Dismayed but Unsurprised - Queer Momentum reacts to 69% increase in hate-motivated crimes targeting 2SLGBTQIA+ people

Yesterday, Statistics Canada released new data on police-reported hate-motivated crime in Canada.

The data included a 69% increase in crimes that target individuals because of their sexual orientation. Such crimes have been on the rise since 2021, with an increase of 70% in 2021, 16% in 2022, and now 69% in 2023.

 

“The ongoing increase in hate crimes targeting 2SLGBTQIA+ people is unsurprising, given the rise of hateful rhetoric and misinformation,” said Fae Johnstone, Executive Director of Queer Momentum. “Let me be clear: responsibility for this rise rests squarely on far-right groups, and conservative politicians like Pierre Poilievre, Scott Moe, and Danielle Smith who are using misleading slogans and stereotypes to turn people against their 2SLGBTQIA+ neighbours."

 

“We call on politicians across all parties to unequivocally denounce anti-2SLGBTQIA+ hate and reaffirm their commitment to an inclusive and equitable Canada - for 2SLGBTQIA+ people and diverse communities of all kinds” said Dennis Stuebing, Vice-President of Queer Momentum. “We deserve elected officials who bring communities together, rather than sow division and normalize hatred”.

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Momentum is seeking proposals from qualified communications and design firms or independent practitioners to lead a comprehensive rebrand. This includes the development of a new visual identity, refined messaging framework, and a suite of practical tools and assets to support both day-to-day communications and high-impact advocacy work.

This work is being undertaken alongside the launch of a new strategic plan. As Momentum enters its third year, the organization is experiencing rapid growth and increased national visibility. This rebrand is intended to define its next phase of development and position Momentum clearly as Canada’s leading 2SLGBTQIA+ advocacy organization.

The selected partner will be expected to deliver a cohesive and adaptable brand system that reflects the organization’s role in shaping public discourse and mobilizing communities. Proponents have an option to include the development of a new Wordpress-based website. See Appendix A for further details.

The Society of Queer Momentum is seeking a full-time Communications Specialist to help lead the organization’s communications, campaigns, and public profile. This is a one-year contract, with anticipated start date in early June 2026

This is a full-time position (35 hours per week) with a $70,000 salary and two weeks (10 days) vacation.

Reporting to the Executive Director, the Communications Specialist will play a central role in shaping how Momentum communicates with supporters, partners, media, and the broader public. This role is responsible for delivering strong, strategic, and high-quality communications that advance advocacy goals, support organizing and campaign work, strengthen Momentum’s brand, and help grow the organization’s reach and impact across Canada.

This position is suited to someone who is politically aware, strategically minded, highly organized, and deeply committed to 2SLGBTQIA+ communities and issues. The successful candidate will bring strong judgment, excellent writing and editing skills, and the ability to produce high-quality work in a fast-moving environment. 

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