Public Statement on the UCP's Resolutions 5 and 17
07 November 2022
The UCP argues that Albertan society is based on the family unit. However, Resolution 17 disregards an essential component of these families: the children themselves. Although there are 2SLGBTQ+ kids who have parents that support and understand the diversity in sexuality and gender identity, many do not. Research estimates that around 20-40% of youth experiencing homelessness identify as part of the 2SLGBTQ+ community (Crossley, 2015; Josephson & Wright, 2000; Quintana et al., 2010, as cited in Abramovich & Shelton, 2017). Through reports directly from these youth and the work we do to support them, time and time again we hear the same story: “I was outed to my family and lost my home.” These are the children who are most vulnerable, and it is not hyperbole to say mandates such as this risk the lives of these youth. Mandates like these would leave many 2SLGBTQ+ youth without support, protection, and affirmation, all of which play a critical role in their development.
Another problematic mandate by the UCP was Resolution 5. This resolution is reminiscent of Danielle Smith’s most recent statement about the unvaccinated being the “most discriminated against group” (CBC News, 2022). It is insensitive and inconsiderate of the trauma and pain that many marginalized communities have experienced and continue to experience in their lives. It is clear and known that there are groups in our society who are privileged. As a result, there are groups who benefit and those who suffer greatly. Policy 5 would only act to create a biased narrative that masks this reality. Many individuals’ identities exist at multiple intersections, such as 2SLGBTQ+ racialized folks. They do not have the privilege of pretending that the bias and discrimination they are subjected to (presently or historically), do not exist. Censoring the existence of privilege, racism, or discrimination in our education is not and will never be the solution to creating a more equitable society.
Now more than ever, it’s important to advocate for the safety of our queer and trans kids’ futures and the intersectionality in individual identities. Advocacy is important not only so 2SLGBTQ+ kids can experience a future where they thrive, but also so that their non-2SLGBTQ+ counterparts can grow up to become the allies that our society desperately needs. Allies that appreciate the beauty of diversity, such as sexual and gender diversity. Allies know that equity and inclusivity are not just promises we make, they are everyday practices.
Here are some resources:
https://www.homelesshub.ca/resource/1-introduction-where-are-we-now,