City of Vancouver issues statement in support of 2SLGBTQ+ community ahead of planned protest

The City of Vancouver has issued a statement of support for the 2SLGBTQ+ community after receiving word “about a possible anti-trans protest on April 10,” at šxʷƛ̓ənəq Xwtl’e7énḵ Square (the Vancouver Art Gallery plaza) downtown.

The city said that in light of this information, it is restating its position that Vancouver “has zero tolerance for hatred, racism and discrimination. We stand against transphobia and all forms of inequity that affect our communities.”

The city noted that in accordance with the Charter of Rights and Freedoms, it cannot prevent people from assembling on public property for exercising their right of freedom of expression.

However, it also stressed that it does not issue permits for rallies or protests to take place.

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“The City reiterates our support for Vancouver’s 2SLGBTQ+ community,” the statement said. “We acknowledge the many contributions trans and non-binary people have made to Vancouver, and today and every day, we stand with you, and we support you.”

The statement also reaffirmed the city’s commitment to “reducing the barriers that trans people face in accessing vital services such as housing, and actively invests in organizations that support trans people in Vancouver.”