Ottawa, ON – The Hon. Candice Bergen, Leader of the Conservative Party of Canada and the Official Opposition, released the following statement on the beginning of Pride Month:

“Today, LGBTQ2S+ Canadians and their allies across the country are celebrating the beginning of Pride Month.

“During Pride, we recommit to building a country where no one is suffering because of their sexual orientation or gender identity, so that everyone can live free from hatred and discrimination. We also commit to helping members of the international LGBTQ2S+ community who live in areas of the world where they are targeted because of their sexual orientation.

“No one should ever be judged for who they are or who they love. Bigotry and homophobia have no place in Canada.

“This month, while we celebrate the progress that has been made for the LGBTQ2S+ community so far, we know that more work lies ahead of us. I’m proud of recent efforts put forward by my Conservative colleagues on behalf of the LGBTQ2S+ community, including our successful advocacy to end the homophobic gay blood ban.

“On behalf of the Conservative Party of Canada, I want to extend my thanks to all those across the country who are continuing the fight for equality this Pride Month.

“Happy Pride!”