| Message from QMUNITY: To our community, At the center of this week’s news are real people and a real community in grief. We are thinking of the families and loved ones in Tumbler Ridge as they face the days ahead. In moments like this, it is natural to feel grief, anger, confusion, and concern all at once. It is also natural to wonder how best to respond. After thoughtful conversations with peer organizations across the country, we have made an intentional decision not to issue reactive public statements about the identity of the individual involved. Here is why. We have learned over time that when organizations move quickly to counter a perceived threat, we can sometimes unintentionally amplify the very narrative we are hoping to disrupt. When identity becomes the headline, even in defense, it risks reinforcing the harmful idea that a person’s gender is somehow explanatory of violence. So far, Canadian officials and most media coverage have been measured and responsible. Reporting has remained focused on the tragedy itself, including broader conversations around public safety and mental health. We believe that is important. We do not want to shift attention in a way that centers identity rather than the lives lost and the community grieving. At the same time, we are mindful that comment sections and online spaces can take a different turn. We know that trans people may feel exposed or vulnerable in moments like this. Our focus is simple. We are here to reaffirm dignity and reinforce belonging. We are here to ensure that trans people feel supported, safe, and connected. We are here to strengthen community spaces grounded in care rather than reaction. If the broader climate changes in ways that require a different response, we will reassess. Leadership sometimes means speaking, and it also sometimes means choosing steadiness. For now, the most meaningful thing we can do is extend care and provide tangible support to one another. Check in with one another. Resist narratives that harm. Hold space for grief without allowing it to turn into stigma. QMUNITY remains here. Our programs and services continue, and our doors remain open. If you need support or connection, please reach out to us at reception@qmunity.ca. In Solidarity, Michael Robach (he/him)Interim Executive Directormichael.robach@qmunity.ca |
| QMUNITY acknowledges the territories of First Nations around B.C. and is grateful to carry out our work on these lands. We acknowledge the rights, interests, priorities, and concerns of all Indigenous Peoples – First Nations, Métis, Inuit, and Two-Spirit – respecting and acknowledging their distinct cultures, histories, rights, laws, and governments. QMUNITY acknowledges the ongoing consequences of colonization that disproportionately harm Indigenous queer, trans and Two-Spirit people. |
