Today is the International Day Against Homophobia and Transphobia. Twenty-one years ago on this day homosexuality was removed from the International Classification of Diseases of the World Health Organization (WHO). This victory was a historic step towards recognizing freedom of sexual orientation and gender identity as a fundamental basic human right. Today the Canadian Labour Congress (CLC) stands in solidarity with the lesbian, gay, bisexual, and trans (LGBT) community in the struggle to end homophobia and transphobia.
This year has been witness to many victories for the LGBT community and its allies. Concerns about homophobic bullying have led to a groundswell of support for better policies and support systems in schools and workplaces. Bill C-389, which would amend the Human Rights Act to include gender identity and gender expression, passed third reading in the House of Commons. Thunder Bay, Ontario will host its first Pride celebrations, and Vancouver, British Columbia will host the second annual North American OutGames.
We still have many challenges.
Bill C-389 had not been heard in the Senate before an election was called, so will need to make its way through the next Parliament. With the retirement of MP Bill Siksay, who worked hard for many years on this legislation, we will need to find a new champion in the House of Commons.
