College and University Students Fight Homophobia and Transphobia in Ontario

Ontario’s students are fighting discrimination against young gay, lesbian and transgender students. The Canadian Federation of Students-Ontario has partnered with the Lesbian Gay Bi Trans Youth Line to launch a campaign on college and university campuses across the province.

“This campaign aims to empower students and youth by giving them the tools to create change on their own campuses and in their communities,” said Bernice Chau, Outreach Coordinator for the Lesbian Gay Bi Trans Youth Line.

“Students and youth are already the leaders driving real on the ground change. Investing in and supporting youth is a powerful move against homophobia and transphobia.”

The campaign includes a public service announcement, as well as tools that help students take the fight to their own campuses. They can download a comprehensive campus guide that includes legal information, local resources, campaigning tips and other resources and for organizing anti-homophobia and anti-transphobia initiatives.

“When students study in unsafe spaces, their access to quality education is compromised,” said Rodney Diverlus, Queer and Trans Commissioner for the Canadian Federation of Students-Ontario and President of the Ryerson Students’ Union.

“Bullying, discriminatory language, lack of queer and trans positive spaces on campus and physical violence make our campuses unsafe for everyone.”