As your Director for LGBTQ2+ members on the PSAC Atlantic Regional Council, I will soon be joining many PSAC members (virtually) within the Atlantic Provinces, across Canada, and people around the world in recognizing the International Day Against Homophobia, Biphobia, and Transphobia. I would like to invite you to join me on this day in celebrating our diversity and bringing attention to the fact that LGBTQ2+ rights are human rights.
The International Day Against Homophobia, Transphobia, and Biphobia is recognized every year on May 17 with events taking place both nationally and internationally. This important date is used to promote human rights for the LGBTQ2+ community and is an opportunity to lobby officials to take action. In 2004, May 17 became a day to advocate for just public policy for LGBTQ2+ people. By 2016, the commemorations had taken place in 132 countries across the globe.
These countries celebrate May 17 and draw attention to the violence and discrimination that LGBTQ2+ people everywhere face. The atrocities that are still happening around the world against the LGBTQ2+ community are horrific. In some countries, members of LGBTQ2+ communities are prosecuted, thrown in jail, and even killed because of their sexual orientation, gender identity, and gender expression. In our own country and even in the Atlantic region, LGBTQ2+ members continue to face various forms of discrimination.
I feel with strength in numbers we can keep our community safe. With COVD-19 in our midst, it is ever so important that we do not stop advocating on behalf of our community. Pride celebrations simply cannot be cancelled. As long as LGBTQ2+ members continue to face discrimination, we will continue to lobby and demand justice. Please participate in the various digital pride celebrations that will be happening in the coming weeks and months.
Stay safe.
With pride and solidarity,
Wayne Kelley
PSAC Atlantic Director for LGBTQ2+ members
Despite all the magic of social media, letters still pack a serious punch. A letter to the editor, to an MP, to your municipal councilor can make important inroads. PSAC members know more than almost anyone about the public services we provide, and we are best equipped to speak up and write up when these services are under attack.