From the Heart: understanding the impacts of AB’s anti-transgender laws

Join us for personal stories of the impacts of Bills 26, 28, and 29 on Albertan athletes, teachers, parents, children, and church members. Learn together how we can take action in support of gender-diverse people. Please save and share the image above, and use freely. 

In 2024 Alberta passed the legislation needed to put in place major medical and athletic restrictions on transgender people, and restrictions on sexual health education and gender expression in the school system. The result: the most restrictive laws in Canada. The legislation is facing legal and Charter challenges, and has met with fierce resistance from gender-diverse people and allies, as well as strong criticism from a range of professional associations.

Behind the headlines and debates, what is happening for transgender people in Alberta? This isn’t only a legal and legislative matter; it has lived impacts on people’s bodies, minds, hearts, and spirit. We thank our speakers, who are joining us to speak about the impact on their lives. We invite you to come with an open mind and heart, and hear their stories, no matter your opinion on this legislation. Come and listen.

Our speakers

Mickey Wilson, chair of the Northern Spirit Affirming Committee, will be our moderator.

Nichole Aytenfisu

Nichole and Milo Aytenfisu are United Church members, and will talk from a parent and child perspective. Nichole is

Milo Aytenfisu

an Alberta Fitness Certified Group Fitness Professional with several years of experience working with diverse populations. She is passionate about empowering individuals to become the healthiest and happiest versions of themselves and believes a huge part of wellness comes from feeling connected to community. As a parent of a trans child, Nichole has seen firsthand the profound impact the current political climate around trans issues can have on children, families and communities. This personal experience has only strengthened her resolve to ensure the spaces she influences are as inclusive, affirming, and welcoming as possible.

Passionate about social justice and politics, Milo actively seeks out opportunities to learn from diverse perspectives and communities. He is a dedicated student leader, involved in anti-racism initiatives and LGBTQ+ advocacy through GSA, Student Council, and the Anti-Racism Committee. Milo cares deeply about justice and looks forward to deepening his involvement in social justice as he continues his journey at the University of Alberta next year.

Amanda Barrett

Amanda Barrett is a Sexual Orientation and Gender Identity and Expression Consultant and High School Counsellor in Edmonton, Alberta. Her work centres on the support of sexual and gender minority children and youth along with the fostering of good mental health for all students. Amanda’s commitment to the creation of inclusive, safe, and healthy work and learning environments is informed by her studies (most recently the completion of her Master of Arts in Counselling Psychology) and many volunteer experiences. Amanda (she/her) is an educator with over 20 years of experience, dedicated to fostering growth and development in diverse learning environments. Throughout her career, she has worked as a teacher, librarian, counselor, and consultant, using her expertise to support students, professionals, and organizations. Amanda is deeply committed to social justice, with extensive volunteer work within queer and trans communities, advocating for inclusivity and equality. Her passion for education and community engagement drives her to empower others, creating safe, supportive spaces for all.

Allison Hadley is a trans woman and competitive skier.

Rachel Young

Rachel Young is a member of the Northern Spirit Affirming Committee. Her home community of faith is Grace United Church in Lloydminster. Rachel  volunteers on the Worship Committee, Vacation Bible School and Christian Development. She also participates and collaborates with other committees at Grace with their growth within the Pride Community. She believes in the affirmation and celebration of all people as well as advocating for the rights and protections of others. Rachel is currently discerning her role in Diaconal Ministry and advancing her post-secondary studies at Lakeland College as a Candidate Minister.

This public space is part of the Northern Spirit Regional Council annual meeting, and is offered by the Regional Council’s Affirming Committee.