A queer advocacy group in Calgary, known as Queer Citizens United, has urged the city’s mayor and council to declare Calgary a queer rights sanctuary city. This move aims to limit compliance with controversial provincial policies and legislation introduced by Premier Danielle Smith and the Alberta Legislature, which the LGBTQ2 community finds discriminatory. These policies include restrictions on hormone therapies, mandates for parental consent for pronoun changes in schools, and limitations on trans athletes’ participation in female sports. Local advocate Victoria Bucholtz from Queer Momentum emphasizes that this action is unprecedented yet essential in the face of rising hate crimes targeting queer and trans individuals.
Victoria Bucholtz spoke about the pressing need for such advocacy, referencing the current atmosphere where governmental actions infringe on the rights of queer and trans people. She highlighted the increasing incidence of hate crimes and discriminatory policies that further marginalize these communities. Amelia Newbert, co-executive director of the Skipping Stone Foundation, echoed this sentiment, indicating that the current support for queer and trans individuals from both the province and broader society is significantly lacking. The technical barriers erected by recent health and educational policies contribute to a feeling of hopelessness within the community, particularly among trans individuals who feel unsupported.
Mayor Jyoti Gondek expressed cautious support for the sanctuary city declaration but acknowledged the complexities involved in limiting municipal compliance with provincial mandates. She stressed that protecting human rights for all is critical and warned that compromising the rights of one group could ultimately threaten the rights of others. Gondek’s statement highlights the need for a collaborative effort to build a more inclusive society in Calgary and across Alberta, emphasizing the province’s responsibility in ensuring human rights for all, specifically for the 2SLGBTQIA+ community.
Despite initial reactions signaling some support for the idea, the scope of the city’s ability to effectively become a sanctuary city remains uncertain. The mayor’s focus on broader human rights issues indicates a recognition that the pledge for sanctuary status could initiate necessary dialogue around inclusivity and acceptance. The discussion represents a significant moment in advocating for LGBTQ2 rights at a municipal level, potentially setting a precedent for other cities to follow.
The situation highlights the growing tension between municipal advocacy groups and provincial policies, reflecting broader societal struggles regarding the rights of marginalized communities. As Queer Citizens United advocates for a sanctuary city, they are not merely seeking to oppose current legislation but are also calling for a reaffirmation of the importance of queer and trans lives within Calgary’s social fabric. Their campaign serves as a litmus test for the city’s willingness to stand against discrimination and support vulnerable populations.
As of the latest updates, responses from the provincial government regarding Queer Citizens United’s request have not been forthcoming, leaving many in the community anxiously awaiting the outcome of this advocacy. The movement spearheaded by this collective of queer individuals and their allies showcases a growing determination to challenge discriminatory legislation and foster a more supportive environment in Calgary. By soliciting city leadership to establish a sanctuary city, they aim not only to protect their rights but to instill hope and solidarity among those who feel marginalized or unsafe.
