May 17 - International Day Against Homophobia, Transphobia and Biphobia
Canada has made great strides in promoting equality for the LGBTQ2 community in the last decade. However, continued efforts are needed for members of the community to be free from social stigma and to feel safe to express who they are in society and in the workplace. Unfortunately, still today, lesbians, gays, bisexuals, transgenders and intersex people continue to face violence and discrimination, whether it’s bullying, name-calling, harassment, hate-motivated crimes or even murder in extreme cases.
According to a study commissioned by Telus in 2016, 33% of LGBTQ2 Canadians had experienced or witnessed discrimination or harassment in the workplace based on sexual orientation. A third of the population believe their workplace is not safe nor inclusive for gay and lesbian employees, and 45% believe their workplace is not safe nor inclusive for transgender employees.
On May 17, the world observes International Day Against Homophobia, Transphobia and Biphobia. This year's theme is Breaking the Silence. The campaign calls on members of the LGBTQ2 community to speak up fearlessly and to express who they are without shame. It also invites all of us to support them by speaking up against homophobia, transphobia and biphobia.
We call on all our members to play a part in eliminating all forms of discrimination, stigma and fear of reprisal faced by the LGBTQ2 community.
Don’t be a passive bystander. Take action. Speak up.
CAPE stands in solidarity with members of the LGBTQ2 community. We believe that everyone has the right to work and live in a healthy environment and feel comfortable to be their authentic self without fear of discrimination, violence, exclusion, reprisal or from being stigmatised.
