Statement
May 17, 2021
UBCIC Observes International Day Against Homophobia, Transphobia and Biphobia
((Xʷməθkʷəy̓əm (Musqueam), Sḵwx̱wú7mesh (Squamish) and səlilwətaɬ (Tsleil- Waututh)/Vancouver, B.C.) May 17, 2021. Today the Union of BC Indian Chiefs (UBCIC) observes the International Day Against Homophobia, Transphobia and Biphobia and honours those past and present who have fought to secure universal respect for Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer, Intersexual, Asexual and Two-Spirited (LGBTQIA2S+) rights and end discrimination based on gender identity, gender expression, and sexual orientation. UBCIC stands in solidarity with Indigenous and non-Indigenous LGBTQIA2S+ communities whose immense bravery and resilience continues to inspire Indigenous peoples across Turtle Island in their fight for equality.
On May 17th we remember the historic injustices and human rights violations that LGBTQIA2S+ activists overcame to pave the way for quality and freedom for all. In Canada we remember the “LGBT Purge” and the fear-driven actions of the federal government that resulted in the systematic harassment, surveillance, coercion, and dismissal of sexually and gender diverse employees from the 1950s to the 1990s. Many survivors of hate crimes, violence, and trauma still await justice, and we must remember that accountability and action to reconcile the harm caused to them remains a critical duty of the Canadian government.
UBCIC is a staunch advocate for putting an end to the violence and discrimination that intersects the Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls (MMIWG) crisis and the hate crimes committed against LGBTQIA2S+ communities. Many Indigenous individuals who identify as sexually and/or gender diverse confront additional layers of racial discrimination – they face a complex confluence of gendered violence and racism that is tied to a legacy of colonialism and sex-based discrimination. UBCIC calls upon Canada and the global community to continue stimulating action, dialogue, and awareness for LGBTQIA2S+ issues, and to fulfill the responsibility of all to protect and stand up for those who face systemic intolerance and ignorance. UBCIC looks forward to a brighter future and celebrates the love, hope, and pride that continues to be sown by the LGBTQIA2S+ community.
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Media inquiries:
Grand Chief Stewart Phillip, President of UBCIC: (250-490-5314)
Chief Don Tom, Vice-President of UBCIC: (604-290-6083)
Kukpi7 Judy Wilson, Secretary-Treasurer of UBCIC: (c/o 604-842-2977)
UBCIC is an NGO in Special Consultative Status with the Economic and Social Council of the United Nations. For more information please visit www.ubcic.bc.ca
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