As Quebec celebrates pride month, political candidates from diverse sexual and gender backgrounds running in the upcoming provincial election are expressing concerns about a surge in hateful messages targeting them. Québec solidaire has reported facing an unprecedented level of online hate directed at its 2SLGBTQ+ candidates.
Party president Roxane Milot, a candidate in Montreal, emphasized the need for caution in political rhetoric due to the alarming rise in online violence against marginalized candidates. Milot, who identifies as bisexual, highlighted the impact of such attacks on discouraging individuals from diverse backgrounds from participating in politics.
Recent incidents include Vanessa Durand, a Québec solidaire candidate who withdrew after making derogatory comments towards Parti Québécois supporters from 2SLGBTQ+ communities. Philippe Schnobb, a Parti Québécois candidate, revealed that he regularly receives homophobic hate messages, some of which have escalated into threats.
Despite facing intolerable remarks, Schnobb has refrained from pursuing legal action at this time. Liberal Leader Charles Milliard, who is openly gay, has also spoken out against homophobic remarks directed at him. Political parties have acknowledged the prevalence of homophobic and transphobic comments, with efforts being made to support candidates facing online violence.
Various parties have implemented support systems for candidates, such as support groups and remote assistance services within Québec solidaire and the Liberals. Training sessions are being offered to help candidates navigate and respond to violent situations on social media platforms.