NDP MLA believed to be first openly transgender man elected into Manitoba legislature

Election night in Manitoba was a historic moment for Manitoba NDP MLA Logan Oxenham, as not only was he elected for the first time into the Manitoba Legislature, but he is believed to be the first openly transgender man elected at the provincial level in Manitoba.

Oxenham was elected as the MLA for Kirkfield Park, beating out PC incumbent Kevin Klein – who he lost to in the 2022 byelection. With this win, Oxenham is breaking barriers.

“I think it means a lot for the community to have someone who is visible,” said Oxenham.

“I’m standing on the shoulders of others who have led the way and to be here in this position of extreme privilege is not lost on me.”

Uzoma Asagwara, who is non-binary, was re-elected for a second term with the NDP. Transgender candidates Shandi Strong and Trevor Kirczenow ran unsuccessfully for the Manitoba Liberals. Oxenham says he is ready to advocate for those in the trans community, including youth. 

“I want to really shine some light on the experiences of trans youth. I think the way I can help is to listen and help amplify those voices,” said Oxenham.

Ashley Smith, from Winnipeg’s Rainbow Resource Centre, says Oxenham’s win is a moment of celebration for the 2SLGBTQ+ community. He feels there has been a lack of 2SLGBTQ+ representation in all levels of government for far too long.

“As we see the rise of extremist groups that are thriving in Manitoba with their anti-2SLGBTQ+ agendas, we need all the people on our side in the leg so that when they make moves to limit the rights of 2SLGBTQ+ people of all ages, we have the government on our side,” said Smith.

New Brunswick and Saskatchewan have recently required children under 16 to have parental consent to change their names or pronouns at school. The Manitoba PCs campaigned on stronger parental rights in schools, which Smith believes was a major contributor to the PCs losing the election. 

“That sends a strong message that most Canadians support 2SLGBTQ+ rights and will vote in that direction,” said Smith.

The NDP heavily promised to fix health care throughout the election campaign, but Smith says it’s important for the incoming government to address the growing hate towards the 2SLGBTQ+ community. Oxenham agrees.

“Of course education and understanding will go a long way into helping bridge the disconnect, but I also think having leaders who are very strong with their support for the trans community is really important and crucial,” said Oxenham.