As pride month festivities unfold in Quebec, candidates with diverse sexual and gender identities participating in the upcoming provincial election are raising concerns about a surge in hateful messages directed at them. Québec solidaire is facing an unprecedented wave of online hate targeting its 2SLGBTQ+ candidates, which the party describes as “exceptional” and “alarming.”
Roxane Milot, the party’s president and a candidate in a Montreal riding, expressed apprehension about the situation, emphasizing the need for caution in rhetoric among all candidates and party leaders. Milot, who identifies as bisexual, highlighted how online violence against marginalized candidates hinders individuals from diverse backgrounds from engaging in politics.
Recalling her recent experience as a target of hateful messages and online “trolls,” Milot emphasized the detrimental impact such behavior has on marginalized individuals considering political involvement. The party faced controversy when candidate Vanessa Durand withdrew after making derogatory remarks towards Parti Québécois supporters from 2SLGBTQ+ communities, subsequently apologizing and ending her candidacy.
Philippe Schnobb, a Parti Québécois candidate, disclosed receiving homophobic hate messages, including recent threats, since entering politics earlier this year. Schnobb, who identifies as part of the sexual and gender diverse community, highlighted the escalation of derogatory comments and threats directed at him, underscoring the need to address such behavior leading up to the election.
In a similar vein, Liberal Leader Charles Milliard, who is openly gay, faced questions about the readiness of Quebecers to elect a gay premier and emphasized every Quebecer’s right to vote. He condemned homophobic remarks directed at him on the International Day Against Homophobia and Transphobia, reflecting the pervasive nature of such comments across political parties.
Amid escalating online violence against candidates, parties have adapted by implementing support structures and assistance services. Quebec solidaire and the Liberals have established support groups and training sessions to aid candidates in navigating violent situations and ensuring their well-being during the electoral process. The Coalition Avenir Québec and Quebec Conservative Party have also acknowledged instances of hateful comments directed at their candidates, emphasizing the need to address and discourage such attacks.