Statement on Tumbler Ridge

We are heartbroken by the violence in Tumbler Ridge on February 10. Our thoughts are with the victims, their families, the students and staff of Tumbler Ridge Secondary School, and the entire community navigating shock and grief. Schools should be safe places. When violence happens in those spaces, it affects all of us.

In the days following the tragedy, we have also seen and heard the rapid spread of claims and commentary focusing on the accused’s gender identity. Multiple media outlets and the B.C. Human Rights Commissioner have raised concerns about misinformation and the harmful narratives emerging online. QYS shares those concerns.

We are already hearing negative comments directed toward 2SLGBTQIA+ community members and QYS staff here in the Yukon. In small northern communities, rhetoric has real and immediate impacts. When identity becomes the headline, it can deepen stigma and increase risk for people who are already vulnerable.

In no way are we defending the suspect or their actions: We want safer communities and safer schools, not narratives that single out marginalized groups. In this moment, we urge care, compassion, and solidarity; not blame.

Queer Yukon Society stands with the community of Tumbler Ridge and with trans and 2SLGBTQIA+ Yukoners who deserve safety, dignity, and respect — especially in times of grief. We also stand alongside 2SLGBTQIA+ organizations across Canada who have spoken with clarity and principle in recent days, including Queer Neighbours Society (Red Deer), Queer Momentum, Quadrangle NL, Pride Toronto, Manitoba Pride Alliance, Qathet Pride Society, Kelowna Pride Society, and Victoria Pride Society.

Across regions and political contexts, our message is consistent: violence must never be used as a pretext to stigmatize marginalized people. We can hold space for grief, demand safer communities, and reject misinformation at the same time. Our collective safety depends on it.

Queer Neighbours Society of Reed Deer: Tumbler Ridge Statement

Queer Momentum Statement on Mass Shooting in Tumbler Ridge, BC

Quadrangle NL’s Statement on the Mass Shooting in Tumbler Ridge, BC

Pride Toronto’s Statement on the Mass Shooting in Tumbler Ridge, BC

Manitoba Pride Alliance’s Statement on the Mass Shooting in Tumbler Ridge, BC

Quathet Pride Society’s Statement on the Mass Shooting in Tumbler Ridge, BC

Kelowna Pride Society’s Statement on the Mass Shooting in Tumbler Ridge, BC

Victoria Pride Society’s Statement on the Mass Shooting in Tumbler Ridge, BC

Amongst many others…