United against hate — Pflag Renfrew County

The following Open Letter was received from Pflag Renfrew County on May 16.

On May 17, people around the world observe International Day Against Homophobia, Transphobia, and Biphobia (IDAHOTB). This year’s theme of “together always: united in diversity,” is an urgent reminder of the power of solidarity to push back against a rising tide of misinformation, hate speech, hate actions, and violence directed at the 2SLGBTQ+ community in Canada and around the world.

As a community of 2SLGBTQ+ people, family members, friends, and allies, pflag Canada chapters are deeply concerned with the erosion of 2SLGBTQ+ rights in the United States and a corresponding increase in hateful and harmful rhetoric and actions here in Canada.

Today and every day, pflag Canada chapters from coast to coast denounce those who attempt to demonize and marginalize 2SLGBTQ+ people. Further, we call upon community leaders, elected officials, and allies to do their part to protect the dignity and human rights of 2SLGBTQ+ people, and to recognize, affirm, and celebrate the rich diversity of gender identities, gender expressions and sexualities.

We have a collective responsibility to end homophobia, transphobia, and biphobia. We must protect and advance the hard-fought gains that have taken decades to achieve through the tireless work and dedication of countless activists and advocates.

We encourage allies to help in our efforts:

• Speak out against bigotry, misinformation and hate speech.
• Be a positive presence at Pride events.
• Listen to and amplify the voices of 2SLGBTQ+ folks.
• Listen to and support your 2SLGBTQ+ family members, friends, and colleagues.

While we recognize the battle before us, we also recognize the power of solidarity, diversity, and hope to bring about change. Together we can ensure equality, respect, and dignity for all.

The pflag Canada chapter network offers peer support and resources for 2SLGBTQ+ individuals, family members, friends, and allies. We envision a world that affirms, respects, and values all sexualities, gender identities, and gender expressions.

SIGNATORIES:

We, the pflag chapters listed below, along with pflag Canada, wholeheartedly support this statement.

Jill Holroyd (she/her)
Pflag Canada – Renfrew County
www.pflagrenfrewcounty.ca