Alberta Premier, UCP 2024 Pride celebrations banned

More than a dozen 2SLGBTQ+ groups in Alberta are banning Premier Danielle Smith and the United Conservative Party (UCP) from attending Pride 2024 events.

A social media post by Queer Citizens United (QCU) has the signatures of 14 Pride organizers, including Calgary Pride, Edmonton Pride Corner, Lethbridge Pride and Banff Pride.

The QCU says the decision stems from Smith's “desire to attack the rights, freedoms and health of the transgender community in Alberta.”

“His policies that do not reflect the preferences of the gender and sexuality diverse community run counter to established medical practices governing transgender health care and pose a real threat to the safety and well-being of our community,” the statement said.

“Given that not a single UCP MP disagrees with this proposed policy, we must extend our decision to the entire UCP caucus.”

“When you plan to attack us in September, you may not join our celebrations in June.”

QCU will then ask Smith to review the policies proposed in the legislature in the fall and engage in meaningful discussions with 2SLQBTQIA+ communities.

Smith's decision in late January drew backlash from dozens of advocates, researchers and politicians across Canada, who say the proposed bill contains some of the most restrictive anti-transgender provisions in the country.

The premier said the province will require parental consent for students under 15 who want to change their name or names at school, and said 16- and 17-year-olds do not need consent, but their parents must be informed.

The province also plans to introduce gender-affirmation procedures, gender and sexuality guidelines at school and restrictions on transgender women's participation in sports.

According to the Prime Minister, this decision was taken after negotiations with the UCP caucus.

In response to the ban, the UCP says it supports and celebrates all Albertans and will “continue to work to ensure everyone feels valued, respected and at home in Alberta.”

CityNews has reached out to the Prime Minister's Office for comment.

With files from Logan Stein, Phil Wood and Lorin Heinz