The 2SLGBTQ+ community has won many hard-fought victories in recent years. However, not all members of our community have experienced the same level of social gains. QTBIPOC members have historically not been recognized adequately for their contributions and continue to be discriminated against. Recent world events have forced the world to take a hard look at how racialized and gender diverse people are still mistreated, and how deeply ingrained this discrimination is. But, unfortunately, with increased awareness also comes defensiveness. This is being demonstrated currently in the increased incidences of overt discriminatory behaviour and violence towards racialized people and towards gender diverse people.
To deny the validity or existence of gender diverse people is not only to contradict scientific research; it is to deny them their human rights. And, in this social and political climate, to embolden others to discriminate against them. This is incredibly harmful.
We know that almost all trans people have been victims of overt discrimination and over half have experienced some form of violence specifically because they are trans. Any action that encourages discrimination contributes directly to these potentially deadly outcomes.
Trans rights are human rights. Recent tragic events have crystallized our failings as a society to properly address discrimination. There is no longer time to rest on good intentions; it is the time for bold actions.
iSMSS promises to advance, through actions, its commitment to equity, diversity, and inclusion through speaking out when our community members are being treated unjustly and advocating for policies and practices that lift up a culture of respect for the people who work and study on our campuses.
To the trans members of our community, and our trans students in particular: we see you, we believe in you, and we will continue to stand with you. Know that you are valued and supported by a community committed to not only the dignity of your humanity but to the limitlessness of your potential.
Sincerely,
Dr. Glynnis Lieb, Executive Director of iSMSS
lieb@ualberta.ca