Bill 9 is harmful. We must step up. We must respect trans identities.
Every person has the power to respect trans identities, no matter what any government says.
Last night, the Government of Alberta passed Bill 9, using the Charter’s notwithstanding clause to shield laws that restrict gender-affirming health care for youth, force schools to “out” students, require parental consent for name and pronoun changes for anyone under 16, and ban trans girls and women from women’s sports.
These laws are harmful. But they cannot take away your ability to see, honour and stand with trans people in your life and community.
You have a choice in this moment
Across Canada, people are choosing to take action:
• Learn and share.
Follow organizations like Skipping Stone and Egale. Share evidence-based information about gender-affirming care and the real impact of these laws with your networks.
• Use your voice.
Talk with friends, family, co-workers, school communities, unions, faith groups and local leaders about why trans rights matter, no matter where you live.
• Show up.
Attend events that centre trans voices, support services providing affirming care and advocacy, and participate in gatherings that call for human rights protections for everyone.
• Respect trans people in your daily life. Use people’s correct names and pronouns. Believe them when they tell you who they are. Create spaces where they feel safe, seen and valued.
What pflag Canada is doing
We are staying in close contact with Alberta and national 2SLGBTQIA+ organizations, sharing evidence-based resources, holding space for peer support, and continuing advocacy so governments across Canada understand that attacks on trans communities are unacceptable.
To trans, nonbinary and gender diverse people, especially youth and families in Alberta:
Your life, your safety and your joy matter. The Government of Alberta’s actions do not define your worth. You deserve to be seen, supported and celebrated for exactly who you are. We stand with you, today and every day.