Alberta LGBTQ+ issues: creator of trans flag rebukes ‘uneducated’ politicians

The creator of the blue, pink and white transgender flag feels certain 2SLGBTQ+ issues are moving in the wrong direction.

“We felt like we were moving forward over the early part of the century and now everything seems to be going backwards,” Monica Helms said.

Helms is the headline speaker at the Visibility Anniversaries Tour, which made a stop at Edmonton’s Timms Centre for the Arts Saturday afternoon.

In recent months, communities have expressed concerns about trans rights in Alberta.

Premier Danielle Smith announced in February new trans legislation, which could be implemented in the fall, that would restrict puberty blockers and transition surgery to specific ages.

And recently the rural town of Westlock, just north of Edmonton, voted to ban all flags and symbols – including Pride colours – on public crosswalks and government property.

Helms, who is from the U.S., says she is quite aware of what is happening in Alberta because the same laws are being discussed in her home state.

“It seems it’s a common theme that the uneducated who are running the state or province are not looking into why trans people exist,” said the internationally recognized trailblazer in the transgender community.

Due to those recent events, organizers felt it was a great opportunity to bring a speaker they call a “living legend” to Alberta to tell her story of perseverance and hope.

“Right now, in the socio-economic sphere, I think refocusing on the things trans people have done for us and the things we should all be doing to protect and lead with them hand in hand, rather than speaking over them or not considering them at all,” said organizer Courtney Conquers. “I just think events like this and people like Monica are extremely pivotal right now.”

Helms is optimistic events like the Visibility Anniversaries Tour will help inform and educate people – both in the community and outside – who may not understand what marginalized people face every day.

On top of stories of struggle, acceptance, and how she transitioned over the years, Helms explained why she designed the now iconic trans flag.

“It feels really wonderful that I see it everywhere and I know that I created it, and it’s nice that people are rallying around it,” she said.

The Visibility Anniversaries Tour goes to Winnipeg, Ottawa and Kingston next. April dates include Toronto and Vancouver.