Because it's 2023...
2SLGBTQ+ communities are under attack. From laws criminalizing homosexuality in Uganda, to rising anti-trans legislation in the USA - Canada must stand strong for inclusion here and beyond...
Canada has long been recognized as one of the most progressive countries in the world when it comes to protecting the rights of LGBTQ2+ individuals. By standing up for and protecting LGBTQ2+ rights, our government has reaffirmed our commitment to a society that values diversity, respect, and inclusivity for all.
We should be proud of that, but at the same time recognize that there is still much work to be done. Study after study has shown that discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation or gender identity can have a devastating impact on people's lives – leading to social exclusion, job loss, and too often, violence.
If we look to our American neighbours, it’s no exaggeration to suggest that the fundamental human rights of 2SLGBTQ+ people are under attack. Hatred is on the rise as gender diversity and expression have become frequent targets for Republican politicians, far-right groups and social-media trolls. Recent anti-gay legislation in Uganda made international headlines and drew condemnation from progressive nations around the world, but reports also point to a national conservative movement in the USA, driving over 300 pieces of legislation that directly target transgender rights. So much for the land of the free.
Before we get too sanctimonious, reports from Canadian media outlets indicate that this disgusting trend is prevalent here as well, with rising anti-LGBTQ rhetoric at school board and town council meetings. The rising attacks on drag performers and night clubs is horrific and completely unacceptable. This kind of hatred and violence and intolerance has no place in Canada or any place.
We’ve started to see intolerance normalized in hockey, as well. Unfortunately, some NHL players have recently decided not to wear pride-themed warm-up jerseys before their team’s pride nights, and the league’s “Hockey is for Everyone” campaign – saying it’s against their religious beliefs.
A rainbow jersey - a simple but compassionate sign of solidarity and a way to say - “Hockey is a sport for everyone. You matter, and you are welcome here.” At a time when kids are feeling lonelier than ever, they could use a little reassurance. Particularly those who have traditionally been made to feel othered. Athletes carry an extraordinary amount of influence, I believe they have an obligation to be a voice for positivity and inclusion - especially when it might be inconvenient.
From a more personal perspective, I grew up Catholic and attended Sunday school and catechism - if I know one thing about Jesus Christ it’s that he loved everyone, and if he were alive today, he’d be at the front of the line marching in pride parades. I put that out there in the House of Commons a few weeks ago, and received quite a lot of mail suggesting I should re-read the Bible. I went back and checked, there is still nothing in the Bible that condemns same-sex relationships. But it is also relevant to recognize how frequently new information about how humans live and interact in the world has led Christians and other people of faith to reconsider the context of their beliefs.
It’s been well documented that LGBTQ2+ individuals face higher rates of mental health issues, such as anxiety and depression, due to discrimination and societal stigma. By providing legal protections and social support, we can help to reduce the negative impact of discrimination on the mental health of LGBTQ2+ individuals.
Not only is protecting LGBTQ2+ rights morally and ethically obligatory, it also helps to promote equitable economic prosperity and social development. When individuals feel safe and secure in their identities, they are better able to participate fully in society, including in the workforce and in civic life. This can lead to increased economic growth and innovation, as well as greater social cohesion and community building.
Everyone should have the right to live their life as their true self, free of fear or judgment. Trans and gender-non-binary people face immense challenges and are continuously subjected to horrific hate crimes, social ridicule, and unequal treatment. They deserve equal access to education, health care, employment and housing opportunities just like any other individual.
To address these challenges, it is important for policymakers and community leaders to work together in promoting awareness and understanding of LGBTQ2+ issues, and to advocate for policies and programs that protect the rights of LGBTQ2+ individuals. This includes promoting inclusive education and workplace policies, increasing access to healthcare services for transgender individuals, and providing support and resources for LGBTQ2+ youth.
It’s 2023 - one doesn’t need to be a revolutionary to acknowledge that we all have a responsibility to ensure that everyone is able to live free from discrimination and violence, and that basic human rights are protected and enshrined in law. It shouldn’t be courageous to proclaim that we ought to live in a world where everyone is treated equally, fairly and justly. It should be a universally held conviction, that we all must unite against hatred and intolerance, and stand strong for universal human rights and freedoms for all.