NDP statement on International Day against Homophobia, Biphobia and Transphobia

NDP Leader Jagmeet Singh made the following statement:

“Today is the International Day Against Homophobia, Transphobia and Biphobia, a time to celebrate the progress that’s been made around the world to end discrimination against 2SLGBTQI+ people and embrace sexual and gender diversity.

Thanks to the tireless work of advocates and community leaders, we have come a long way in the fight for equal rights and against homophobia, transphobia and biphobia. But there is a lot of work left to do in Canada and around the world to ensure we're always standing up against the hatred and discrimination.

There are still many countries around the world where being gay or trans is criminalized and can lead to imprisonment, violence, and murder. This is a devastating reality for people who just want the freedom to be themselves.

The Liberal government must be a stronger global advocate in countering this discrimination and providing a safe home for refugees fleeing homophobia, transphobia and biphobia. The recent news that the blood ban against gay men and men who have sex with men will finally be removed was a great step forward for Canada, but the community concerns that remain are a reminder that discrimination against 2SLGBTQI+ people continues to take place in our country.

New Democrats stand in solidarity in the fight against homophobia, biphobia and transphobia, both in Canada and across the world. We will always push the government to do more to stamp out discrimination and promote the values of inclusion, equality, and respect for 2SLGBTQI+ people.”