(OTTAWA) – Elizabeth May, Leader of the Green Party of Canada (MP, Saanich-Gulf Islands), released the following statement on the International Day Against Homophobia, Transphobia and Biphobia:

“In Canada, we pride ourselves on our openness and diversity, yet we recognize there is still much to overcome as a society. Today was chosen to commemorate the day in 1990 when homosexuality was finally removed from the World Health Organization’s International Classification of Diseases. Since that time, Pride parades have become staple annual events in cities across Canada and the world.

“Like hundreds of thousands of Canadians, I look forward to participating in Pride celebrations each year. The positive energy I experienced last summer at both Toronto and Victoria Pride parades was incredible. These events continue to motivate me as an MP to champion LGBTQ2+ rights.

“This year, we turn our thoughts to the horrific reports from Chechnya, where gay and bisexual men have been subjected to torture and imprisonment for their sexual orientation. These human rights violations have been roundly condemned by the international community, and we call on Foreign Affairs Minister Chrystia Freeland to use all diplomatic channels to deliver Canada’s strong rebuke of these atrocities.

“All members of the Green Party of Canada stand united on the International Day Against Homophobia, Transphobia and Biphobia.”

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For additional information or to arrange an interview, contact:

Dan Palmer

Press Secretary | Attaché de presse

dan.palmer@greenparty.ca

m: (613) 614-4916