Kamloops Pride group responds: International Day Against Homophobia, Biphobia and Transphobia

KAMLOOPS – Hateful language, violence, bullying, micro-aggression, and discrimination are a reality in the lives of some Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual, Trans, Queer, and others who identify their sexuality or gender alternatively. Kamloops is not immune.

“In a small city like Kamloops which tends to reflect conservative values, there are unfortunately some negative stereotypes held about LGBTQ people; these can be expressed in a number of ways, including making derogatory slurs and homophobic insults, bullying and discriminating against LGBTQ people in schools, the workplace and the public space," Kamloops Pride president Luara Hsu says.

The International Day Against Homophobia, Transphobia & Biphobia (IDAHO) is a world-wide celebration of gender and sexual diversities.

In response, on Tuesday, May 17, a moving public witness event and candlelight vigil will be held in Kamloops.

“One of the best ways we thought of countering the impact of homophobic behaviours is to allow those who experience it to tell their stories, and to be heard by caring peers and allies in a safe environment," Hsu says. "We hope to see many people attend the event at the Art We Are, and walking in the candlelight vigil."

This event is meant to be an empathetic response rather than an overtly political one. Any person who rejects prejudice and violence against others can meaningfully express their convictions by participating in the Kamlooops IDAHO event, thereby showing solidarity and resistance to homophobia, biphobia, and transphobia.

The Kamloops IDAHO event begins at The Art We Are at 246 Victoria St., Kamloops at 7:00 p.m. with a time for sharing and witnessing personal stories, followed by a candlelight vigil and march to City Hall at 8:45 p.m.

For information, please contact Laura Hsu at kamloopspride@gmail.com, go to the Day Against Homophobia website or the Kamloops Pride Facebook page.