2SLGBTQ+ newcomers say hatred, homophobia persist in their cultural communities [Video]

Jaideep Singh knows not to tell people in the Punjabi community that he is gay, as that is often met with ridicule, disdain or the threat of ostracization. It’s an experience other 2SLGBTQ+ members say is common in newcomer communities.

“It’s been really hard. In the community, to be queer, is really challenging,” the 24-year-old said.

“Sometimes, I don’t really feel like a part of the community because there’s no space for being queer.”

In a scan of Facebook and other social media groups with mostly newcomers, CBC saw posts from a few members sharing homophobic and transphobic messaging.

A woman posted multiple times in one Regina group, discouraging members to send their kids to school for Pride-related activities. In another group, a member asked people not to attend a Pride parade.

One newcomer, who had earlier voiced their support of the Saskatchewan government’s pronoun bill— which makes parental consent required before a …