JULY 1st, 2023 | NICK EDWARD

Stop Using Pride As A Political Weapon

The weaponization of gay and trans rights has harmed the movement.

In recent years, a concerning trend I call “pride-smearing” has emerged, where media and political opponents indirectly shame public figures and businesses for choosing not to participate in pride events. A recent example, in which Conservative leader Pierre Poilievre was criticized by the media for not attending a ceremony to raise a Pride flag on Parliament Hill, highlights this ongoing trend. By weaponizing pride, media and political activists are creating a more intolerant and less inclusive environment for everyone.

It's important to recognize that participation in pride events is a personal choice and that smearing individuals for their decision not to partake undermines the principles of freedom and the ideals of personal identity espoused by the LGBTQ+ community.

There is no better way to turn people against Pride than by politicizing and weaponizing gay and trans rights.

The Importance Of Personal Autonomy

Respecting personal autonomy and freedom of choice is crucial in a democratic society. Individuals have the right to decide which events align with their beliefs and values. Pride smearing, which seeks to shame individuals for not participating in pride events, overlooks this fundamental right. It is essential to acknowledge and honor the choices individuals make regarding their own involvement in such events.

Diversity Of Perspectives And Approaches

Society is composed of individuals with diverse backgrounds, perspectives, and beliefs. It's unrealistic to expect universal participation in any event, including pride celebrations. Just as people have different ways of supporting causes, they may choose alternative means to express solidarity with the LGBTQ+ community. In some cases, it is their right to not show solidarity at all. It is important to recognize and respect this diversity of approaches, as it enriches the fabric of society and fosters inclusive dialogue.

Avoiding Assumptions And Stereotypes

Shaming individuals for not participating in pride events can lead to unfair assumptions and stereotypes. Attendance at a specific event should not be the sole measure of one's support for any specific cause. It is vital to consider the various ways in which people show their support, such as through advocacy, education, private engagement, or personal relationships. Passing judgment based solely on public appearances overlooks the sincerity and complexity of an individual's convictions on any set of beliefs.

The Danger Of Coercion And Conformity

Forcing individuals to participate in pride events contradicts the principles of choice and personal identity. Pride should be about empowering individuals to embrace their unique identities, not about coercing conformity. A society that values diversity should allow individuals the space to express themselves genuinely and choose their own paths of support, whether they are public figures or private citizens. Political parties should not be forced to associate or participate in any event their members may find controversial or unnecessary.

Encouraging Constructive Dialogue

Rather than engaging in pride-smearing, promoting constructive dialogue is a more effective approach to bridge gaps and foster understanding. Respectful conversations can help people appreciate different perspectives and reasons behind individual choices. By encouraging dialogue, media and politicians could create an environment where diverse viewpoints are respected and where judgments are replaced by empathy and understanding.

The Weaponization Of Pride

What media and political parties have been doing is not productive or conducive to civilized, respectful discourse. Shaming individuals for not participating in pride events undermines the principles of freedom, choice and personal identity. Recognizing and respecting personal autonomy is crucial in a democratic society. People should be able to decide for themselves which events align with their beliefs and values without fear of public scrutiny or condemnation. By embracing diversity of perspectives and fostering constructive dialogue, we can create a society that respects personal choices, celebrates individual identities and promotes inclusivity for everyone.

Media, activists and politicians need to stop using pride as a political weapon.

Weaponizing pride poses significant dangers to society. Pride events are meant to be inclusive platforms for the LGBTQ community to celebrate their identities and advocate for equal rights. However, when pride becomes a political tool, its true purpose can be overshadowed or distorted. By using pride as a weapon in political discourse, it risks reducing a vibrant and diverse movement to a mere symbol for scoring political points. This instrumentalization can lead to the exploitation of the LGBTQ community's struggles and dilute the genuine progress and support that should be at the core of the movement. Additionally, it can create a divisive environment where identity politics takes precedence over substantive discussions on policies and issues affecting all members of society.

By depoliticizing pride and focusing on fostering inclusivity and respect, we can work towards a society where LGBTQ rights are protected without sacrificing the principles of democracy and the fair representation of all people, no matter their views.