There is concern for the safety of the 2SLGBTQIA community.
NDP MPP Kristin Wong-Tam says hate crimes based on sexual orientation have risen 107 per cent in recent years.
“Acts of hateful, homophobia, and transphobia are showing up in schools, libraries, as well as restaurants, municipal councils, and places of worship. Pride celebrations across Ontario are seeing costs for security and insurance go up as they receive threats of violence and disruption,” says Wong-Tam.
Wong-Tam points to the attacks against 2SLGBTQIA people in the United States, especially against transgendered youth.
The American Civil Liberties Union identifies 491 pieces of legislation aimed directly at 2SLGBTQIA communities.
“In Canada, we often are warned about the dangers of importing hate from the US. Sometimes we are complacent believing that Canada is somehow immune to hate and bigotry,” says Wong-Tam.
It is why some members of the clergy in Ontario are speaking out.
More than 500 have signed a letter in support of the 2SLGBTQIA communities and denouncing the escalating hate directed at them.
Reverend Jeffrey Dale, the Minister for Justice and Faith Formation for Shining Waters Regional Council and Canadian Shield Regional Council in the United Church of Canada, Reverend Jeffrey Dale, with the United Church of Canada, says clergy of denominations are speaking out to proclaim that everyone deserves to be loved, respected, and accepted.
“We are committed to respectful and compassionate dialogue as we seek to bridge differences, foster understanding, and work towards reconciliation. Knowing that unity does not require a uniformity of belief, we who sign this statement are committed to embodying the love, compassion, and justice of Jesus Christ,” says Rev. Dale.
“And together today, we raise our voices and let our actions contribute to a world where individuals of all sexual orientations and all gender identities are embraced, celebrated, and afforded equal rights and opportunities.”
Reverend June Joplin, an associate pastor of programs and congressional care at the Metropolitan Church of Toronto, says too many people are using faith as a justification to condemn, marginalize and incite violence upon the 2SLGBTQIA community.
“No matter how loudly these hateful voices are amplified, they are not the only voices,” says Rev. Joplin.
“Pride Month is and has been for many years a joyful time in our community, and I want our community to reflect upon that and embrace that.”