As Quebec celebrates pride month, political candidates from diverse sexual and gender backgrounds gearing up for the upcoming provincial election are raising concerns about a surge in hateful messages targeting them. Québec solidaire is facing a significant wave of online hate directed at its 2SLGBTQ+ candidates, described as “exceptional” and “alarming” by the party.
Roxane Milot, the party president and a candidate in Montreal, emphasized the need for caution among candidates and party leaders in their communication due to the current climate. Milot, who is bisexual, highlighted the impact of online violence on marginalized candidates, noting that it deters individuals from diverse backgrounds from participating in politics.
Recent incidents have underscored the severity of the issue, with one of Québec solidaire’s candidates, Vanessa Durand, withdrawing after making offensive comments online. Philippe Schnobb, a Parti Québécois candidate, also shared his experience of receiving homophobic hate messages and threats since entering politics earlier this year.
In response to the escalating online violence, parties have taken steps to support their candidates. Québec solidaire and the Liberal party have established support groups and remote assistance services to help candidates in need. Additionally, training sessions are being provided to equip candidates with the skills to handle such situations effectively.
The prevalence of homophobic and transphobic comments has not spared any political party, with individuals facing such attacks regardless of their affiliation. Despite the challenges, leaders like Liberal Leader Charles Milliard and Quebec Conservative Party Leader Éric Duhaime remain committed to their public roles and identities, denouncing hate speech directed at them.