For Immediate Release
9 June, 2023
In June, Pride Month is celebrated across the world to commemorate the Stonewall Riots of 1969, which are largely considered the origin of the modern 2SLGBTQIA+ movement. In our province Pride celebrations are taking place across Newfoundland and Labrador throughout the summer. The NL NDP is proud to stand in solidarity with members of the 2SLGBTQIA+ community.
However, we are very concerned by the rise of homophobia and transphobia that we are seeing. We must fight against hate and discrimination in all its forms. We must stand together for a safe, inclusive and accepting province for everyone. Including in our education system. Our classrooms and schools must be safe places for students to learn, participate and be included.
Pride is a time for celebration, and this year more than ever it is a time to renew our commitment to solidarity and to fight barriers. We must engage in courageous activism to ensure everyone can live free from hate and discrimination.
Unfortunately, we still have more work to do until all members of the 2SLGBTQIA+ community have full equality in Newfoundland and Labrador. Over the past few years, we have seen a rise in hate crimes, particularly against transgender people. It has made celebrating Pride more uncertain. We are saddened to see it happen in our province.
An inclusive society requires true acceptance to create a safe society. We cannot allow hate to be targeted towards the diversity within our communities.
This year, the NLNDP celebrates the victories of the 2SLGBTQIA+ community and we recommit to always fighting by your side for full equality and a future where people can live free of discrimination, homophobia and transphobia.
In Solidarity,
Jim Dinn
Leader, NL NDP
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For further information, contact Eddy St. Coeur, Director of Communications, NDP Caucus at 729-2137 (o), or eddystcoeur@gov.nl.ca