(Adrian St.Onge/CHAT News)

By Adrian St.Onge

Medicine Hat LGBTQ+ community rallies to support vulnerable youth at city hall

Mar 4, 2024 | 4:29 PM

Medicine Hat’s LGBTQ+ community braved the cold on Saturday to rally in support of the youth who they perceive are under persecution by the Alberta government’s proposed gender policy changes.

Over 70 people of all ages attended with dozens of vehicles show their support by honking their horns.

Organizer Kim Large said all minors will be affected by the policy changes, should they be adopted into law.

Large said that various advocacy groups have been outspoken about the policy changes and that everyone has a small part in stopping the stigma surrounding a marginalized group.

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“Just speak up,” Large said.

“Shut down the minor instances of homophobia or transphobia that you may see in the world,” she said.

“Jokes, humour, things like that. Just be kind, be good humans. These are people who are valid, worthy and just want to exist like everyone else.”

Large said that further rallies are planned in the spring and summer.

Large’s husband Ashley stood up and walked out of a February town hall featuring Premier Danielle Smith in protest over Smith’s proposed gender policies.

The proposed parental consent changes are slated to be presented before the legislative assembly this fall.