The Public Service Alliance of Canada BC Region stands proudly and resolutely with our transgender and gender-diverse members, as well as the entire 2SLGBTQIA+ community across Canada. We are deeply troubled by the rise in hate speech and anti-2SLGBTQIA+ events that target our transgender and gender diverse siblings and seek to perpetuate discrimination and intolerance. More disturbing is the intentional use of children and their well-being to spread fear and disinformation about SOGI (sexual orientation and gender identity)-inclusive education in Canadian classrooms, culminating in anti-trans hate rallies organized throughout this province and across the country on September 20.
Our union has always been at the forefront of the fight for workers’ rights, equality, and social justice. We firmly believe that every worker, and indeed every person, regardless of their sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, should be able to live without the looming threat of violence or hatred.
We extend our unwavering support not only to the adult queer community but also to trans youth who are particularly vulnerable during these challenging times. Transgender youth should have the right to grow, learn, and flourish in safe environments that value and support their unique identities. It is imperative that educational institutions foster environments where trans youth can learn and thrive without fear of transphobic displays of hate.
We strongly condemn the targeting of transgender youth by right-wing organizations. These actions are not only morally reprehensible but also deeply harmful to the mental and emotional well-being of trans youth. All transgender and gender diverse people deserve to be treated with respect, dignity, and compassion, and we will not stand idly by while they are subjected to discrimination and hatred being guised as party policies aimed at protecting ‘women’s spaces’ or as government decisions to enshrine ‘parental rights’. It is shameful that actions by elected officials are providing fodder for the far right movement that strives to invoke violence against the 2SLGBTQIA+ community.
As a progressive union, PSAC BC is committed to supporting transgender and gender diverse people, advocating for their rights, both within the workplace and in society at large. We urge PSAC BC members and allies to stand in solidarity with the 2SLGBTQIA+ community, and to reject and challenge any rhetoric that promotes intolerance.
Our union is guided by the principles of inclusivity, diversity, and social justice. This means we must actively oppose all forms of hate and bigotry, and to work together to create a more inclusive and equitable society for all.
In solidarity,
Jamey Mills, Regional Executive Vice-President – BC Region
Damir Moric, PSAC BC 2SLGBTQIA+ Coordinator