From May 11th to 17th, thousands of Canadians will be participating in Queer Momentum's Rainbow Week for Action to resist rising hate and violence, and call for rainbow equality and freedom for all.
“Far rights groups and cynical politicians are fanning intolerance and scapegoating queer and trans people for political gain,” said Fae Johnstone, Executive Director of the Society of Queer Momentum. “Three Canadian Premiers have begun rolling back the rights and freedoms of LGBTQ+ people. Anti-2SLGBTQIA+ hate, stigmatizing rhetoric and regressive policies are resurgent. In response, Momentum is calling for the biggest national 2SLGBTQIA+ action since Marriage Equality. We're drawing a line in the sand. We are never going to be forced back into the closet.”
Rallies are planned in 12 Canadian cities leading up to May 17, the International Day Against Homophobia, Biphobia, and Transphobia. More rallies, letter writing, and educational events will also be announced soon.
“For a long time, it looked like Canada was moving towards real equality for queer and trans people. Today, things have started sliding backward,” said Lisa Lachance, President of Momentum, and the Member of the Legislative Assembly for Halifax Citadel-Sable Island. “Our Rainbow Week of Action is an opportunity for people across the country to come together and say clearly with one voice that we want freedom and equality for all. Moms and dads, friends, family members and neighbours, we are all lifting up our voices to reject hate and advance a more free, equal and socially just future - for all our families.
Momentum is partnering with the Enchante Network and Fierte Canada Pride, along with dozens of local organizations to make the Rainbow Week of Action happen. Full details are available at www.rainbowequality.ca.
We are hiring a Finance Officer who will work with the Momentum team to manage the administrative, financial, and contractual aspects of our work.
Our Take on Budget 2024: Queer Advocacy Works. More action needed.