Recently, MP Anthony Rota made an exciting announcement regarding the allocation of funding for four programs aimed at benefiting seniors in the North Bay area.
This funding initiative aims to provide much-needed support and resources to the elderly population. With these programs in place, seniors will have access to essential services and opportunities that enhance their quality of life.
This announcement demonstrates a commitment to prioritize the well-being and welfare of all our senior citizens. It is heartening to see government officials taking proactive measures to ensure that seniors receive the care and attention they deserve. This funding will undoubtedly make a positive impact on the lives of countless seniors and foster a more inclusive and supportive society for all generations.
It is unfortunate that hateful comments were made regarding the funding allocation for North Bay Pride, which aimed to support older individuals belonging to the 2SLGBTQ+ community. The selective criticism and double standards displayed by those who complained about this particular funding while celebrating or remaining silent about the other three organizations receiving funding raises several questions.
It highlights the importance of promoting inclusivity and equality for all individuals, regardless of their background or identity. It is essential to recognize and support initiatives that address the unique needs and challenges faced by different communities, including older members of the 2SLGBTQ+ community. By fostering an environment of understanding and acceptance, we can work towards a more inclusive society that values and respects the rights and well-being of all its members.
This is what many now refer to as covert hate, which refers to subtle or hidden forms of hate or discrimination. Covert hate can be challenging to address and identify, as it may not be overt or explicit in nature. It often manifests through implicit biases, microaggressions, or subtle acts of exclusion or discrimination. Recognizing and addressing covert hate requires all of us to call it out.
So again, I am calling it out.
Discriminatory comments or actions, even if disguised as constructive criticism or framed with disclaimers, can still perpetuate bigotry and prejudice. Treating one particular group differently while praising or remaining silent about others is indeed a form of discrimination and reflects a biased perspective. It is important to challenge these double standards and recognize that treating any group unfairly based on their identity is discriminatory. Claiming not to be prejudiced while making discriminatory comments does not change the fact that the remarks are still harmful and perpetuate harmful stereotypes.
Some of you have said in your comments, this money would be better spent on our Vets. Or the Homeless. The commenters say this like somehow there are 2SLGBTQ+ community vets or homeless. Does anyone remember the LGBT Purge by chance?
Raising important points regarding the intersectionality of identities and the diverse challenges faced by different communities. It is crucial to recognize that individuals can belong to multiple communities simultaneously, and their needs and experiences are shaped by the overlapping aspects of their identities.
In the context of veterans, it is important to acknowledge that there are veterans who are part of the 2SLGBTQ+ community and have experienced discrimination, including during events like the 2SLGBTQ+ purge. It is essential to provide support and resources that address the specific needs of 2SLGBTQ+ veterans and work towards rectifying past injustices especially those that identify as being part of the 2SLGBTQ+ community.
Similarly, homelessness is a significant issue affecting various communities, including older individuals. Homelessness can impact individuals from the 2SLGBTQ+ community as well. Recognizing this, it is important to address homelessness comprehensively, ensuring that appropriate resources and services are available to support older individuals from all backgrounds, including those who identify as 2SLGBTQ+.
If you are starting a comment with disclaimers such as "I am not homophobic, but..." or similar statements can often lead to bigoted or discriminatory remarks. Let's just STOP doing it. It's not hard, you learned to be a bigot, and you can unlearn it too. Denying someone's identity or using discriminatory language is indeed not a difference of opinion but rather an act that perpetuates harm and inequality.
Promoting understanding, empathy, and respect for all individuals, regardless of their identity, is crucial in fostering a more inclusive and accepting society.
By being thoughtful about our words and actions, we can contribute to creating a world where bigotry and discrimination are actively challenged and marginalized communities are treated with dignity and equality. This is the world I want to live in. And you should too.
