A Winnipeg school trustee candidate is creating a stir with his controversial campaign. Timothy Giesbrecht is running for trustee in the River East Transcona School Division with a campaign focused on removing gender ideology from school policies. Giesbrecht said as trustee he would work to reverse the “Respect for Human Diversity Policy” that allows students and teachers to choose their own genders. He noted that the policy also permits students to use the washroom and play on sports teams that align with their gender identity. Giesbrecht said he believes these changes would create a more respectful environment, adding that he doesn’t think the current policies reflect reality. “I think students are best instructed in a place where they can learn the truth and where there’s honesty and integrity,” he said in an interview on Saturday. “And that’s what I hope to bring to the school division.” Giesbrecht’s platform is garnering concern among Winnipeggers, with online commenters saying his campaign is discriminatory and lacks evidence. He said the negative reaction is due to a “tremendous misunderstanding.” “What I am pushing for is to have everyone feel safe in the body that they have,” he said. “They shouldn’t be pressured to change to another gender, for example. And that everyone can learn and thrive in school just the way they are.” President of Pride Winnipeg Barry Karlenzig said it’s “disgusting” to see this type of campaign, especially in 2026. He added Giesbrecht’s platform is “appalling,” emphasizing that school trustees are supposed to protect children. “Hate speech is not welcome in Winnipeg,” Karlenzig said. “Winnipeg is one of the most culturally diverse and most accepting cities within Canada. We are not perfect, but we are growing year over year.” Karlenzig went on to suggest that Giesbrecht speak with Health Canada, the Winnipeg Regional Health Authority, and worldwide sources to better understand gender identity. He noted that the world is evolving and that Giesbrecht’s campaign is a hurtful to equality. “Where are your resources? Where are your studies? Where are you reaching out to different people within the queer community as a whole, like the other trustees have across the city of Winnipeg,” Karlenzig questioned. Giesbrecht’s campaign also includes signs that show a Pride flag with an X through it. The Manitoba School Boards Association of said it is aware of the signs and has made inquiries. Elections Winnipeg said campaign sign placement on public property is subject to regulations under city bylaws. It added that there is no specific legislation that restricts candidate campaign materials. Community members with questions about campaigns are asked to contact their local senior election official.
