We need to support a more welcoming community

Editor:

Research shows that sexual and gender diverse (gay, lesbian, bisexual, trans, twospirited, queer, intersex, asexual +) people who experienced higher levels of family/ friends support were less likely to report having suicide ideation, lower levels of depression, and lower misuse of alcohol and drugs compared with other sexual and gender diverse people from families that had lower levels of family/friend acceptance and support.⁣⁣

Change may start with an individual, but progress is paved when people stand together, proud and strong.⁣⁣

Thanks to the brave and tireless efforts of sexual & gender-diverse advocates and allies alike, Lethbridge is a more welcoming and compassionate community.⁣⁣ But we still have a ways to go.⁣⁣

Many sexual and gender-diverse people continue to face harassment, discrimination, and violence simply for being who they are.⁣⁣ Inequality has no place in our society.⁣⁣ Lethbridge becomes stronger every day that we choose to embrace diversity.⁣⁣

If we are to build a truly responsible and respectful society, then we all must stand up and help foster a more just, humane, and understanding community.⁣⁣ As Albertans

and as Canadians, we can’t wait for this happen on its own; we need to make it happen right now, and we need to start in our homes, schools, & communities.⁣⁣

Actively supporting sexual and gender diversity is a commitment to being openminded, accepting of sexual and gender diversity, supporting each other, and creating a welcoming and safe community for everyone.⁣⁣

Tyler Gschaid

Lethbridge