A townhall event hosted by OneBC in Vancouver on February 25, 2026, drew more than 600 attendees, generating both significant support and vocal opposition. Led by party leader Dallas Brodie, the event featured Chris Elston, known online as Billboard Chris, who is recognized for his controversial activism against gender-affirming care for minors.
Elston, donning a sandwich board that read “Children Cannot Consent to Puberty Blockers,” emphasized his stance against the existence of transgender individuals, stating, “There’s no such thing as a transgender person. There are men and women, boys and girls.” His remarks were met with strong reactions from both supporters and detractors.
The townhall was marketed as a platform for discussions on parental rights, school curricula, and what the organizers termed “gender ideology.” Brodie echoed Elston’s sentiments, claiming that children undergoing gender-affirming treatment are “being mutilated” and that their natural progression through puberty is obstructed by puberty-blocking medications.
In stark contrast, a local teacher who transitioned, referred to as L, attended the event to protest against the rhetoric being presented. L criticized the anti-trans narrative, describing it as steeped in conspiracy. “I think it blows my mind as to what they think is happening in classrooms,” she stated. L highlighted that initiatives like SOGI, which promotes understanding of diverse identities, simply aim to teach students about differences among people.
The townhall sparked protests outside the venue, with demonstrators chanting, “Hey hey, ho ho, transphobia has got to go!” The police maintained a significant presence to ensure order, especially following previous incidents of unrest at OneBC events, including a January gathering at UBC that was marred by protests and safety concerns.
Critics argue that OneBC’s messaging may be further polarizing the community rather than fostering unity. Brodie defended her party’s approach, suggesting that many attendees feel alienated from traditional narratives. “People are coming out who feel completely disaffected by the system,” she said, asserting the need for their voices to be heard.
L, who expressed concern over the ongoing debate surrounding gender identity, articulated her perspective on the impact of such discussions on her life. “I have a really good life. And part of my fear is, I don’t want to lose that,” she said, emphasizing her stability and happiness despite facing hostility.
While the event highlighted deep divisions regarding gender identity and rights, it also showcased the passionate responses that such discussions elicit from both sides of the debate. The implications of these conversations continue to resonate within the community, calling for ongoing dialogue and understanding.
