The Calgary Stampede is distancing itself from controversial statements in a survey it commissioned, some of which are being described as sexist and homophobic.

The Stampede hired Illumina Research Partners to conduct a market research study. While it mostly gauged people's knowledge and opinions of the Stampede, one section asks opinions on a number of statements including, "The only acceptable definition of a family is a husband, wife and children," and "Some jobs are best suited to men. Women should just accept this."

Stampede spokesman Doug Fraser said they didn't create the statements "and they do not reflect the opinions of the Calgary Stampede."

However, he called the research "important" and noted the study provides the Stampede with the detailed information it needs to develop programming, marketing and products "that reflect our rapidly changing community."

Yvonne Brouwers, president of the research firm, said the statements are used by reputable market research firms to get insight into the variety of viewpoints that exist in a population.

"The research model is based on identifying opinions that divide people, so that we can get a better understanding of differences and similarities," she said.

"We've used this type of question for more than 15 years," said Brouwers, who added she has not personally encountered complaints about the statements as anti-gay or anti-woman.

"Many market research firm use these kinds of questions."

Human rights lawyer Mellissa Luhtanen said the two statements were "outdated, discriminatory and irresponsible.

"I think it's clear that they've been using these questions for 15 years because... the definition of family is no longer a husband, wife and children," said Luhtanen, who works with the Alberta Civil Liberties Research Centre.

She suggested researchers could have re-worded or replaced the statements.

"There are other questions they can ask that aren't disrespectful to a community," she said.

Brouwers said the online survey will still be available for a few days, but by Tuesday evening the site was indicating its quota had been reached.