The Issue: For the past three years, hate-motivated violence targeting 2SLGBTQIA+ people has risen. Two Canadian provinces have introduced legislation that restricts the freedom, equality and human rights of our transgender neighbours, loved ones and coworkers. Hate groups are targeting our community, protesting drag shows, doxxing community leaders and creating a culture of fear and hostility that makes everyday life harder for queer people.
This is not just about trans people. They are just a convenient target. This is about the whole queer community. This is about what kind of country we want to be: one where we respect human rights and welcome diversity, or one where we permit whole communities to be vilified, made unsafe, and subjected to discrimination and violence.
Canada has a long and proud history as a trailblazer and champion for 2SLGBTQIA+ human rights. But today, the queer community is under attack. This election, we need to send a clear message: We won’t go backwards.
Our Calls to Action:
- For all candidates and political parties to pledge their unreserved support for the freedom, equality and human rights of 2SLGBTQIA+ people, and oppose any attempt to restrict or roll-back Canada’s progress on queer and trans inclusion.
- For all candidates and political parties to commit to tangible measures to advance freedom, equality and human rights for 2SLGBTQIA+ people, through support for local 2SLGBTQIA+ organizations, public education and anti-discrimination efforts.
- For all candidates and political parties to commit to opposing the use of the notwithstanding clause of the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms by any Canadian government to override the rights and freedoms of Canadians.