'Morally repugnant' attempt

Re. Shooting sparks debate (Castanet, Feb. 11)

Kelowna-Lake Country-Coldstream MLA Tara Armstrong’s attempt to exploit the Tumbler Ridge tragedy for political gain is morally repugnant.

From a truth-seeking perspective, claims of an "epidemic of transgender violence" crumble under scrutiny.

Mass shootings by transgender individuals are exceedingly rare, accounting for fewer than 0.1% of incidents since 2013 in the U.S. (with similar patterns in Canada), where 98% are perpetrated by cisgender men.

Transgender people are underrepresented as offenders relative to their population size (about 1%).

In stark contrast, transgender individuals are over four times more likely to be victims of violent crimes like assault or rape, with even higher rates for Black transgender women. Since 2013, at least 200 transgender people in the U.S. have been killed, disproportionately affecting people of colour.

Mental health concerns are valid, the shooter had prior issues, common in such events regardless of identity. But equating transgender identity with "delusions" ignores medical consensus—gender dysphoria is treatable and gender-affirming care, backed by major health organizations, reduces distress and suicide risk.

Blaming policies like SOGI ignores root causes like poor mental health access, gun availability, and isolation.

Politicizing this tragedy stigmatizes vulnerable groups without solutions. Instead, let's prioritize evidence-based fixes, bolstering mental health services, sensible gun laws, and inclusive education like SOGI, which fosters safer schools for all.

Evidence shows transgender people as overwhelming victims, not perpetrators and SOGI builds safer communities.

Walter Trkla, Kamloops