Quebec LGBTQ+ candidates report surge in online hate

LGBTQ+ political candidates in Quebec are reporting an "exceptional" and "alarming" wave of online hate and threats ahead of the provincial elections.

Roxane Milot, president of Québec solidaire, stated that the surge in online violence targeting sexual and gender-diverse candidates is making it increasingly difficult to recruit diverse individuals for political roles. Milot noted that the situation is worsening daily, according to local LGBTQ+ organizations.

Philippe Schnobb, a Parti Québécois candidate, reported receiving frequent homophobic remarks and physical threats on social media. He noted a sharp increase in such behavior since entering politics compared to his previous professional roles.

The surge in hostility has already impacted political campaigns; Vanessa Durand, a former Québec solidaire candidate, recently withdrew from her race after posting hateful comments online regarding LGBTQ+ supporters of the Parti Québécois.