CHARLIE HODGE
1. How have you advocated for the LGBTQ+ community and supported inclusion for the LGBTQ+ community in the past (i.e. have you spoken out publicly for policies at your place of business, testified before government bodies, adopted written policies for your employees, marched for equal rights, etc.)? Please feel free to include events you have participated in and relevant organizations who have endorsed you.
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Answer: I am the first (and one of only two) Honourary Lifetime members of The Bridge Youth and Family Services. I organized and hosted for 10 years the Night of the Arts fundraiser and awareness event for the Okanagan Youth and Family Services, then the Bridge, and eventually Metro. The event raised awareness about homeless, addicted, and youth at risk. I was also a Foster parent, Big Brother, and a coach for youth and addicted.
I have spoken and marched in Pride Parades as both a City Councillor and as a resident. I have advocated for the LGBTO and community most of my life and certainly at numerous events, times, locations and in various roles - Councillor, journalist, fund raiser, columnist, foster parent. My wife and I spent 10 years working hard legally to see that victims of the residential schools were finally financially compensated. All my life I have been an advocate for those without a voice or in need of support. My track record is proof of that.
Oh yeah, and I supported the painted sidewalks. lol
2. Please comment on your opinion of the SOGI123 resources from the Ministry of Education.
Answer: SOG123 is a breath of fresh air and a viable tool for teachers and schools to educate themselves, students, and parents. Stats suggest that 64% of LGB youth do not feel safe in schools and I would suggest that number is much higher. This resource available to all schools is a major step forward in helping that. In just two years it is already having a positive impact.
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3. The LGBTQ community in Kelowna continues to face harassment, bullying and violence because of sexual orientation and/or gender identity. How will you work to promote a safer, more inclusive Kelowna?
Answer: Hopefully by example first and foremost. I am happy to do public presentations and write about such issues. Also policy and bylaw sometimes provide that opportunity. Education and openness is imperative.
4. Mental health and addictions issues have impacted our community like many others. The LGBTQ+ community is disproportionately affected due to many social and economic factors. What will you do to improve and address these issue, and improve the mental health and wellness of our community?
Answer: There are a couple of ways but first I believe we need proper facilities and enough workers to help those facing mental health or addiction issues. That means we need to lobby harshly for funds and facilities from both the Federal and Provincial governments who have basically disappeared from the situation. I will also lobby for any guidelines or bylaws that logically align with Cities Fit For Children and or Safe Cities targets.
5. LGBTQ+ youth and young adults routinely leave Kelowna for larger cities once they have reached the age of majority. What factors do you think lead to this mass exodus, and what would you do to address these issues?
Answer: Lots leave because that is how life works, however some feel safer in big cities because of more acceptance or the ability to blend in. We need to find jobs and housing that help them remain in town - which we are working hard at currently on council - with more light technology jobs and work and diversified housing on stream in the next two years. Also we must continue to be supportive of youth and LGBTQ feeling safe here in whatever means necessary including facilities and programs of inclusiveness.
6. Ally is a verb. How would you specifically support our QTBIMPoC (Queer, Trans, Black, Mixed Race, Indigenous, People of Color), immigrants and refugees, and ensure they see themselves represented in our community?
Answer: I already am and will continue to be your voice. Every Friday I meet with ANYONE who wants to chat with me over social or private issues that I, as a Councillor and/or as a columnist, may be able to assist with.
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My life is filled with diverse interests and people and I am blessed to be here. I love to help people and see myself as the voice of reason and the voice of kindness, caring, and common sense.