Statement of Support to 2SLGBTQIA+ Communities
On behalf of the President’s Advisory Committee on Building an Inclusive Community (PACBIC), the Gender and Sexuality Working Group extends its solidarity with 2STLGBQIA+ community members in the face of the rising hate movements in Canada and globally. Today, on September 20th, we stand beside counter protestors who are peacefully gathering to challenge hate rhetoric that is attempting to eradicate queer and trans inclusive education, policy, and healthcare for youth in our city. Youth have the right to express themselves and their identities safely in their schools and broader communities, and we recognize the ways in which anti-trans organizing puts queer and trans youth at significant risk of further violence, marginalization, and discrimination. The hate movement is rapidly escalating, and we must stand united against hate speech, restrictive policy, anti-trans pseudoscience, and disinformation. These movements are deeply entwined with white supremacy, colonization, and other forms of oppression against marginalized groups. Contesting this rhetoric is essential for community safety and building truly inclusive spaces.
PACBIC joins the many organizations, individuals, and communities in Hamilton and beyond who are united against hate and discrimination in our school boards.
For information regarding the anti-trans protests, please visit https://www.antihate.ca/1_million_march_4_children.
For information on the counter-protests happening across the country, including tips to prioritize community safety, visit https://ofl.ca/event/no-space-for-hate/.
If you or someone you know needs support, please connect with:
- Sexual Violence Prevention and Response Office (SVPRO)
- Equity and Inclusion Office (EIO)
- Student Wellness Centre (SWC) Embracing Gender Diversity
- Pride Community Centre (PCC)
- Women and Gender Equity Network (WGEN)
- Trans Lifeline
- LGBT Youthline