TOM DYAS

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.

Outside of my personal support to friends and family in the LGBTQ+ community, I have not had occasion to advocate as suggested.  I will say that I am committed to making Kelowna an inclusive and safe place to live and work for all citizens. If elected Mayor, I will initiate the support required for all groups in our society which are unduly and/or illegally persecuted.  I believe that the number one duty of the office of the Mayor is to protect it’s citizenry, in an equal and unbiased manner. 

2.Please comment on your opinion of the SOGI123 resources from the Ministry of Education.

 

As a parent, I have taught my children to be kind to others regardless of race, orientation, religion etc. If my child were gay I would want them to be welcomed with kindness in various circumstances.

 

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?

I am committed to making Kelowna an inclusive and safe place to live and work for all citizens. If elected Mayor I will pledge the support required for all groups in our society which are unduly and/or illegally persecuted.  I believe that the number one duty of the office of the Mayor is to protect it’s citizenry, in an equal and unbiased manner.  Additionally, I will support law enforcement and our judiciary to ensure that all Kelowna citizens are equally protected.

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?

I have been, and will continue to be, a full supporter of Foundry in Kelowna, which I feel is an incredibly amazing centre and resource for those suffering from mental illness in our community. In addition, I will continue to advocate for, and push for implementation of Journey Home.

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?

 

I am not aware of any ‘mass exodus’ by any individuals or groups.  On the contrary, there seems to be a mass influx of people of all description to our community.

 

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?

Once again, I am committed to making Kelowna an inclusive and safe place to live and work for all citizens. If elected Mayor, I will initiate the support required for all groups in our society which are unduly and/or illegally persecuted.  I believe that the number one duty of the office of the Mayor is to protect its citizenry in an equal and unbiased manner. 

Thank you,