Amid the ongoing Pride Month celebrations in Quebec, political candidates representing diverse sexual and gender identities gearing up for the upcoming provincial election are raising concerns about a surge in hateful messages directed at them. Québec solidaire has reported facing an unprecedented level of online hate targeting its 2SLGBTQ+ candidates, labeling the situation as “exceptional” and “alarming.”
Roxane Milot, the party president and a candidate in a Montreal constituency, emphasized the need for caution in political discourse due to the current wave of online violence. Milot, who identifies as bisexual, highlighted how the online attacks on marginalized candidates can deter individuals from diverse backgrounds from participating in politics. She stressed the worsening situation in Quebec, with various marginalized groups facing increased hostility.
Milot disclosed that she had recently been subjected to hateful messages and online trolling. Notably, the party made headlines when one of its candidates, Vanessa Durand, withdrew from the election race after making derogatory comments online directed at Parti Québécois supporters from the 2SLGBTQ+ communities. Durand later apologized and retracted her candidacy.
Philippe Schnobb, a Parti Québécois candidate who joined politics in January, shared his experiences of receiving homophobic hate messages, including recent threats. Schnobb, who identifies as part of the sexual and gender diverse community, underscored the prevalence of homophobic remarks directed at him since entering politics, expressing his discomfort, especially when threats are involved.
Despite facing intolerable remarks and threats, Schnobb stated that he currently has no plans to pursue legal action, urging for a more respectful discourse as the election approaches. He emphasized the need to address personal and sensitive issues calmly during the electoral period.
Liberal Leader Charles Milliard, who is openly gay, responded to inquiries about the readiness of Quebecers to elect a gay premier by asserting that every citizen has the right to vote, emphasizing transparency about his identity. He later condemned homophobic comments directed at him on the International Day Against Homophobia and Transphobia.
Philip Laflamme, a senior adviser for content and communications at the Liberal party, highlighted the prevalence of homophobic and transphobic remarks across all major political parties, noting that even non-2SLGBTQ+ candidates can become targets due to their party affiliations.
Christine Fréchette, the communications director for Premier and Coalition Avenir Québec Leader, expressed disapproval of the attacks on candidates, stating that the party closely monitors social media accounts for such behavior.
The team of Quebec Conservative Party Leader Éric Duhaime, who is openly gay, confirmed that he has faced online hate but prefers not to draw additional attention to it. Parties have acknowledged the need to adapt to the increasing online violence against candidates, with support structures being established within political organizations to assist candidates facing harassment. Training sessions are also being provided to equip candidates with the skills to handle hostile situations effectively.
