New polling conducted for Global News has found that while Canadians generally support LGBTQ2S+ people and issues, they are less likely to engage in behaviors that demonstrate true allyship for the community. According to the poll conducted by Ipsos, only one-in-ten Canadians consider themselves to be active allies to the queer community. However, almost half of Canadians express some support, either considering themselves active allies or engaging members of the community or supporting the LGBTQ2S+ community without active allyship.
The polling also revealed a say-do gap, with less than half of those polled stating that they are likely to engage in active forms of support such as signing petitions, speaking up against homophobic or transphobic comments online, or attending rallies in support of the queer community. Darrell Bricker, CEO of Ipsos, explains that this softening of support may be due to a live-and-let-live perspective, as well as fears of potential backlash in an increasingly hostile environment for the queer community.
Kojo Modeste, the executive director at Pride Toronto, highlights the dangers of silence from allies, as it allows hatred and opposition towards the queer community to thrive. Carmen Logie, Canada research chair in Global Health Equity, emphasizes the need for education on difficult issues and the importance of open conversations to foster allyship. Logie also stresses the importance of active support year-round, rather than just during Pride Month.
The poll found that women and young Canadians are more likely to show meaningful support for the LGBTQ2S+ community. Additionally, Canadians with higher levels of education tend to show higher levels of support. However, support varies across the country, with Quebec and Atlantic Canada being the most likely to speak up against homophobia and transphobia, while Albertans are the least likely to do so.
Modeste argues that allyship requires taking risks and that silence only provides more ammunition to those attacking the queer community. He urges allies to stand up against hate, which sends a message of support to the community, intolerance towards bigotry, and accountability to Canadian politicians.
Despite discouraging polling numbers, Logie remains hopeful and believes that Canadians will increasingly speak up for the LGBTQ2S+ community. She emphasizes the importance of stepping outside of echo chambers, educating oneself on gender, sexuality, and queer identity issues, and finding unique ways to show support as an ally, whether through education, volunteering, or attending events.
In conclusion, while Canadian support for the LGBTQ2S+ community is generally positive, the poll highlights the need for more active allyship and a greater willingness to engage in behaviors that demonstrate support.
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