Petition demands Autism B.C. revoke directorship of anti-SOGI board member

A mother of an autistic child has started a petition asking that Autism B.C. revoke the directorship of Laurie Guerra over her participation in an anti-SOGI 123 gathering last week.

Mirella Russell says she can not understand Guerra can advocate for inclusivity of people on the autism spectrum in schools, while speaking out against the same for those in the LGBT community.

"I felt that Autism B.C., whose motto and vision is inclusive society," she said.

"When I saw the article about Laurie Guerra and her position in SOGI, I was deeply offended."

Russell is referring to a News 1130 story that reported Guerra had attended a private party for anti-SOGI 123 campaigners held Nov. 6, two weeks after she was elected to Surrey city council.

SOGI 123 is a resource for B.C. teachers and school administrators with a focus on discrimination and bullying around badual orientation and gender identity.

According to the Autism B.C. website, Guerra has been an active board director for more than 13 years.

The BCEdAccess group, which advocates for fair and equitable access to education, has written an article on the position of the author, saying they have raised their concerns about SOGI's beliefs in July.

"As the issue is now a public one, we are asking that you make an immediate publication of Ms. Guerra's position at Autism BC, and most importantly, what position .

"Sexual orientation and gender identity are not personal choices nor a political position, they are protected under the Canadian Human Rights Act."

Guerra has not responded to interview requests by CBC News.

In a statement, Autism B.C. President Gary Robins wrote, "the views and opinions made by directors and staff of Autism B.C. do not necessarily reflect the views of Autism B.C."

Russell's petition had almost 1,000 signatures as of 4 p.m. PT Monday.

"I want to make clear this is not a fight against Autism B.C.," she said. "This is a fight against Laurie Guerra, who we believe is not representative of our views and this organization."