As Quebec celebrates pride month, political candidates from diverse sexual and gender backgrounds running in the upcoming provincial election are raising concerns about a surge in hateful messages directed at them. Québec solidaire has reported a significant increase in online hate targeting its 2SLGBTQ+ candidates.
Roxane Milot, party president and candidate in a Montreal riding, expressed worries about the escalating online violence faced by marginalized candidates, which she believes deters individuals from diverse backgrounds from engaging in politics. Milot, who identifies as bisexual, highlighted the need for caution in rhetoric among all candidates and party leaders.
Recent incidents include Vanessa Durand, a Québec solidaire candidate who withdrew after making derogatory comments online towards Parti Québécois supporters from 2SLGBTQ+ communities. Philippe Schnobb, a Parti Québécois candidate, also disclosed receiving homophobic hate messages, some of which escalated into threats, emphasizing the negative impact on his involvement in politics.
Charles Milliard, Liberal Leader and a member of the LGBTQ+ community, addressed the issue of homophobic remarks directed at him and emphasized the importance of openness and transparency in politics. Political parties, including the Liberals and the Coalition Avenir Québec, have acknowledged the prevalence of homophobic and transphobic comments targeting candidates and have implemented support structures and training sessions to address such challenges.
Despite facing online harassment, candidates like Éric Duhaime of the Quebec Conservative Party remain resilient and choose not to amplify the hateful comments they receive. The ongoing efforts to combat online violence and provide support to candidates reflect a broader trend of adapting to the evolving landscape of political discourse in Quebec.