Bryan May - Liberal Party
Thank you so much for reaching out to my campaign.
As a Member of Parliament and a community member, I've always supported the rights of our 2SLGBTQI+ community.
The Liberal Party of Canada will always stand with and advocate for the 2SLGBQTI+ community. The unique needs and perspectives of diverse groups are considered in all we do, and we continue to be committed to
enhancing inclusion, combating discrimination, and promoting equity through various programs and grants designed to help empower members for of the 2SLGBTQI+ community.
Since 2015, the Government of Canada has funded 2SLGBTQI+ advocacy, invested in projects and programs, and introduced legislation to fight discrimination and hate. When I was promoted to the Parliamentary Secretary for the Minister of Small Business, I was proud to lead initiatives such as women, Black, and S2LGBTQI+ entrepreneurship programs, which were viewed through an intersectional lens.
Additionally, we have partnered with key organizations across Canada that work closely with 2SLGBTQI+ communities, particularly vulnerable youth, to support access to mental health resources, prevent and address violence, and promote safe and inclusive communities. In 2022, the Government of Canada launched the Federal 2SLGBTQI+ Action Plan, which outlines Canada's plans to advance rights and equity for our Two-Spirit, lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, intersex and additional sexually and gender diverse peoples in Canada. In accordance with this Action Plan, in my capacity as Parliamentary Secretary for the Minister of National Defence, I visited military bases and oversaw the implementation of equity, diversity, and inclusion policy.
That same year, Health Canada ended the ban on blood donations from gay men, and in 2023, Canada's Department of Justice amended the criminal code to ban conversion therapy. The Liberal Party of Canada respects all gender identities and sexual orientations, and defends the rights of all members of the 2SLGBTQI+. 
Furthermore, under Liberal leadership, Canada's advocacy for the 2SLGBTQI+ extends beyond domestic forums, promoting inclusivity and human rights within bilateral, multilateral, and international spaces, such as the United Nations and beyond.
Unfortunately, there are elected officials who want to turn back the clock on the progress our government has made on these issues, but Liberals know that 2SLGBTQI+ rights are human rights, and a Liberal government will continue to stand up for those values. I will always stand up for those values.
Under Liberal leadership, 2SLGBTQI+ voices will continue to be heard.

Connie Cody - Conservative Party
No response yet.

Jose de Lima - New Democratic Party
Thank you for reaching out and creating these opportunities for our community to learn and engage civically as we prepare for the federal election on April 28th.
I want to start by recognizing that for time immemorial Two-Spirit individuals have held, loved, cared for and stewarded the lands known as the Region of Waterloo in the current day. And as we fight for 2SLGBTQIA+ rights and belonging, and Indigenous justice in our community it is imperative that we recognize our collective commitment to building communities, and electing governments that understand the needs for Indigenous and Queer justice.
Creating inclusion and safety for the 2SLGBTQIA+ community is something I hold close to my heart as a Queer person running for office myself.
The NDP will never stop fighting for the rights of queer and trans Canadians. At a time when Donald Trump is threatening the sovereignty of our country and while we watch the roll-back of human rights around the world, now more than ever we must recommit to upholding the freedom and equality of our community.
1. Advocating for Inclusive Policies: I will push to ensure that gender identity and expression are included as prohibited grounds for discrimination in the Canada Human Rights Act.
2. Supporting Mental Health Services: I will work to increase funding for mental health programs specifically tailored to the needs of 2SLGBTQ+ youth and adults.
3. Promoting Education and Awareness, while fighting for our schools to be safe spaces for all students. Join the community in action and protest against the motion to ban Pride-flags in WCDSB buildings.
4. Access to comprehensive gender-affirming healthcare, and stable capacity funding for lifesaving mental health supports, like the Trans lifeline.
I look forward to working together both during the campaign period, and after the election to increase 2SLGBTQIA+ inclusion and belonging in the Region of Waterloo.

Lux Burgess - Green Party
Thanks for reaching out, and great question! One of many reasons I've chosen to represent the Green Party in this election is because of their commitment to stand up for all marginalized communities. I stand firmly behind this commitment, and would do my best to listen to those of the 2SLGBTQ+ community to learn how best I could support them in Cambridge.
Some examples of this might be:
- Combating Discrimination and Bullying - The Green Party supports the creation of stronger criminal laws to deter bullying and cyberbullying, particularly those targeting LGBTQ+ individuals.
- Addressing Historical Injustices - The Green Party has criticized  amendments to the Expungement of Historically Unjust Convictions Act for excluding sex workers and members of the 2SLGBTQIA+ community. They emphasized the need to decriminalize prostitution and develop regulations to protect sex workers, many of whom are part of the LGBTQ+ community
- Stopping Hate and Discrimination: The Green Party has committed to fighting all forms of hate and discrimination to make Canada a safer and more welcoming place for everyone.

Manuel Couto - Marxist-Leninist Party
A contact for Manuel has not yet been identified.

Brian Adeba - Liberal Party
As you know, the Liberal Party of Canada is the Canadian Political Party of the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms. The Liberals are the Party who included the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms in the Constitution Act of 1982. The Liberal Party of Canada continues to stand by the Charter and defend its values. The Liberal Party of Canada stands for multiculturalism, and all the non-discrimination categories of Section 15. The Liberal Party will not reduce Charter Rights and Freedoms by using the Notwithstanding Clause.
So, as your representative I will be happy to stand with my colleagues in the Liberal Party of Canada to support equality for Trans and sexually diverse Canadians included in the LGBT+ banner as well as women in sports. I would also support funding for these worthy causes.
Thank you again for this opportunity. I look forward to working with you as we continue to build our great nation. Canada Strong!

Ellen Papenburg - Animal Protection Party
As a former Unitarian Lay-Chaplain the cause of 2SLGBTQ+ people is close to my heart. I will always stand on the side of love.
What is happening South of our border is deplorable, if that would happen here, we will fight against that.
Even though the APPC's main focus is the terrible circumstances of animals, who are mostly forgotten, and the nasty effect of eating animal products has on the climate, we will never forget to fight for human rights.
If in the very unlikely case I would be elected, you would always be welcome with any concerns, which could be addressed federally. 

Heather Zaleski - New Democratic Party
A contact for Heather has not yet been identified.

Kelly DeRidder - Conservative Party
No response yet.

Margaretha Dyck - United Party
A contact for Margaretha has not yet been identified.

Mike Morrice - Green Party
Regardless of what happens in this election, I will continue to stand up for and alongside the 2SLGBTQ+ community in Waterloo Region. If re-elected as the MP for Kitchener Centre, I will continue to use the national platform and legislative tools available to an MP to amplify and strengthen this advocacy. In my time as an MP to-date, this has included sponsoring a petition for trans asylum seekers that garnered over 160,000 signatures back in 2022, to lifting up Queer Momentum’s call for the federal government do more to protect the queer community in the face of Trump’s attacks.
As an MP, I will always be there to support and amplify the rights and priorities of the queer community in Waterloo Region.

Wasai Rahimi - People's Party
No response yet.

Doug Treleaven - Conservative Party
No response yet.

Kevin Dupuis - People's Party
No response yet.

Maya Bozorgzad - New Democratic Party
Protecting and affirming the 2SLGBTQ+ community is a priority for me. Everyone deserves to feel safe, valued, supported, and loved.
If elected, I will be a staunch advocate for increased funding for community organizations that provide essential support, mental health resources, and safe spaces for 2SLGBTQ+ community members. These local organizations are critical and play a vital role in fostering inclusion and offering resources for those of all ages facing discrimination or isolation.
I also believe in ensuring accessible, gender-affirming healthcare for all. That means pushing for federal funding to improve access to services like hormone therapy, mental health support, and transition-related care. No one should have to travel far or face long wait times for the care they need.
It is important to me that 2SLGBTQ+ youth feel supported both in the community and in schools. This means working with the province to promote inclusive education programs and anti-bullying initiatives. It’s important that all students feel seen and valued in their learning environments. Recent events, like the motion to ban symbols like the Pride flag at the Waterloo Region Catholic School Board, are deeply concerning and highlight the ongoing challenges faced by the 2SLGBTQ+ community. Symbols of inclusion and acceptance matter, and actions like these are disheartening in proving we are not moving in the right direction. As your representative, I will stand firmly against this and work to ensure that all members of our community feel valued, supported, and safe.
Finally, I will always remain committed to being accessible and actively listening to the 2SLGBTQ+ community about the issues that matter most to them. I want every member of our community to feel comfortable reaching out to me directly to share their experiences and ideas on how our government and local initiatives can better support and uplift them. Your voices will always be heard and valued.
I’m committed to working alongside the 2SLGBTQ+ community to build a safer and more inclusive region where we can all thrive.

Tim Louis - Liberal Party
If re-elected, I am committed to continuing my unwavering support for the 2SLGBTQ+ community in Waterloo Region and across Canada. Over the years, I have made it a priority to actively engage with and advocate for the community, and I will continue to do so with passion and dedication.
I have already taken several steps to affirm and protect the rights of 2SLGBTQ+ individuals. I have participated in flag-raising both on Parliament Hill in Ottawa and here in Kitchener-Conestoga, demonstrating my support at both the federal and local levels.
Over the years, I’ve consistently attended Tri-Pride in Waterloo Region, and I was honoured to attend Woolwich Pride as well. These events are not just a celebration; they are a vital reminder of the strength and resilience of the 2SLGBTQ+ community, and I will continue to support them in every way I can.
Since 2016, the Government of Canada has committed over $250 million to advance rights and equality for 2SLGBTQI+ communities.
Additionally, I hosted an open town hall with Spectrum Waterloo Region, where members of the 2SLGBTQ+ community and allies could come together and ask questions in a safe and welcoming space. This was an opportunity for people to share their concerns, seek guidance, and build a stronger connection within the community.
If re-elected, I will continue to ensure that the voices of 2SLGBTQ+ individuals in Waterloo Region are heard. I will work tirelessly to push for stronger protections against discrimination, to advocate for inclusive policies, and to ensure that every member of our community feels safe, supported, and celebrated.
We need leadership that not only supports but actively stands with the 2SLGBTQ+ community. You can count on me to continue that fight.

Ethan Russell - Green Party
No response yet.

Matt Straus - Conservative Party
No response yet.

Lorne Bruce - New Democratic Party
A contact for Lorne has not yet been identified.

Kathleen Dueck - United Party
A contact for Kathleen has not yet been identified.

Randy Williams - People's Party
When it comes to Rights, you have no more and no less rights than every other Canadian. I will defend the Canadian Constitution and the Charter. That is a promise.
Who does the Charter protect and what rights are protected?
Any person in Canada – whether they are a Canadian citizen, a permanent resident or a newcomer – has the rights and freedoms contained in the Charter. There are some exceptions. For example, the Charter gives some rights only to Canadian citizens – such as the right to vote (section 3) and the right “to enter, remain in and leave Canada” (section 6).
Equality rights – section 15
Equality before and under law and equal protection and benefit of law
15. (1) Every individual is equal before and under the law and has the right to the equal protection and equal benefit of the law without discrimination and, in particular, without discrimination based on race, national or ethnic origin, colour, religion, sex, age or mental or physical disability.

Valerie Bradford - Liberal Party
No response yet.

Bardish Chagger - Liberal Party
Thanks for this opportunity and thank you to the 2SLGBTQ+ community for your work and for never backing down. You matter and I see you.
At a time when the 2SLGBTQ+ community is under unprecedented attack across the border, and alarmingly from similar political forces here in Canada, I can tell you loud and clear that a Liberal government and I, as your MP, will have your back.
I was proud to come to SPECTRUM as Minister of Diversity and Inclusion and Youth to announce that SPECTRUM would be receiving one of the first ever grants from our LGBTQ2 Community Capacity Fund, which funds community organizations right across the country. Serving as minister taught me so much about the need for consistent and sustained federal government support for 2SLGBTQ+ organizations to provide the services and support that the community needs.
Over the past few years, our government has done even more, including banning conversion therapy, developing Canada's first-ever federal 2SLGBTQI+ Action Plan, and authorizing Canadian Blood Services to lift the unfair blood donation ban for men who have sex with men, among other issues of importance.
We have more work to do and it's no secret that Waterloo is stronger because of our strong 2SLGBTQ+ community. We Liberals understand that defending 2SLGBTQ+ rights, enshrined in our Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms, and building on the progress we are finally making are a core part of what makes us Canadian. I hope to be able to continue to work with you as your MP over the coming years to fight for the rights and needs of the community.

Douglas Ross - People's Party
No response yet.

Hans Roach - Independent
A contact for Hans has not yet been identified.

Héline Chow - New Democratic Party
Protecting and affirming the 2SLGBTQ+ community is extremely important to me. In a time where the fundamental rights of 2SLGBTQ+ people are under attack it is essential to stand together against hate. Win or lose, I hope to help ensure that everyone, regardless of their sexual orientation, gender identity, or expression, feels safe, valued, and supported in Waterloo. New Democrats are committed to fighting alongside the 2SLGBTQI+ community towards a future without transphobia, biphobia, and homophobia. More concretely, there are many things the federal government can do to protect the 2SLGBTQ+ community such as:
- Advocating for Inclusive Policies: I will push for stronger anti-discrimination laws to protect 2SLGBTQ+ individuals in workplaces, schools, and public spaces.
- Supporting Mental Health Services: I will work to increase funding for mental health programs specifically tailored to the needs of 2SLGBTQ+ youth and adults.
- Promoting Education and Awareness: I will champion inclusive education that celebrates diversity and teaches respect for all identities.
- Ensuring Access to Healthcare: I will fight for equitable access to healthcare, including gender-affirming care, for 2SLGBTQ+ individuals.
I am committed to listening to the community, learning from their experiences, and working alongside them to create a society where everyone can thrive.

Jamie Hari - Independent
A contact for Jamie has not yet been identified.

Santa Claus Chatham - Parti Rhinocéros Party
No response yet.

Simon Guthrie - Green Party
My approach, if elected, will be to actively support and amplify the voices of the 2SLGBTQ+ community in Waterloo Region. I will take the following concrete actions:
- Combating Hate and Strengthening Human Rights Legislation: I will advocate for strengthened federal anti-hate laws and more robust enforcement of existing human rights protections, explicitly addressing homophobia, transphobia, and biphobia. I will push for increased funding to national initiatives that track, prevent, and respond effectively to hate crimes targeting 2SLGBTQ+ individuals.
- Improving Access to Affirming Health Care: I will support expanding federal health transfers to provinces to enhance access to gender-affirming healthcare and mental health services. I will advocate for the establishment of national standards for culturally competent and inclusive healthcare delivery to better meet the specific needs of the 2SLGBTQ+ community.
- Inclusive Federal Programs and Representation: I commit to ensuring that all federal government programs, from housing and employment supports to newcomer integration and justice initiatives, explicitly address and accommodate the unique challenges faced by 2SLGBTQ+ individuals. I will advocate for greater representation and involvement of 2SLGBTQ+ voices in shaping these federal policies and programs.
- Supporting Intersectional and Indigenous-Led Initiatives: Recognizing the unique experiences of Indigenous members of the 2SLGBTQ+ community, I will champion increased federal support for intersectional initiatives led by Indigenous and queer-identifying communities. I will prioritize federal funding and policy support for programs that address the compounded impacts of colonialism, racism, and homophobia/transphobia.
- Community-Led Consultation and Accountability: I will create ongoing opportunities for dialogue with 2SLGBTQ+ organizations such as Spectrum, ensuring that my advocacy remains informed by those with lived experiences and expertise. I will be accountable to the community, ensuring their voices guide my actions and priorities in Parliament.
- Visible Solidarity: I will actively participate in and visibly support community-led events, demonstrations, and advocacy campaigns, standing alongside 2SLGBTQ+ individuals and allies. My presence will be a clear statement of solidarity and ongoing commitment to the pursuit of equality, justice, and inclusion.
In short, my role as your federal representative will be to amplify, empower, and resource the 2SLGBTQ+ community in ways that meaningfully advance equity, justice, and inclusion at a national and local level.

Val Neekman - Independent
No response yet.

Waseem Botros - Conservative Party
No response yet.