QUEEN’S PARK — MPP for Guelph Mike Schreiner released the following statement to mark Pride month.
“I’d like to wish everyone a happy Pride month.
Pride is all about honouring the strength of 2SLGBTQ+ communities and their vital contributions to so many social justice movements around the world.
It’s about coming together to stand up for inclusive, loving, caring communities.
It’s also an important time for us to look back on the history of anti-2SLGBTQ+ violence in our communities – and to commit to dismantling the oppression that 2SLGBTQ+ people still face today.
We must not forget that the Pride movement is rooted in resistance – resistance to anti-2SLGBTQ+ violence, to racism, and to so many systemic injustices that we are still grappling with today.
We would not be where we are today without protest. Without confrontation. Without difficult conversations. Without immense pressure for change.
And, as we’re now witnessing a disturbing rise in violence against 2SLGBTQ+ communities in our province and around the world, it’s more important than ever that we are vocal in our support for Pride. In our commitment to building inclusive, caring communities.
Each and every one of us has a role to play. Because allyship isn’t just a statement – it’s a practice.
So here’s to celebration, and here’s to continued resistance.
Here’s to a safe and happy Pride.”