Today, on Pink Shirt Day, we reaffirm our unwavering commitment to 2SLGBTQIA+ rights and demand bold action to combat discrimination, intolerance, and political inaction. This day is more than wearing pink—it is a call to action. It is a statement against bullying, homophobia, and transphobia and a challenge to unions, allies, and communities to ensure that every person, regardless of their sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression, can live freely, safely, and with dignity.
We must never forget the origins of Pink Shirt Day. In 2007, a Grade 9 student in Nova Scotia was bullied for wearing a pink shirt—an attack rooted in homophobia and rigid gender norms. His peers took a stand, sparking a movement that continues today. But let’s be clear: the same prejudices that fueled that act of bullying persist, and 2SLGBTQIA+ youth continue to face violence, discrimination, and exclusion. Supporting inclusion means directly naming and confronting the forces that threaten it.
As a progressive union, PSAC BC stands unequivocally with transgender, non-binary, and gender-diverse people. We will not stay silent as right-wing movements push harmful policies that put 2SLGBTQIA+ lives at risk. We call on our members and allies to actively challenge and reject any rhetoric that promotes hate, exclusion, and intolerance.
Across Canada, we are witnessing a dangerous rise in policies and political rhetoric that directly target the 2SLGBTQIA+ community. Gender-inclusive policies are under attack, affirming practices are being restricted, and misinformation is fueling bigotry. These are not just abstract political debates—they have real and devastating consequences for marginalized communities.
During the recent BC provincial election, the BC Conservative Party ran on an anti-SOGI platform, openly opposing inclusive education and advocating for policies that would put trans, two-spirit, and non-binary youth in danger. Their insistence on so-called “parental rights” is nothing more than a thinly veiled attempt to roll back protections and support systems for 2SLGBTQIA+ students, increasing their vulnerability to harm. True safety and support for young people come from affirming environments, not policies that force them into silence and isolation.
At the national level, we see similar patterns. Just last month, federal Conservative leader Pierre Poilievre made deeply harmful comments about gender, aligning himself with rhetoric that denies the lived realities of trans, two-spirit, and non-binary people. His words mirror the recent executive order signed by Donald J. Trump in the U.S., which seeks to erase protections for trans and two-spirit people in schools and beyond. These are not just political talking points—they are direct assaults on human rights.
With a federal election approaching, we call on all political parties to commit to protecting the rights of 2SLGBTQIA+ people and to reject policies that threaten their safety and dignity. Human rights are non-negotiable. We will hold politicians accountable and demand clear commitments to upholding and advancing protections for queer, two-spirit, and trans people across Canada.
PSAC BC has always been at the forefront of the fight for workers’ rights and social justice. Our commitment to 2SLGBTQIA+ inclusion goes beyond words—it is reflected in our actions. We will continue working alongside 2SLGBTQIA+-led organizations to develop educational resources and advocate for strong, affirming policies, particularly in schools where 2SLGBTQIA+ students are increasingly targeted by right-wing attacks. Most importantly, we will not be silent in the face of discrimination, hate, and fearmongering.
On this Pink Shirt Day, we challenge you to move beyond symbolic gestures. While kindness is essential, it is not enough. We must be vigilant, outspoken, and unwavering in our advocacy. We must actively oppose those who seek to erase, harm, or marginalize 2SLGBTQIA+ people. And as we head toward the federal election, we must ensure our leaders do more than offer words of support—they must take decisive action to uphold and protect human rights.
PSAC BC will never waver in its fight for justice, equality, and human rights. Not just today, but every day, we will continue working to create a world where all people—especially 2SLGBTQIA+ youth—can live as their authentic selves, free from fear, violence, and discrimination.
Jamey Mills
PSAC Regional Executive Vice-President, BC Region
Damir Moric
PSAC BC 2SLGBTQIA+ (Pride) Coordinator