Urgent Call to Action: Lead with Love Against 2SLGBTQ+ Hate

UPDATE: A powerful gathering in Charlottetown, P.E.I. this weekend brought together approximately 60 advocates to confront the rising tide of hate against the 2SLGBTQ+ community. Attendees emphasized the urgent need to “lead with love” when responding to discrimination, a message that resonated deeply among participants.

Leena Dabo, a local resident, shared her reflections on the event, stating, “I am naturally a little confrontational,” when faced with hate. However, she learned that a more compassionate approach may be more effective. “Always lead with love” emerged as a transformative mantra during discussions, echoing the sentiments of many attendees.

Executive Director of the Society of Queer Momentum, Fae Johnstone, delivered the cornerstone message. “When folks don’t understand people like me, I actually have a lot of empathy for that,” Johnstone remarked. She stressed the importance of connecting over shared values to foster a more inclusive society. “I believe we contribute to a more inclusive country, and a country that’s better for everyone.”

As Transgender Awareness Week unfolds, advocates like Jay Alexander highlighted the emotional toll of discrimination, especially for those newly identifying as 2SLGBTQ+. “It can be scary and intimidating,” Alexander noted, emphasizing the need for warmth and compassion when encountering misunderstanding. “Right now, we live in a very reactionary society,” she added, urging participants to approach such situations with empathy rather than combativeness.

The gathering also addressed the alarming rise in violence against the 2SLGBTQ+ community, a pressing issue underscored by recent incidents, including viral security footage showing a man vandalizing Pride flags in local storefronts.

Social worker Henry Luyombya emphasized that meaningful conversations are essential in confronting hate. “It starts with listening,” he stated, reinforcing the idea that understanding and compassion are pivotal in these discussions.

As communities brace themselves for ongoing challenges, the message from this weekend’s gathering is clear: leading with love not only fosters understanding but is crucial in building a safer environment for everyone.

With the urgency of the situation escalating, advocates will continue to rally for a compassionate response to hate, aiming for a more inclusive future for the 2SLGBTQ+ community.

Stay tuned for more updates on this developing story as communities unite against discrimination and strive for meaningful change.