Communities across Canada witnessed a rise in tension this week as both protests and counter-protests on the sexual orientation and gender identity (SOGI) curriculum in schools took place. The number of participants ranged from a few hundred to over a thousand people in several cities. In some instances, these protests culminated in arrests made in Ottawa, Halifax, Vancouver and Victoria, with Ottawa alone seeing three arrests for public incitement of hatred according to Ottawa Police.
These rallies were spearheaded by the “1 Million March 4 Children” group, which describes SOGI-inclusive education policies as the sexualization and indoctrination of our children in schools. As part of this larger debate, New Brunswick and Saskatchewan introduced policies that require parental consent to change students’ formal names, highlighting a worldwide pattern of parents lobbying for direct control over their children’s gender and sexual education in schools [New Brunswick] [Saskatchewan].
Wednesday’s protests have been unanimously criticized as discriminatory toward the LGBTQIA+ community. Large numbers of counter-protesters gathered to oppose the “1 Million March” rallies, with one of these counter-protests being led by NDP Party leader Jagmeet Singh (source).
Numerous politicians and public figures across Canada, as well as many education boards, have condemned the protests as being hateful and encouraging violence against LGBTQIA+ people. Prime Minister Justin Trudeau made a public statement on the issue, tweeting his condemnation of the hate, reaffirming that the Canadian government stands united in support of queer Canadians (source). In Ottawa, where the largest clash of protests took place, Mayor Mark Sutcliffe voiced similar sentiments, stating that these protests only harm youths who are seeking support and acceptance (source).
Beyond the Canadian border, similar movements opposing SOGI curriculums replicate a worldwide rise in laws targeting the LGBTQIA+ community, including the “Don’t Say Gay” laws in several U.S states [Florida] [North Carolina], and bans on transgender youths participating in sports.
Even though traditionally Canada has been considered a safe country for LGBTQIA+ individuals, the rise of anti-LGBTQIA+ sentiments has become a clear issue. Statistics Canada has provided data indicating that even though the country’s LGBTQIA+ population is expanding, the number of anti-LGBTQIA+ hate crimes is also on an upward trajectory (source).
Protests such as those seen on Wednesday have brought the issue of SOGI education to the forefront of public debate in Canada, highlighting the importance of tolerance, acceptance, and smart, measured policies in the nation’s education system. As our society continues to grapple with changing attitudes towards sex, gender and identity, it remains essential to keep the conversation focused on protecting and supporting our youth.