Dear Dr. Hanley, Since October 7th, we have witnessed in horror the tremendous loss of innocent civilian lives in Israel and Gaza. The vast majority of these deaths are in Gaza and include many children. Thousands more are displaced with little or no essentials for life. We know that where basic needs and safety are scarce, those at the margins of society — including sexual and gender minorities — suffer disproportionately. As an organization that works to expand access to housing, healthcare and other basic human rights, we are horrified at these attacks on civilian life. We ask that you and the government of Canada call for an immediate and ongoing ceasefire. In calling for a ceasefire, we join other governments, individuals and organizations including 35+ LGBTQIA+ organizations from Southwest Asia and North Africa, Canada’s Queer Muslim Network and organizations including Trans Health Saskatchewan, LGBT Youthline, Native Youth Sexual Health Network, progressive Jewish organizations in both Israel and Canada, leading feminist, queer and trans scholars, and a broad coalition of Canadian faith, humanitarian, and labour organizations including the Public Service Alliance of Canada which represents Queer Yukon Society workers. Sincerely, Duane Gastant Aucoin On behalf of the Board of Directors, Queer Yukon Society If you would like to support affected community members and/or learn more, we encourage you to check out the following resources:
Queer Yukon is committed to opposing all forms of oppression and discrimination and we believe that calling for a ceasefire in Gaza aligns with this commitment. We recognize that some folks have used this moment of Palestinian solidarity as a cover to express antisemitic rhetoric and commit acts of violence against Jewish people. We want to be clear that we condemn all acts of hatred and oppression and support the collective liberation of all oppressed peoples. Comments are closed.
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About queer yukon societyQueer Yukon Society supports, promotes, and organizes events for the LGBTQ2S+ community and our allies in Whitehorse, Yukon. Officially incorporated in 2018, Queer Yukon has been organizing Yukon Pride since 2013, as well as many other events to bring together LGBTQ2S+ and allied Yukoners to build a strong and vibrant community. Archives
December 2023
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