Rainbow Week of Action against rising hate May 11 to May 17

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.



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In January, we launched a micro-grant program to help power-up grassroots advocacy and community building in Alberta, as part of our response to Premier Danielle Smith’s attack on the freedom, rights and healthcare access of transgender youth and their families. We received dozens of applications, reflecting the commitment, strength and creativity of 2SLGBTQIA+ advocates and allies across Alberta. 

We are now thrilled to introduce you to the 12 projects we’re funding across the province.

Each group has it's own vision and unique flavour. Some are fully focused on activism and political advocacy, while others are focused on building inclusive spaces and fostering community care. The range of initiatives reflects something our communities have long known: it takes a village to build and sustain a movement. It takes protesting in the streets, and community spaces that foster queer joy and healing. 

We're proud to play our part in sustaining vital advocacy and community building in Alberta. 

Like all Canadians, we were shocked to learn of the horrific shooting in Tumbler Ridge. Our hearts go out to the victims, their families, and all affected by this tragedy.

Queer Momentum joins Canadians from coast to coast to coast in condemning this appalling violence, which has no place in our schools or anywhere else in Canada.

We are mindful that news cycles can create fear and vulnerability. We reject any attempt to tie an entire community to the actions of one individual.

Our focus remains on the victims, their families and the community. We stand ready to assist our neighbours in Tumbler Ridge however we can.

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