Amid the pride month festivities in Quebec, political hopefuls from diverse sexual and gender backgrounds gearing up for the upcoming provincial election are raising concerns about a surge in hateful messages directed at them.
Québec solidaire is grappling with an unprecedented wave of online hate aimed at its 2SLGBTQ+ candidates, labeling the situation as “exceptional” and “alarming.”
Expressing apprehension, party president Roxane Milot, a candidate in a Montreal riding, emphasized the need for caution in political discourse given the current climate. Milot, who identifies as bisexual, highlighted how online violence targeting marginalized candidates could deter individuals from diverse backgrounds from engaging in politics.
Milot revealed her recent encounter with derogatory messages and online “trolls.” The party also made headlines when candidate Vanessa Durand withdrew her candidacy after making disparaging comments towards Parti Québécois supporters from 2SLGBTQ+ communities.
Philippe Schnobb, a Parti Québécois candidate who entered politics earlier this year, disclosed receiving homophobic hate messages, including recent threats. Schnobb, who identifies with the sexual and gender diverse community, acknowledged the unpleasant nature of such comments and threats.
Despite facing intolerable remarks, Schnobb refrained from legal action for the time being, urging for restraint and sensitivity in the lead-up to the election.
Liberal Leader Charles Milliard, openly gay, emphasized the importance of public representation and vowed not to conceal his identity, addressing homophobic remarks directed at him on the International Day Against Homophobia and Transphobia.
Philip Laflamme, a senior adviser for the Liberal party, highlighted how homophobic and transphobic comments pose challenges for all major political parties, affecting candidates irrespective of their personal backgrounds.
Amid the escalating online violence against candidates, parties have implemented support mechanisms to aid those in need. Within Québec solidaire and the Liberals, support groups and remote assistance services have been established to offer guidance and training sessions for handling hostile situations.