May 17, 2009
The PSAC Human Rights Program
PSAC Statement on the International Day Against Homophobia and Transphobia
May 17 is the International Day Against Homophobia and Transphobia. The Public Service Alliance of Canada (PSAC) stands in solidarity with the lesbian, gay, bisexual and trans communities in opposition to homophobia and transphobia.
This year marks the 40th anniversary of the decriminalization of homosexuality in Canada. Until 1969, it was a crime to be gay or lesbian in this country. Over the last forty years, LGBT communities have made significant progress in Canada.
Indeed, after decades of political and legal battles, gays and lesbians have won important protections against discrimination in human rights, legal recognition of same sex couples and equal marriage. These legal victories would not have been possible without the dedicated work of thousands of activists and volunteers, and without the financial support of the Court Challenges Program.
Since 1985, the Court Challenges Program has funded Egale Canada and other organizations fighting against laws and policies that violate the constitutional equality rights of gays and lesbians. In 2006, the Harper government abolished federal funding to this important program. On this day, we take this opportunity to denounce the Harper government's decision to eliminate funding to the Court Challenges Program.
PSAC has been a strong and solid supporter of the LGBT communities' struggle for equality. We have been, and we remain committed to protecting the rights of our LGBT members during the collective bargaining process. Over the years, we have managed to include very progressive language in our collective agreements enhancing the definition of family and ensuring that benefits were inclusive of our LGBT members.
But we know that despite the important victories that have been won over the years we still have to work hard to ensure that real equality is enjoyed by all. Lesbian, gay, bisexual and trans members of our communities still face the reality of homophobia and transphobia in their daily lives. Gay and trans bashing is still a frequent occurrence. Trans people have yet to win specific recognition in human rights law. They face overt discrimination in the workplace and society. Their right to access necessary medical procedures is precarious at best.
On May 17th we stand together to challenge homophobia and transphobia. This summer, Pride events will occur across the country and PSAC activists will be present amongst the ever increasing numbers of participants. Throughout the year, we will work together in solidarity with LGBT activists in the Canadian and the international labour movement. PSAC remains staunchly committed to fighting all forms of discrimination, because we truly understand that an injury to one is an injury to all.
Date Modified : 2010/01/29
