Phew, another election article and hopefully our last for a little while. In last month’s article for the Municipal Elections, we promised to post online any responses to our questions that we received after we went to press. Unfortunately we didn’t receive any more, so thus we had nothing to post online!

This month we have the Provincial Elections occurring on November 22nd, and we have once again polled all of the candidates that are running. This article contains the responses we received before going to press, and once again if we receive any more, we will post them online at www.gaycalgary.com.

We asked the following 4 questions:

Question 1: Do you support equal rights for gays and lesbians?

 Question 2: With other provinces across Canada now allowing same sex marriages, are you for or against same-sex couples getting legally married or having civil unions?

Question 3: If elected, what would you do for your Electoral Division or for the province of Alberta that might interest our readers? Question 4: Do you support Gay Pride week in Calgary, and if elected, would you participate in the Pride Parade? Would you show your support at the annual Gay Rodeo put on by ARGRA, or at other gay and lesbian events in the city?

Here are the responses we received from entire political parties:

New Democratic Party (NDP) of Alberta

1. Yes. The Alberta NDP firmly supports equal rights for gays and lesbians.

2. Legal recognition for marriages of same-sex couples is part of the Alberta

NDP’s platform.

3. The Alberta NDP will ensure equal treatment for same-sex couples in matters of employment benefits, pensions, divorce and wills and estates. As well, we will:

- Properly resource the Human Rights Commission and ensure it has the capacity to enforce its rulings

- Filter school curriculum for racism, sexism, or other intolerant materials. Expand human rights education in schools

- Amend any legislation that has been ruled to contravene the Charter of Rights and Freedoms

4. The Alberta NDP would encourage its candidates and all Albertans to participate in events sponsored by the LGBT community.

PC Party of Alberta

The PC Party of Alberta believes everyone should be treated fairly and does not support discrimination against gays and lesbians. However, our Party believes that marriage is a union involving one man and one woman.

Communist Party of Canada

1. Absolutely. Communists do not support any form of class, race, or gender hierarchy; all forms of discrimination based on visible markers, sexual orientation, wealth or physical characteristics are anathema.

2. Communists have serious questions and reservations about the legitimacy of the state and/or the church sanctifying or interfering with living arrangements chosen by consenting adults; however, should these consenting adults, no matter what their gender orientation or alignment might be, wish to be joined legally and officially in a married state, we would support absolutely their right to make that choice and to enter into that condition.

3. The Communist Party would work for a complete erasure of both official and implicit regimes of discrimination so that all citizens of Canada might enjoy freedoms, occupations, recreations, and the like without fear or rejection or abuse. We would also support affirmative action for gays, lesbians, and the transgendered so that there is at least a percentage parity in employment in the public sector, as teachers, in the legal profession, and so on. Adoption and daycare should be made equally accessible for this societal group, as well. If married same sex couples later decide to separate, they should have access to all the legal forums for divorce and division of property that heterosexual couples have.

4. Absolutely – yes to both questions. It would be our pleasure and honor to be invited to participate.

Here are the responses we received from individual candidates, ordered by region:

Calgary-Bow:

Jeff Krekoski – Alberta Greens

I would like to answer your questions, but at this point do not feel I have an adequately informed viewpoint. I am a young man, and yet have much to learn about these very important issues. I would be happy to meet with members of your community in the hopes of gaining more information upon which to base a political stance.

Kelly McDonnell – Liberal Candidate

1. YES! I support everyone having the same rights and responsibilities. What I find appalling is some people’s inability to tell the difference between perverted and normal (ok close to normal). The confusion they create in the public’s eye is a shame. Their focus on homosexuality allows the true bent twisted perverts to escape detection and or go unpunished. Child molesters, male or female, Mate beaters male or female, those who encourage or use child prostitutes, those who chose to bully, hurt or torture innocents, again male or female, straight or gay are the true perverts who should be dealt with.

2. I support everyone having responsibilities and rights.

3. Work hard, show up and ask questions, work for the reduction of MLA seats. The existing system allows them to never even show up. They do nothing yet are paid still. Ask your average back bencher what they do in a day, why should they be paid to do NOTHING.

4. Unfortunately the reality of it is I neither support nor care, at this point it has not been something that entered my life. Would I participate in the Pride Parade, if it got me votes? Probably. If I’m not supporting or participating in Rodeo Royal or the Stampede most years why would I support ARGA, there also great functions. I have been to both gay and lesbian events with friends, sometimes I didn’t know what they were till someone pointed it out, so would I attend a fun function put on by a group of great people? YES. Would I support a function put on for a good cause? YES.

Calgary-Buffalo:

Grant Neufeld – Alberta Greens

1. Yes. And bisexuals, transsexuals, transgendered, asexuals, etc.

2. I’m not a big fan of marriage in general, but if there’s going to be marriage then any consenting adults should be entitled to engage in it (in couples or polygynous/polyandrous/polygamous groupings). The key factor is consent (which this culture holds that minors cannot fully form).

That said, I certainly don’t encourage poly-marriages as I know that it’s typically hard enough for people to find a relationship balance in a pair. So 3 or more people would be very difficult to manage - but I’m not denying the possibility. People should be allowed to do what they want as long as they aren’t doing harm.

3. Push the Alberta Human Rights Commission to be fully supportive of all human rights issues and treat all discrimination as important to challenge (including, obviously, sexual diversity).

4. Yes. I was there this year with a bunch of friends, as well as some other Greens. I recommend firing whoever scheduled the rain to occur during the parade. :-)

I missed last year, but attended the one the year before when Joe Clark was parade marshal. I was the guy dressed up kind of like a Mormon - my version of drag ;-) - carrying a sign with a rainbow flag and a bible quote: John 15:12 "Here is my commandment to you: That you love one another", to present a counter to the right-wing Christians who were threatening to harass the parade that year. I’m not actually Christian myself, but it’s my cultural background and I’ve done a lot of critical religious studies - including studying the entire Christian text. I don’t like rodeos (I’m one of the people who tries to be out of town during the stampede).

As to attending events, I certainly try to get out to a lot of stuff in the community, so I try to get out to what I can, including LGBTT events.

Calgary-Cross – no candidates responded before our press deadline.

Calgary-Currie:

Kim Warnke – Alberta Greens

1. Of course. I think it is sad, that in a society that prides itself on being democratic and humanitarian, that equal rights for minority groups are even an issue.

2. I believe that if anyone is willing to make a loving commitment to another no level of government legislation should stand in the way. I am uncomfortable with forcing religious leaders to perform ceremonies that go against their beliefs, but I believe civil unions are appropriate. If provinces are split in their standing on same-sex marriages only confusion and frustration can result. It is vitally important to recognize a union in all jurisdictions so as to ensure fair taxation and benefits for same-sex couples nationwide.

3. One of my pet projects is improvement of public transportation. The other is to ensure Albertans are justly compensated for the retrieval of oil and natural gases. Worldwide, governments collect close to 100% of the available economic rent available from these processes. In Alberta, we now collect only 41%. The rest goes back to the investing companies as excess profit. In 2002, this uncollected profit was worth 13 billion dollars. We could definitely be using that money.

4. Parade? Rodeo? I’m there! I love celebrations of any kind and would be glad to participate. I am only sorry that in Canadian culture we focus on celebrating only our differences and not our similarities.

Jon Lord – PC Alberta

1. Of course – I have always supported equal rights for everyone in society – we are all just people! I was at the table and strongly influential in getting our awkwardly named Adult Interdependent Relationship Act passed, which subtly created the most progressive legislation in Canada (at the time) on this subject. The Act gave everyone with any type of serious, interdependent relationship regardless of lifestyle, virtually equal rights to everyone else who has the married piece of paper – meaning that from a legal standpoint, virtually all has been accomplished except for the single difference of a word. This was not an easy thing to do without stirring up a hornet’s nest – but is just another example of how things can be better achieved in other ways than confrontational, adversarial and often losing battles. Polarization of our society, and trying to "force" people to do things before they are in agreement, is very damaging to the future of us all, when better alternatives existed.

2. I believe that civil unions are inevitable - it is just a matter of a little time for the general population to become better adjusted to the idea. I think of this issue like a green banana – if you try to eat it too soon, you get a stomach ache. If you proceed with strategy and diplomacy, it will happen faster – if you try to force it before the general public has grown to accept or support it, you may get an angry backlash that sets you backwards. All good things take time to prepare properly, and since it is unlikely that many churches or religious groups (our most conservative institutions) will provide such services anytime soon, civil unions in the near future are the most appropriate direction for the near term.

3. If elected, I have a huge agenda of innovative, leading edge solutions to numerous societal issues on many fronts that I have been diligently working on already and will continue to actively advance. You don’t have to guess or take my word for it - read my web-page at www.jonlord.net for the answers to this – it would take hours and pages to fully explain it all. I’m an all action kind of guy, with the track record to prove it, as opposed to an all talk kind of person.

4. I have attended the Gay Pride parade in past and was even asked to Marshall it one year, (before Joe Clark and others did) – except it was right in the middle of a very tough nomination battle against a very right-wing religious opponent, who certainly would have used it to beat me. When I was the first (and only) Conservative to publicly support the Gala 2000 festival, the hatred directed at me was astonishing, not that it stopped me. From within the Government Caucus (where it counts) I will continue to be a voice of moderation and to foster tolerance and understanding for underdogs of any description, in a manner that I feel best serves their interests in the long run.

Calgary-East and Calgary-Egmont – no candidates responded before our press deadline.

Calgary-Elbow:

Allison Roth – Alberta Greens

1. Absolutely. But only if that includes bis and trannies. ;-)

2. I would be for same-sex couples getting legally married regardless of the decisions in other provinces. The idea of marriage solely for procreation is purely ridiculous, and marriage solely as a religious function should not apply, as Canada is not a theocracy. Therefore, there is no basis to deny same-sex the rights of marriage. However, if a particular church does not want to perform a marriage, they have the right to refuse (just as they have the right to refuse any opposite-sex couple).

3. Given your incredibly diverse readership, I find this a difficult question to answer in less than an essay. However, I’d have to say my main issue is electoral reform. Alberta needs a more transparent, grassroots, and truly democratic government. Once the true voice of the people can be heard, that’s when it gets interesting for everyone.

4. Yes; I had planned to participate this year, but got called away shortly before. Certainly - I’ve attended some Apollo events and a couple of Court events, and always had a great time. The only exception - I would not attend an event if the theme was completely against one of the 10 Key Values of the Green Party.

Calgary-Fish Creek:

Eric Leavitt – NDP

1. Yes, unequivocally.

2. Same-sex couples should be permitted to marry under the same rules as heterosexual couples.

3. Work hard for social justice issues.

4. Yes and if elected I would participate in the Pride Parade during Gay Pride Week. I took part in the last one along with our candidate in the June, 2004 Federal Election.

Calgary-Foothills:

Stephen Jenuth

1. Yes. No only should equal rights be enshrined in law in the Alberta Human Rights Act, and the discrimination removed from the Marriage Act, but we should review other provincial actions to ensure they do not advertently or inadvertently discriminate against gays and lesbians.

2. I believe that Alberta law ought to be changed to formally recognize same sex marriages, and to permit the solemnization of those marriages in Alberta. As for whether a particular couple would choose to opt for a same sex marriage, a civil union, or a "traditional" same sex relationship; that is really up to the couple.

3. I believe that it is time for a new vision for Alberta, one which mirrors the vision of the founders of this province. Alberta was the first jurisdiction in the British Empire to recognize equality for women by appointing a woman as a judge, and lead the way in terms of recognition of rights for woman. We must now begin to extend this vision to all inhabitants of this province.

At the same time, I believe that we have to regain our vision of building this province on the minds of young Albertans. We must put renewed emphasis on our universities and colleges, and put into place stable long term funding which will continue even after the oil industry ceases to be the engine of this province.

4. I would be happy to support these events.

Calgary-Fort:

Tyler Charkie – Alberta Greens

1. Absolutely!

2. Respect for Diversity, and Gender Equity are 2 of the 10 Key Values of Sustainable Society. The Green Party fully supports same-sex marriage, and its recognition in the province of Alberta.

3. When elected, I will push to legislate employer benefit provisions to include same-sex marriage. Example: many employers provide health and dental benefits to their staff. When their staff get married, the benefit plan then extends to the spouse. I will ensure the same employer benefits are extended in same-sex unions.

4. Yee-Haw! I earned a degree in agriculture at university...a good rodeo is right up my alley! Also, count me in at the Pride Parade!

Calgary-Glenmore:

Evan Sklarski – Alberta Greens

1. Of course, the Green Party has respect for diversity of any kind, and all of the people involved share this value.

2. I am in favor of the idea, and think that Klein has let personal conviction stand in the way of society. As a grassroots democracy, a Green government would solicit input from interested people and groups to ensure the issue receives proper attention (like modifying divorce law at the same time).

3. We, the Green Party, are trying to change the face of politics to be inclusive, and democratic. As a candidate for the Green Party I will uphold the 10 key principles (available at: https://www.albertagreens.ca/) and fight for people in my riding and all Albertans.

4. I am in favor of all public events that attempt to bring people together and spread values of diversity. As an elected member of the legislature I would attempt to make it to all events to which I was invited.

Calgary-Hays, Calgary-Lougheed, Calgary-Mackay, Calgary-McCall, Calgary-Montrose, and Calgary-Mountainview – no candidates responded before our press deadline.

Calgary-North Hill:

Susan Stratton – Alberta Greens

1. Absolutely. It’s love and commitment that matter.

2. I’m for whichever the couple wants: legal marriage or civil union. Certainly legal marriage should be an option for them.

3. I would throw whatever weight I could muster against Alberta invoking the notwithstanding clause for sure.

4. I participated in the parade this year, happy to be there with other Greens, other Unitarians, and other Raging Grannies - and with everyone who defied the miserable weather. I would certainly do it again, and I’d be happy to support other gay and lesbian events.

Gerry Pyne – Alberta Social Credit Party

1. Yes, I support equal rights for gays and lesbians.

The Principles and Aims of the Alberta Social Credit Party (which form part of the constitution) clearly state: "Security with freedom. Material security alone is not enough. Each individual must be secure in the knowledge that he or she is worthy, respected, equal and free, and that the freedom to choose his or her destiny is an inalienable right." And, "To oppose any attempt to spread or implant the seeds of racial discrimination, class hatred or religious intolerance among the citizens of Alberta." Ironically, a former leader of our party (who now heads the Alberta Alliance) did not conform nor agree with these truths. Attempts have and will be made to re-connect with the community. Though all members of the GLBTQ community may not trust the motivation to do so, it is a firm belief that credibility is developed through a consistent application of the principles.

2. Yes. In so far as it is not binding on religious organizations whose doctrine

do not agree with same-sex unions.

3. As the senatorial candidate for Social Credit - my answer is different from a member of the Legislative Assembly. If appointed to the Senate by the Prime Minister, remedies to issues which not only affect Albertans - but all Canadians - must be given careful consideration.

4. Yes. There is no reason why a public official wouldn’t support a segment of

Canada which wishes to express their individuality, such as any other identifiable culture. Though I am not a member of the GLBTQ community, my wife and I would be honored to be included if invited to do so.

Calgary-Northwest:

Judy Stewart – Alberta Liberal

1. I support equal rights for all citizens regardless of sexual orientation. Equal rights to government services, benefits and the law.

2. I support both civil unions and legalizing civil unions. The definition of marriage needs to change before gay marriage can be effected. As it stands right now, legal marriage is between a man and a woman. I am in favor of changing the legal definition of marriage.

3. I would govern with responsibility, accountability and respectfulness. I would represent every citizen to the best of my abilities and attend functions, celebrations and perform my duties as your elected representative.

4. I will not participate in Gay Pride parades or the gay rodeo event unless the events are held within my constituency and I am asked to represent my government at those events. I usually attend events I am invited to. If you have an issue that needs to be dealt with by government, I would do my best to represent you and the issue for resolution. Actually, if I were invited to a gay parade or a gay rodeo, I would be proud to go help you celebrate.

Calgary-Nose Hill, Calgary-Shaw – no candidates responded before our press deadline.

Calgary-Varsity:

Mark Gabruch - NDP

1. Absolutely

2. I support legal recognition of same-sex marriages, this is part of the NDP’s platform.

3. As a member of the NDP, I am committed to the advancement of equal rights for same-sex couples.

4. I have supported LGBT events in the past and would continue to support them.

Calgary-West:

James Kohut – Alberta Greens

1. Yes – I support equal rights for all people.

2. I am for it. I do not believe in asymmetrical federalism, and believe marriage standards should be the same in all provinces and territories. The ball is rolling – it is time to roll it into Alberta.

3. My prime focus is to introduce a real grass-roots democracy in Alberta. Once we establish real democracy here, we will create an environment for real political change to occur, in areas such as the: environment, social system, economy, and justice system. I will push to: ban Alberta’s 2 tier election system rules; change the Alberta Municipal Election Act and ban Calgary’s Mayor and Alderman from keeping surplus election donations, which in part, are bribes (for free), ban Alberta’s current election system and replace it with proportional representation voting so that if a party gets 33% of the vote, they only get 33% of the seats – no more, no less; introduce Participatory Democracy where people make decisions – not politicians; ban corporate political donations; ban other election rules that lead to corruption (like not showing ID before voting, mail in ballots etc.)

4. If I get my own "float" and can pump out my own tunes – sure! I don’t care to see animals getting hurt or killed in some rodeo events, so I’ll skip rodeo, however, I will consider attending some other events.

Alberta Provincial Elections - Calgary Area

www.electionsalberta.ab.ca

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Contributor Rob Diaz-Marino |

Locale Calgary |

Topic Politics |