Understanding the Issue

Understanding the Rise in Anti-2SLGBTQIA+ Hate

In the past 3 years, anti-2SLGBTQIA+ hate has surged in Canada. From 2020-2021, there was a 64% increase in police-reported hate-motivated violence targeting 2SLGBTQIA+ people in Canada. Across the country, drag spaces and pride events are being met with anti-2SLGBTQIA+ protestors. 2SLGBTQIA+ community leaders in the public eye are being targeted with hate and online attacks. Efforts are underway to roll back 2SLGBTQIA+ inclusion in schools, notably regarding essential privacy protections for trans and gender diverse students. Rhetoric equating 2SLGBTQIA+ people with pedophiles abounds in the online world.

#Act4QueerSafety was Queer Momentum's inaugural campaign, aimed at pressuring the Government of Canada to tackle anti-2SLGBTQIA+ hate. With the support of partner organizations and allies across Canada, we lifted up our voices and urged action. Together, we raised the profile of this issue - and our advocacy had tangible results. In the last federal budget, the Government of Canada unveiled new funding to support education to address anti-2SLGBTQIA+ hate. This was a win - and a big step forward.

But we know more is needed. That's why we've urged the House of Commons Standing Committee on the Status of Women to conduct a study on rising anti-2SLGBTQIA+ hate. Through such a study, we can uplift lived experience, bring forward experts on the issue, and develop a roadmap to uphold the dignity, rights and safety of 2SLGBTQIA+ people in Canada.