Saskatchewan transgender, non-binary, pansexual 12-year-old testifies in Ottawa

In testimony before a parliamentary committee, Zipp Neufeld, 12, talked about his experience as a transgender, non-binary, and pansexual in Saskatoon.

Neufeld uses he/they pronouns and spoke about violence, discrimination, and political attacks directed at gender-diverse communities across the country.

Neufeld expressed frustration and exhaustion, describing the situation as “draining” due to politicians using queer youth “as pawns,” which he believes shifts focus away from issues like housing, inflation, and social support.

“Even a 12-year-old,” Neufeld said, “can understand that when hateful thoughts and words are able to escalate, then violence soon follows.”

Neufeld criticized using his identity as a political distraction to avert attention from broader policy failures. 

“Knowing your existence is being debated only as a way not to talk about big picture things is infuriating,” said Neufeld. 

Despite the adversity, Neufeld urged politicians who support queer youth to continue advocating.

“Please step up. So we can refocus on what matters,” said Neufeld.

Following his testimony, Member of Parliament Leah Gazan asked Neufeld for advice on how elected officials could become better allies. 

Gazan referenced Neufeld’s previous statements at Saskatoon City Hall, including “When trans adults thrive, trans kids survive.”

Gazan acknowledged that younger voices can provide “profound wisdom,” comparing Neufeld’s activism to that of global youth leaders such as Greta Thunberg.

In response, Neufeld clarified what meaningful allyship entails. 

Neufeld urged allies not just to listen but to “speak with us,” ensuring that queer youth are not forced to shoulder the burden of advocacy alone. 

“It would help us not have to think so much about our future and how the government is working right now,” said Neufeld.

Neufeld also offered insight into his daily school life, acknowledging that hostility can surface elsewhere while his classroom feels supportive.

Gazan asked how to ensure safe spaces in education. 

For Neufeld, the solution lies in shared responsibility between elected officials, educators, and community members standing alongside queer youth, amplifying their voices, and demanding change.

“We will never back down,” said Neufeld. 

“We will always speak up until the violence against us ends.”

At no point during Neufeld’s testimony did he mention any examples of violence towards himself.