A recent report from Statistics Canada reveals a decline in Canada’s acceptance of gender diversity. In 2025, 77% of women and 70% of men surveyed supported the freedom to express gender choices, down from 85% of women and 78% of men in 2018. Saskatchewan had the lowest acceptance rates, with 69% of women and 60% of men agreeing, marking a decrease from 2018.
The decrease in acceptance could be attributed to confusion and fear, as suggested by Wayne Bernakevitch, founder of the Regina Civic Awareness Action Network. Legislation targeting trans and gender diverse youth, such as Saskatchewan’s Parents’ Bill of Rights enacted in 2023, may have influenced these attitudes. Political figures play a significant role in shaping societal perceptions, with Leah Hamilton and Corinne Mason emphasizing the impact of politicians in creating scapegoats.
The survey conducted from October 2024 to July 2025 coincided with the American election, potentially impacting attitudes in Canada. Jack Saddleback highlighted the influence of the U.S. election on Canadian sentiments. The politicization of trans and gender diverse individuals in recent provincial elections could have further fueled the decline in support, as noted by j wallace skelton.
Despite the shift in attitudes, there is still support for gender diversity in Saskatchewan. Families are expressing concerns over safety, but skelton advocates for inclusivity and support for 2SLGBTQ+ individuals within communities. Encouragingly, skelton believes that combating hate and promoting inclusion can help reverse the negative trend and create a more accepting environment for all individuals.