As Quebec celebrates Pride Month, political candidates representing sexual and gender-diverse communities in the upcoming provincial election are raising concerns about a surge in hateful messages directed at them. Quebec solidaire has reported a significant increase in online hate targeting its 2SLGBTQ+ candidates, describing the situation as “exceptional” and “alarming.”
Roxane Milot, the party president and a candidate in a Montreal riding, expressed worry about the impact of online violence on marginalized candidates, stating that it deters individuals from diverse backgrounds from participating in politics. She emphasized the need for caution in rhetoric among all candidates and party leaders.
Milot, who identifies as bisexual, shared her experience of being subjected to hateful messages and online harassment. She highlighted the growing challenges faced by individuals from diverse backgrounds, such as queer, women, and racialized communities, in entering politics due to the escalating online hostility in Quebec.
Another candidate, Philippe Schnobb of the Parti Québécois, revealed that he frequently receives homophobic hate messages, including threatening comments. Despite facing such derogatory remarks, Schnobb, who also identifies as part of the sexual and gender diverse community, has chosen not to pursue legal action at this time.
The issue of online hate is not limited to a specific party, as confirmed by Philippe Laflamme, a senior adviser for content and communications at the Liberal party. He acknowledged that homophobic and transphobic comments affect candidates across all major political parties, irrespective of their personal backgrounds.
In response to the rising online violence against candidates, parties have implemented support mechanisms to assist those affected. Quebec solidaire and the Liberals have established support groups and remote assistance services for candidates in need, along with providing training sessions to equip them with skills to address violent situations effectively.
As the election approaches, the need to address online hate and protect the diversity of candidates remains a crucial issue for political parties in Quebec.