Mise à jour de l'auteur
Montreal, May 5, 2025 – This May 17 will mark the 23rd edition of the International Day Against Homophobia and Transphobia. To raise public awareness on this important day, Fondation Émergence is launching its campaign, “The Ally Effect,” aimed at recognizing and mobilizing allies in the fight against LGBTQ+phobia. Driven by the slogan “Every Ally Counts,” the campaign highlights the tangible impact of collective support at a time when LGBTQ+ rights are increasingly under threat. Through this initiative, the organization seeks to underscore the vital role of solidarity in advancing inclusion and recognition for people of diverse sexual orientations and gender identities.
In a context of rising hate speech and legislative setbacks, Fondation Émergence reminds us that no voice should bear the defense of human rights alone.
“Last year, we warned about the setbacks. Today, they are very real — both internationally and here in Canada. More than ever, every ally counts. Every gesture, every statement, every act of support truly makes a difference,” says Laurent Breault, Executive Director of Fondation Émergence.
A Worrying Decline in Tolerance
For decades, progress in LGBTQ+ rights has been driven by the mobilization of the communities themselves and their allies. Today, data shows a worrying decline in public support. According to an Ipsos survey conducted between 2021 and 2023 across 30 countries, support for same-sex couples' rights has decreased in Canada. Furthermore, the proportion of Canadians opposed to same-sex couples having the same adoption rights as heterosexual couples has increased. This trend points to a decline in active support for LGBTQ+ rights. The situation is particularly troubling among young people. A report by GRIS Montréal reveals that the level of discomfort young Quebecers feel toward the idea of having a gay or lesbian best friend has doubled in recent years
The Importance of Awareness
However, people who know someone in the LGBTQ+ community or who have been exposed to awareness campaigns—such as those held on May 17—tend to have a more positive perception of LGBTQ+ realities and are more likely to speak out against disrespectful comments or actions. For instance, 45% of individuals familiar with the International Day Against Homophobia and Transphobia have taken a stand, compared to just 25% of the general population
Igniting a Movement
In this spirit, Fondation Émergence invites the public to show their support at allyeffect.ca, where individuals can express their solidarity, contribute to a collective counter, and explore exclusive content that reflects the essence of the movement. Under the symbol of the sun, a cloud, and rain, the Foundation aims to spark a true movement of solidarity to mark May 17.
Just as there can be no rainbow without both rain and sun, true inclusion cannot exist without the active presence of allies. The organization is calling on allies to proudly stand alongside LGBTQ+ communities. To amplify this movement, allies have been invited to speak out and remind us that the majority chooses solidarity, respect, and inclusion. Through their commitment, they help inspire a collective movement strong enough to push back against intolerance.
Let’s march together
As part of the May 17 activities, Fondation Émergence is organizing a large-scale citizen march in the heart of Montreal. The gathering is scheduled for 2:00 p.m. at the Quartier des Spectacles, at the corner of Maisonneuve and Jeanne-Mance, near the Place-des-Arts metro station. The public is strongly encouraged to join this event in large numbers to send a clear, collective message: setbacks in rights and inclusion cannot be tolerated.
About Fondation Émergence
For the past 25 years, Fondation Émergence has been actively working toward the inclusion of LGBTQ+ individuals by offering awareness, training, and support services. It also organizes major events such as the International Day Against Homophobia and Transphobia, which it initiated, and the Gala Émergence. Through its actions, it continues its mission to inform and raise awareness among the public about the realities faced by LGBTQ+ people.
