Portrait of Justin Trudeau
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Justin Trudeau on LGBTQ+ Rights

Strong Advocate For Rights (strong)

Justin Trudeau has presented himself as a firm proponent of LGBTQ+ Rights throughout his political career, particularly during his time as Prime Minister of Canada.

His approach has involved acknowledging and apologizing for past government actions that harmed the community while actively pursuing new protections and promoting equality on the basis of sexual orientation and gender identity.

Trudeau affirmed his commitment to continue fighting discrimination and supporting the community, both domestically and on the international stage, emphasizing that diversity is a source of national strength.

Context

As Prime Minister, Justin Trudeau held the authority to enact significant federal policy and legislative changes affecting LGBTQ2 communities, making his stance and actions central to the national conversation on human rights.

His government focused on addressing systemic discrimination, including historical wrongs like the criminalization of same-sex intimacy and contemporary issues affecting transgender individuals and blood donation eligibility.

Actions Taken

  1. Legislation
    Introduced federal legislation to protect transgender people and prevent discrimination based on gender identity.
  2. Public Advocacy/Symbolic Action
    Became the first Canadian Prime Minister to march in a Pride Parade and raised the Pride Flag on Parliament Hill for the first time.
  3. Official Apology
    Made a formal apology on behalf of the Government of Canada to 2SLGBTQI+ Canadians who were wronged by federal legislation, policies, and practices.
  4. Legislation/Record Expungement
    Passed legislation to permanently destroy records of convictions involving consensual same-sex sexual activity that would be lawful today.
  5. Policy/Funding
    Launched the 2SLGBTQI+ Federal Action Plan to advance rights and equality, which included funding for community projects addressing healthcare barriers and newcomer support.
  6. Policy Change
    Worked with Health Canada and Canadian Blood Services to lift the blood donation ban for men who have sex with men.

Key Quotes

"I am on your side. I will fight for you, and I will fight with you."

Egale Identity Gala acceptance speech May 25, 2018 — Stating his commitment to the **LGBTQ** community while accepting an award for **advocacy**.

"To those fleeing persecution, terror & war, Canadians will welcome you, regardless of your faith. Diversity is our strength #WelcomeToCanada"

Twitter January 1, 2017 — Stating a broad commitment to welcoming newcomers and affirming diversity.

"We will support one another in our fight for equality. And Canada will stand tall on the international stage as we proudly advocate for equal rights for LGBTQ2 communities around the world."

Apology to LGBTQ2 Canadians remarks November 28, 2017 — Part of his official apology for historical federal wrongs.

"Where transgender people are protected by the law. A Canada where all prime ministers are proud to walk with the LGBT community during gay pride parades."

Laurent McCutcheon Award speech May 16, 2016 — Outlining his vision for **transgender rights** and **Pride** participation.

Related Positions

  • Feminism and Gender Equality Trudeau described his social policy as progressive and feminist, which aligns with the broader advocacy for gender and sexual diversity.
  • Immigration and Refugee Policy His stance on welcoming refugees, regardless of faith, connects to the principle of protecting vulnerable populations, including those persecuted for their sexual orientation or gender identity globally.

Criticism

Various Groups

Criticism was directed at the Liberal government for the persistence of what were described as discriminatory restrictions preventing sexually active gay men from becoming blood and organ donors, even while progress was being made.