Statement from Mike Schreiner on International Day against Homophobia, Transphobia and Biphobia on May 17

QUEEN’S PARK — The Green Party of Ontario Leader made the following statement:

The Green Party of Ontario stands alongside all allies in commemorating this important day for the LGBTQIA2S+ community. Since 2004, this day has been marked to draw attention to the historic and institutional discrimination, as well as tragic losses, suffered by LGBTQIA2S+ people, and the barriers that continue to prevent their full inclusion and acceptance by society.

May 17 was selected because it was on this day in 1990 the World Health Organization declassified homosexuality as a mental disorder.

“We have come a long way since then, but we know that prejudice still exists in Ontario – both openly and in more hidden ways that discriminate against lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and intersex people. “ said Green Party Leader Mike Schreiner.

In our laws and services across Ontario, we must ensure that everyone receives full human rights protections, regardless of gender expression, gender identity or sexual orientation. But individually and in our communities, we must make the conscious effort to celebrate diversity and applaud and support those who have the courage to honour their true selves.

“The lived experience and everyday struggles of the LGBTQIA2S+ population remain under-appreciated and it is up to all Ontarians to build a truly equitable, open and inclusive society.” added Schreiner