BC Election Candidate Survey Response: Martin Kendell - Independent
Advocacy Canada reached out to all candidates in the 2024 BC election, inviting them to share their positions on key issues affecting the 2SLGBTQIA+ community. This blog series highlights the responses received by the deadline of October 6, 2024, offering insights into where candidates stand on matters of equality, inclusion, and rights for the 2SLGBTQIA+ community. This content is provided for educational purposes and this is not a candidate endorsement from Advocacy Canada.
Name
Select your political party
Select your electoral district
Will you advocate to strengthen anti-discrimination laws protecting the 2SLGBTQIA+ community in British Columbia?
Please provide details on any specific policies or initiatives you would propose.
Comprehensive Legislation Review: Conduct a thorough review of existing laws to identify gaps in protections for the 2SLGBTQIA+ community. This includes evaluating the effectiveness of the Human Rights Code and updating it to reflect contemporary understandings of gender identity and sexual orientation.
Enhanced Education and Training: Implement mandatory training programs for law enforcement, healthcare providers, and educators on 2SLGBTQIA+ issues to foster understanding and reduce discrimination.
Support for Community Organizations: Increase funding for organizations that provide support and advocacy for the 2SLGBTQIA+ community. This includes mental health services, legal aid, and outreach programs.
Data Collection and Research: Mandate the collection of disaggregated data on discrimination and violence against the 2SLGBTQIA+ community to inform policy decisions. This data should guide resource allocation and program development.
Stronger Reporting Mechanisms: Establish clearer and more accessible reporting mechanisms for incidents of discrimination or hate crimes. This includes creating a dedicated hotline and online platform for victims to report incidents and receive support.
Legal Protections for Non-Binary Individuals: Ensure that non-binary individuals have legal recognition and protections under the law. This includes allowing for a non-binary option on government identification and forms.
Partnerships with Indigenous Communities: Collaborate with Indigenous leaders to address the unique challenges faced by 2SLGBTQIA+ Indigenous individuals, ensuring that their voices are included in policy development.
These initiatives would create a more supportive environment for the 2SLGBTQIA+ community in British Columbia, addressing systemic discrimination and promoting equity.
Do you plan to improve access to healthcare services specifically tailored for the 2SLGBTQIA+ community, including mental health support and gender-affirming care?
Please describe any specific actions or reforms you would implement.
Expanded Mental Health Services: Increase funding for mental health resources specifically tailored for the 2SLGBTQIA+ community, including crisis hotlines and support groups that focus on issues like coming out, identity struggles, and relationship challenges.
Inclusive Policies: Develop and enforce policies that prohibit discrimination in healthcare settings based on gender identity and sexual orientation, ensuring a safe environment for all patients.
Education and Outreach: Implement outreach programs to raise awareness about available services.
By implementing these reforms, we can create a more inclusive and supportive healthcare environment that addresses the unique needs of the 2SLGBTQIA+ community.
Will you take steps to ensure that schools in British Columbia provide an inclusive and safe environment for 2SLGBTQIA+ students?
Detail any programs or policies you would support to promote inclusivity in education.
SOGI 123 is an essential element in creating safe and inclusive classrooms for all students regardless of their sexual orientation, gender identity, race, ethnicity, or religious beliefs.
Explain your rating of the question on SOGI 123.
Will you address the housing and homelessness issues disproportionately affecting the 2SLGBTQIA+ community?
Outline any specific strategies or housing programs you would endorse.
Will you work to combat hate crimes and violence against the 2SLGBTQIA+ community?
Provide details on your approach to reducing hate crimes and ensuring justice for victims.
Will you support increased funding for 2SLGBTQIA+ community organizations and services?
Please elaborate on your funding priorities for these organizations.
Will you promote public awareness and education to foster acceptance and understanding of the 2SLGBTQIA+ community?
Detail any campaigns or educational initiatives you would support or propose.
Will you ensure that your policies and initiatives address the diverse needs within the 2SLGBTQIA+ community, including those intersecting with other marginalized identities (e.g., race, disability, socioeconomic status)?
Describe your approach to creating inclusive and intersectional policies.
The BC Office of the Human Rights Commissioner’s report “From Hate to Hope” includes several recommendations to address hate and discrimination. Will you work to implement these recommendations, particularly those affecting the 2SLGBTQIA+ community?
Please specify which recommendations from the Commissioner’s report you will prioritize and how you plan to implement them.
2SLGBTQIA+ seniors face unique needs as they age, particularly in the areas of specialized healthcare, assisted living where they are free to live authentically, and affordable housing. Will you work to implement specific policies and programs to address these unique needs?
Please specify how you will address the unique needs of 2SLGBTQIA+ seniors.
