2SLGBTQIA+ journey continues

Dear Editor, 

Once Pride is over and the vibrant rainbows have been put away, it is crucial to remember that our work toward equality and acceptance is far from over. Pride began as a protest against the unjust treatment of members of the 2SLGBTQIA+ community, and it continues to be a protest today because many of our fellow community members still do not experience equal treatment. While many, especially our allies, can go back to their lives after Pride and continue on peacefully, the reality is that many of us in the 2SLGBTQIA+ community do not have that luxury. We carry the burden of worry, wondering if we will still have a job because of our identity or if we will be evicted from our rental properties due to whom we love. We fear for our safety, worrying about being assaulted simply for embracing our queer identity. And perhaps most distressing of all, we live in constant fear that our gender identity could cost us our lives, as evidenced by the devastating reports of deaths within the Transgender communities across the world. As members of the Taber community, it is incumbent upon all of us to take action and create positive change. Together, we can transform our town into a place where everyone feels safe, valued, and embraced for who they are. Here are some steps we can take to make a real difference: 1. More representation: Let’s show our solidarity and support by displaying pride flags on our properties or businesses year-round. This simple act sends a powerful message to the world that queer people thrive in Taber and that we are an integral part of what makes our community great. 2. Speaking out against hate: Homophobia, transphobia, and biphobia have no place in our community. It is important to speak out when we witness these forms of discrimination. Though those who harbour hatred may be a small but vocal minority, we can drown out their voices of intolerance with our chorus of support and love. 3. Advocating for change: We must actively advocate for 2SLGBTQIA+-inclusive policies in our workplaces, schools, and other institutions. By championing diversity and equality, we can create environments where everyone feels welcome and respected. By implementing these actions, we can weave a tapestry of diversity, making Taber a warmer, more inclusive community. Embracing the richness of our differences will only serve to enhance our shared experiences, making Taber a more vibrant place to live and thrive. Let us not confine our support for the 2SLGBTQIA+ community to the month of Pride alone. Instead, let us commit to an ongoing effort to build a community where everyone, regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity, can live without fear of discrimination or violence. Together, we can make a lasting impact and create a future in which everyone feels seen, heard, and loved. I implore all members of the Taber community to join hands in this important journey toward inclusivity and equality. Sincerely, 

– Jayce Wilson, Taber