Alberta human rights hearing begins over anti-Pride flyers

An eight-day human rights hearing has commenced in Alberta regarding flyers distributed by Westlock resident Benita Pedersen in June 2023. The flyers, which opposed the installation of a rainbow crosswalk incorporating transgender pride colors, contained language regarding transgender ideology and medical transitions.

The complaint was filed by Laurie Hodge, alleging the publications violated the Alberta Human Rights Act through discrimination based on gender expression and identity. Legal counsel for the Alberta Human Rights Commission stated the flyers contained harmful narratives and misinformation, seeking damages between $2,500 and $35,000, as well as orders for Pedersen to refrain from hate speech and undergo human rights training.

Pedersen’s legal team, supported by the Justice Centre for Constitutional Freedoms, argues she was exercising her freedom of speech to warn parents about the risks of medical transitions. The tribunal expects to hear testimony from up to 15 witnesses, including expert evidence regarding gender dysphoria and medical care.