#NoSpaceForHate

September 19, 2023In anticipation of anti-SOGI protests taking place across BC and Canada tomorrow, QMUNITY would like to take a moment to center the feelings of hurt and fear experienced by 2SLGBTQIA+ people as a result of planned and coordinated homophobic and transphobic demonstrations, policies, and debates spreading across Canada.Through programs and services, QMUNITY is seeing a surge in youth, seniors, and adults seeking mental health resources, safer spaces, and community support. Queer youth in particular are facing disproportionate harm and heightened risks of suicidality, rejection, and discrimination in an educational system that threatens their safety and security inside schools, as well as in their homes.QMUNITY is continuing to meet demands for trans-affirming programs and support, including the delivery of free gender-affirming garments for queer youth, support for name and gender marker changes on identification, and transgender and gender-diverse support groups. Our 2SLGBTQIA+ youth and senior programs are increasing efforts to offer drop-in spaces, peer-to-peer support, and services to anyone in need of support and connection. And our queer, trans, and Two-Spirit counselling program is working to reduce wait-times and ensure timely access to mental health support for those in need.In this critical time, QMUNITY wishes to reaffirm that:

• Trans and gender-diverse people have always existed, and deserve care, support, and safe spaces to exist free from discrimination and harm; 

• Queer and trans youth deserve protection. They deserve safe spaces to be seen, celebrated, and supported in the face of homophobic and transphobic rhetoric and violence;

• Schools are a place for all youth to be cared for with dignity, care, and opportunities to explore, express, and celebrate their own unique and intersectional identities.

To the parents, caregivers, and educators who are supporting 2SLGBTQIA+ youth, we appreciate you and see the work you are doing. Your work to protect youth from the realities of a society that is not designed to see and value them is paramount.

In the coming days, members of queer, trans, and Two-Spirit communities will face increasing amounts of harm, discrimination, and violence. QMUNITY is disheartened to see a rise in hateful and extremist views on self-expression and bodily autonomy informing legislative decisions that directly harm and reduce the rights of 2SLGBTQIA+ people and communities in Canada. 

We call upon organizations, allies, and everyone within our communities to please check on your queer, trans, and Two-Spirit friends, colleagues, and peers, and offer your support through these scary times #NoPlaceForHate.

In solidarity,

QMUNITY