A recent report from Statistics Canada reveals a declining trend in Canada’s acceptance of gender diversity. The survey conducted in 2025 showed that 77% of women and 70% of men agreed that individuals should have the freedom to express their gender as they wish, down from 85% of women and 78% of men in 2018.
The province of Saskatchewan had the lowest acceptance rates, with 69% of women and 60% of men supporting gender diversity in the latest survey. This marked a significant decrease for women in Saskatchewan, dropping by 14 percentage points from 2018.
Legislative actions in Saskatchewan and Alberta have impacted attitudes towards gender diversity, with laws like Saskatchewan’s Parents’ Bill of Rights, enacted in 2023. According to Wayne Bernakevitch, founder of the Regina Civic Awareness Action Network, confusion and fear may be contributing factors to the diminishing acceptance levels.
Leah Hamilton, a professor at Mount Royal University, highlighted the role of politicians in shaping public attitudes, often using marginalized communities as scapegoats during times of economic uncertainty. Corinne Mason, another professor at the university, emphasized how conservative parties shift blame to marginalized groups, deflecting responsibility for societal challenges.
The survey by Statistics Canada, conducted between October 2024 and July 2025, coincided with the American election, where divisive rhetoric may have influenced Canadian perceptions. Political commentator Jack Saddleback emphasized the impact of external factors on societal attitudes.
The report suggests a potential influence of U.S. election sentiments on Canadian views, with the politicization of gender diversity in recent Saskatchewan elections further exacerbating the situation. Despite challenges, there remains a call for inclusivity and support for gender diverse individuals in the community.
While facing shifting attitudes, advocates like j wallace skelton from the University of Regina stress the importance of combating hate and reinforcing acceptance within communities. Skelton believes in the presence and rights of 2SLGBTQ+ individuals in society, advocating for support and recognition to foster a more inclusive environment.
