Premier Caroline Cochrane has issued the following statement of support for Pride Month and all members of the 2SLGBTQQIA+ community in the NWT.
“As Pride Month draws to a close, I am pledging my commitment to stand with and support the two-spirit, lesbian, gay, bisexual, trans, queer, questioning, intersex, asexual and additional sexually and gender diverse (2SLGBTQQIA+) community year-round.
“Fifty-four years ago today, the Stonewall riots began following a police raid at the Stonewall Inn, a gay bar in New York City. These gay liberation riots are widely considered to be the catalyst and inspiration for Pride marches and Pride Month.
“While much has changed for the 2SLGBTQQIA+ community since Stonewall, we must never take this hard-earned progress for granted. It is too easy to be complacent, especially for those not living as a 2SLGBTQQIA+ person.
“It is not enough to wave a rainbow flag every year in June and call ourselves allies. Allyship is not static, nor is it self-defined. We must commit to listening, self-reflection, and to pursuing lifelong learning about how to continue to support 2SLGBTQQIA+ people.
“While we live in a territory that embraces diversity, we are not immune to homophobia and transphobia. This month, the Government of the Northwest Territories introduced Pride colours on our websites and social media pages. Amid the many positive, joyful messages of support, we did receive several hateful comments in response. This is just one small example of how our 2SLGBTQQIA+ neighbours are being harassed, and it is not acceptable.
“No one should ever be made to feel lesser than because of their sexuality or gender identity. As a society, we cannot tolerate this, and we must continue to ensure 2SLGBTQQIA+ people are treated equally and fairly. Join me in pledging to stand with and support the 2SLGBTQQIA+ community today and every day.”
