#FreeToBeMe @freetobeme_ca
June 14, 2017 Ottawa: The Pride flag and the Transgender Pride flag were raised in Canada’s capital, marking international Pride Month in Canada.
The Pride flag was raised for the first time in Canada’s history on June 1, 2016.
Happening Right Now
Bill C-16 is currently being considered by the Senate and would add gender identity and gender expression to the list of prohibited grounds of discrimination in the Criminal Code and Canadian Human Rights Act. The bill is being stalled by a handful of Conservative Party senators. June 30 th is the last sitting day for the Senate of Canada.
The following senators voted in favor of an amendment causing the delay: Senator Betty Unger , Senator David Wells, Senator Don Plett , Senator Larry Smith, Senator Linda Frum , Senator, Richard Neufeld and Senator Yonah Martin .
Bill C-16 is being debated in the Senate on June 15, 2017, outcome unknown at this time. Editor Note added June 15, 2017: Bill # C16 has passed without amendments. Motion passed 67 for, 11 against, 3 abstained. The bill now goes for Royal Assent.
The Promise
As the LGBTQ2+ community patiently await an apology and changes to legislation to address historical injustices, the Prime Minister, Justin Trudeau and Special Advisor on LGBTQ2 issues, MP Randy Boissonault, are working towards finalizing the legislation expected to be introduced later this year. The Government of Canada acknowledges and will address the injustices faced by the LGBTQ2 community says the PM.
The legislation will make it possible to erase the convictions for Canadians who were found guilty under historical unjust laws.
“
Our government believes in equality and equal treatment for all Canadians.
That is why we are moving forward on legislation that makes it possible to erase the convictions of Canadians who were unjustly convicted of a crime – simply for who they were, or who they loved.”
—
The Rt. Hon. Justin Trudeau, Prime Minister of Canada
“Today our government announced another vital step in addressing the painful history of discrimination against the LGBTQ2 communities. As Pride season commences, Canadians will honour the many victories over the forces of exclusion, intolerance, and hate. We will also soberly acknowledge that there are many challenges still to overcome. I invite all Canadians to join in remembering the past, celebrating our progress, and working towards a better future.”
—
M.P. Randy Boissonnault, Special Advisor to the Prime Minister on LGBTQ2 issues
