SOUND OFF: Celebration and solidarity this Pride Month

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Over half a century later, what has changed?

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We have certainly made some important progress. Equal marriage has been legal in B.C. since 2003 thanks to a court challenge by queer couples. All B.C. schools now teach respect and inclusivity for everyone, regardless of sexual orientation or gender equity. There is publicly funded access to gender affirming surgeries for transgender individuals, and the ability for people to update their ID to match their true identity. The transgender and progress pride flags now fly at the legislature every year.

But many of the issues that people were fighting for so long ago are still facing us today. In fact, incidents of anti-2SLGBTQIA+ hate may actually be on the rise.

Drag performers have been targeted by violent protestors who spread misinformation about the drag community, leading to events across B.C. being cancelled. A queer couple was verbally assaulted in Vancouver simply for taking public transit together.

Last week in Hope, community members came together joyfully to paint a rainbow crosswalk – a beautiful symbol of acceptance for all who live there and visit. The very next morning, the community awoke to find the crosswalk vandalized with homophobic words, and the Pride flag at nearby Hope Community Services was burned, leaving fire damage on the building.

By 10:00 a.m. that day, students from Hope Secondary School and other members of the community had jumped into action to repair the crosswalk, to remind the community that love and solidarity will always win against hate. While there is still homophobia and transphobia in our world, it is these people who give us hope for the future.

Our New Democrat government will always stand up for every person’s right to be who they are without fear and stigma, because a more inclusive society leads to a higher quality of life for everyone.

I want to wish a happy, safe and meaningful Pride month to everyone across B.C.

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Editor’s Note: This opinion piece reflects the views of its author, and does not necessarily represent the views of CFJC Today or Pattison Media.