Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre's statement limiting gender recognition to male and female sparked immediate backlash from LGBTQ+ advocates who condemned his stance as harmful and discriminatory.
Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre stated on Wednesday that he recognizes only two genders: male and female, and believes the government should refrain from engaging in discussions about gender identity. This statement prompted a reaction from a prominent LGBTQ organization, which asserted that denying the existence of transgender and gender-diverse individuals could contribute to an increase in discrimination and violence against them.
During an interview with CP24 news channel, Poilievre was questioned about former President Donald Trump's executive order declaring that the U.S. would only recognize two sexes that are unchangeable. Poilievre responded that he is not aware of any genders beyond male and female, adding that if the interviewer had any others to suggest, he was welcome to share them. When asked if he would request the U.S. to recognize the gender-neutral 'X' marker available on Canadian passports, Poilievre shifted the conversation to the cost of living, emphasizing his focus on ensuring Canadians can afford essential goods and services. He stated that he prioritizes empowering people to control their lives and reviving Canada's promise of a strong paycheck and a pension that enables the purchase of affordable necessities. Poilievre asserted that other politicians are free to discuss gender identity, while he remains committed to addressing the concerns of everyday Canadians. Responding to Poilievre's remarks, Helen Kennedy, the executive director of Egale Canada, an LGBTQ advocacy organization, emphasized the importance for all political leaders to champion the rights of transgender and gender-diverse individuals amidst rising misinformation and hatred. Kennedy stated that denying the existence of these individuals disregards decades of medical and psychological research, as well as the lived experiences of those directly affected. She further asserted that such denial contributes to discrimination, hate, and violence, emphasizing that transgender and gender-diverse individuals have always existed and will continue to do so.
Pierre Poilievre Conservative Party Gender Identity LGBTQ+ Transgender Discrimination Canada
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