TESA's PRIDE MONTH 2025 STATEMENT

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE – Tuesday, June 3, 2025 -- ALBERTA

TESA's PRIDE MONTH 2025 STATEMENT
 
The Trans Equality Society of Alberta (TESA), has been a voice and witness for all matters concerning trans Albertans since 2009 and we are aware that trans Albertans are very concerned about how these proposed changes will impact them.
 
June 1 marks the beginning of Pride Month, and TESA proudly stands with everyone celebrating in the ways they can — whether loudly or quietly, publicly or privately.

But we also need to speak honestly about what’s happening in Alberta.

The provincial government wants the public to believe they support trans and queer rights. They issued a Pride Month statement and will raise a flag in Edmonton. But behind the rainbow optics, they’re actively undermining our community’s safety and visibility.

Just days ago, the government announced new rules targeting school library books — specifically, graphic novels that feature 2SLGBTQI+ characters and coming-of-age stories. "These stories aren’t dangerous. Erasing them is. You can’t raise a flag in the morning and ban our stories by the afternoon", said TESA President, April Friesen.

Books help queer and trans students see themselves, understand themselves, and find connection. Banning these books does nothing but isolate and erase them.
True support is not symbolic. It means protecting our youth, not pushing them into silence.

"TESA, we remain committed to being a safe space — a place where 2SLGBTQI+ people can find support, affirmation, and strength. Every day, in every corner of this beautiful province we live in — including for those who are Two-Spirit and part of Turtle Island — we will keep working to ensure that everyone has the right to be themselves, fully and freely", stated Friesen.

TESA will be continuing to watch to see what the government does, says and moves forward with, so that we can make additional comments when they will impact trans Albertans.

More information about TESA can be found at 
https://www.tesaonline.org

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