pflag Canada Mourns the Victims of the Tumbler Ridge Shooting

pflag Canada is devastated by the shooting at Tumbler Ridge Secondary School in British Columbia. Our hearts are with the families who lost loved ones, the students and staff who were injured, and the entire Tumbler Ridge community as they face this unimaginable tragedy.

Nine people were killed, including children as young as twelve and a teacher, and dozens more were injured. There are no words adequate for this loss. These were kids in classrooms. This was a community that, like so many small towns across Canada, believed it was safe.

We know that in the hours and days ahead, public attention will focus on the shooter’s gender identity. We want to be direct about what we believe:

The gender identity of a person who commits violence does not explain that violence. It does not implicate an entire community. And it must not be used to justify hatred, discrimination, or the removal of rights from transgender and gender-diverse Canadians.

We are deeply concerned that this tragedy will be exploited to advance political agendas that target trans and gender-diverse people, particularly youth. We have already seen this pattern following previous tragedies, where the gender identity of a perpetrator was used to justify surveillance, discrimination, and calls to strip rights from an entire community. This is not accountability. It is scapegoating.

To 2SLGBTQIA+ Canadians, especially trans and gender-diverse young people: You are not responsible for the actions of one individual. You deserve safety, support, and belonging. If you are afraid right now, please know that pflag Canada and our chapters across the country are here for you and your families.

To families in Tumbler Ridge: We grieve with you. We hold you close. Nothing about this moment should be about anything other than the people you have lost and the community you are holding together.

pflag Canada calls on all Canadians, including elected officials, media, and public commentators, to centre the victims, support the community, and resist using this tragedy to deepen divisions that put vulnerable people at greater risk.

pflag Canada supports, educates, and advocates for 2SLGBTQIA+ people, their families, and their communities. If you or someone you love needs support, visit pflagcanada.ca or contact your local chapter.

Trans Lifeline: 1-877-330-6366 Crisis Services Canada: 1-833-456-4566