June is known and celebrated across Canada and the World as Pride Month, when 2SLGBTQQIA+ communities and allies come together to celebrate. Pride gatherings are rooted in the arduous history of minority groups who have struggled for decades to overcome prejudice and be accepted for who they are. The Alberta Party believes the celebration of our province’s 2SLGBTQQIA+ community makes Alberta a happier, safer, and more welcoming place to live.

Pride Month commemorates the 1969 Stonewall riots and represents the bravery, and liberation of the 2SLGBTQQIA+ community’s fight for civil rights. Today, the 2SLGBTQQIA+ community is welcomed and celebrated by ensuring equality and protection under the law, but an astounding percentage of the community are still subject to discrimination and prejudice. The Alberta Party agrees with the protected grounds in the Alberta Human Rights Act and would further enhance protected areas to include prohibiting discrimination in the areas of healthcare and education.

Pride events welcome allies from outside the 2SLGBTQQIA+ community; they are opportunities to show support, to observe, listen and be educated. As many Pride activities occur throughout the month in communities across Alberta, the Alberta Party encourages Albertans to take this opportunity to celebrate and learn more about the many people that make up Alberta’s diverse communities and enjoy the festivities.

There is no doubt that more work must be done to ensure the mental health and wellbeing of 2SLGBTQQIA+ peoples in Alberta. The Alberta Party strives to work with these communities to find solutions together, because love is love and all should be accepted for who they are.