Preserving the rights of all Canadians
The deliberate exclusion from Canada’s citizenship guide of the country’s laws regarding same-sex marriage and discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation sends a dangerous message of intolerance to the public and establishes this guide as a personal position paper, not a Canadian document.
Our country’s Charter of Rights and Freedoms and our recognition of same sex marriage are admired across the globe as demonstrations of the humanity and strength of Canadian policies. Several of the newcomer clients we serve in our LGBTQ counselling programs have escaped regimes with aggressively hostile homophobic policies. They have chosen Canada for many reasons, not the least of which is our strong and equal human rights code that allows them to live without fear of abuse, discrimination or death because of their personal preferences.
The Minister’s actions unequivocally relegate these rights to a second tier of importance, a slippery slope when it comes to human freedoms, and one that diminishes gains hard fought for by millions of Canadians. Every Canadian – especially those in parliament – needs to be aware that our country does not tolerate such discrimination. These inalienable rights should not only be acknowledged but celebrated by our citizens, particularly those in political power. This is an unacceptable act of oppression – the thin edge of a wedge that strikes at the heart of Canada’s identity. At best, it is unbefitting of a person charged with welcoming new Canadians to our country.
Margaret Hancock
Executive Director
Family Service Toronto
