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. Quebec solidaire has reported a significant increase in online hate targeting its 2SLGBTQ+ candidates.
Roxane Milot, party president and a candidate in Montreal, expressed worries about the impact of online violence on marginalized candidates, deterring many diverse individuals from entering politics. Milot, who is bisexual, highlighted the challenges faced by queer, women, and racialized individuals in pursuing political roles due to escalating online hostility.
Recently, Milot herself was subjected to hateful messages and trolling on social media. The party faced controversy when candidate Vanessa Durand withdrew after making derogatory comments online towards Parti Québécois supporters from the 2SLGBTQ+ community. Durand later apologized and retracted her candidacy.
Philippe Schnobb, a Parti Québécois candidate, revealed receiving homophobic hate messages and even threats since joining politics. Schnobb, who identifies as part of the sexual and gender diverse community, emphasized the negative impact of such comments and threats on his candidacy and personal well-being.
Despite facing intolerable remarks and threats, Schnobb has opted not to pursue legal action at this time, urging for a more respectful discourse in the lead-up to the election. Liberal Leader Charles Milliard, who is openly gay, has also condemned homophobic remarks directed at him, emphasizing the importance of inclusivity in politics.
Homophobic and transphobic comments remain a challenge for all major political parties, according to Philip Laflamme, a senior adviser for the Liberal party. The Coalition Avenir Québec and the Quebec Conservative Party, led by openly gay leader Éric Duhaime, have also acknowledged receiving hateful comments online.
As instances of online violence against candidates rise, parties like Quebec solidaire and the Liberals have implemented support systems and training sessions to assist candidates in handling such situations effectively. These initiatives aim to provide essential resources and guidance to candidates navigating the increasingly hostile online landscape.