Canadian actor Elliot Page used his platform at the Juno Awards in Halifax, Nova Scotia to speak out against the rollback of LGBTQ rights in Canada. Page, a transgender Halifax native, criticized the global trend of revoking LGBTQ2+ rights, emphasizing the devastating impact it has on the community. During the event, twin singer-songwriters Tegan and Sara were honored with the Junos' humanitarian award for their work with the Tegan and Sara Foundation, which supports 2SLGBTQ+ youth through various programs.
The duo highlighted the importance of advocating for LGBTQ rights, especially in the face of proposed restrictions on health care for transgender youth in provinces like Alberta. Page expressed admiration for Tegan and Sara, citing their inspirational impact on his life and praising the far-reaching impact of their foundation's work.
The 53rd annual Juno Awards saw female artists dominating the major categories, with pop singer Tate McRae winning artist of the year, Charlotte Cardin's '99 Nights' securing album of the year, and the all-female rock band the Beaches taking home group of the year.
The event featured performances and award presentations spread over two nights, with various artists receiving recognition for their contributions to the Canadian music industry. Maestro Fresh Wes, a pioneer in Canadian hip hop, was inducted into the Canadian Music Hall of Fame, marking a significant moment in the country's music history.
The Juno Awards, known for their diverse lineup of performers and venues across different host cities, celebrated the musical achievements of Canadian artists while also addressing important social issues such as LGBTQ rights. The event showcased the talent and resilience of the Canadian music industry, with artists from various genres receiving well-deserved recognition for their contributions.
