Calgary

Tegan and Sara launch foundation in support of LGBTQ rights

Canadian music duo Tegan and Sara have created a new foundation aimed at empowering LGBTQ girls and women.

Foundation to 'fight for economic justice, health, and representation for LGBTQ girls and women'

The Tegan And Sara Foundation will support the work of other groups by raising funds and awareness. (Mark Blinch/Canadian Press)

Canadian music duo Tegan and Sara have created a new foundation aimed at empowering LGBTQ girls and women.

In an open letter posted on their website, the twin sisters spoke of the support they've received from LGBTQ fans throughout their careers as they navigated sexism and homophobia in the music industry.

The Calgary-raised siblings says those actions have inspired them to speak out about the struggles of the community.

The mission of the Tegan and Sara Foundation is to "fight for economic justice, health, and representation for LGBTQ girls and women."

This will involve supporting the work of other groups who have been championing the cause of LGBTQ and women's rights by raising funds and awareness for their initiatives.

'Dismantle systems of inequity'

The duo says they will also fight against the "repressive legislation" of the incoming administration of U.S. president-elect Donald Trump.

"We will fight against regressive homophobic, transphobic, and misogynistic legislation. We will fight for economic, racial and gender justice," a portion of the letter reads.

"We started the foundation to dismantle the systems of inequity that prevent LGBTQ girls and women from reaching their full potential. Together, we can make a difference."