Members of the PEERS Alliance have returned to Prince Edward Island following their participation with 45 other Canadian groups in Ottawa to urge the federal government to extend its 2SLGBTQI+ Action Plan. Josie Baker, the executive director of the PEERS Alliance, expressed satisfaction with the positive impact of the action plan on the Island community since its launch in 2022, aiming to promote the rights and equality of 2SLGBTQI+ individuals.
As the plan is approaching its expiration date in March, PEERS Alliance, among others, gathered at Parliament Hill to advocate for the renewal and expansion of the plan during the Queer Day of Action on October 6. Baker emphasized the crucial role of Canada as a global leader in 2SLGBTQI+ rights and called on the federal government to demonstrate leadership by continuing to support these communities.
Baker highlighted the influence of U.S. politics on Canadian opinions and stressed the importance of not becoming complacent but rather maintaining vigilance to uphold existing rights and laws for the 2SLGBTQI+ community. She commended Prince Edward Island for its supportive laws and policies and expressed concerns about potential capacity loss in local organizations if the action plan is not extended.
The potential loss of funding from the federal action plan could directly impact programs offered by PEERS Alliance, particularly those supporting families of transgender youth. Despite challenges, Baker emphasized the organization’s determination to adapt and ensure continued service delivery. The advocacy efforts on Parliament Hill aimed to secure ongoing provincial and federal investments to sustain their work.
Baker conveyed optimism about the continuation of funding commitments following encouraging signals from Ottawa. She emphasized the collective efforts of various groups nationwide working together to advocate for the cause and engage with local MPs to stress the significance of their work for Islanders and all Canadians. The commitment to this cause remains unwavering, with a united coalition of organizations striving to uphold the rights and support for the 2SLGBTQI+ community across the country.