in downtown Trail will glow red, joining over 51 monuments across Canada in a record-setting show of solidarity for World Tuberculosis (TB) Day.
This nationwide effort aims to spotlight the global crisis of TB, the world’s deadliest infectious disease, at a time when international health funding is in decline and cases in Canada are on the rise.
“The devastating effects of the dismantling of USAID and other countries stepping back from funding global health cannot be understated,” said Taryn Russell, executive director at Results Canada.
“We must stand with people suffering and dying from TB around the world now more than ever."
This infectious diseases do not respect borders, and the rise in TB cases here in Canada is alarming, Russell added.
"The solution is to work together to protect our future, not turn a blind eye.”
In recent years, countries including the United States, the United Kingdom, and the Netherlands have slashed international development and global health budgets, a trend that threatens to leave millions without life-saving treatment, according to Results Canada.
The U.S. alone contributes 42 per cent of all global health funding, making its retreat particularly concerning, Results Canada stated.
"Advocates warn that Canada must resist following suit and instead reinforce its commitment to combating TB worldwide."
TB remains a significant public health threat, killing 1.25 million people in 2023 and disproportionately affecting vulnerable communities, including Indigenous and newcomer populations in Canada.
The increase in monuments illuminated this year underscores growing awareness and advocacy efforts by organizations like Results Canada, whose volunteers have worked tirelessly to promote action against TB.
Locals are encouraged to visit the Victoria Street Bridge on Monday, March 24, snap a photo, and share it on social media using #YesWeCanEndTB.
Participants are also urged to send their photos to their Member of Parliament with a call to strengthen Canada’s commitment to eradicating TB at home and abroad.
“We are proud to partner with Trail on this important initiative,” Russell said. “Together, we can work towards a stable world free of TB, where every individual has access to the care and support they need to live a healthy life.”
To get involved, visit resultscanada.ca.
