LGBTQ Canadians and the Ottawa connection
In a previous column I mentioned the appointment, last November, of Edmonton Centre MP Randy Boissonnault, as the LGBTQ special adviser to the prime minister. This is a huge step by our prime minister to give the LGBTQ community a voice in Ottawa.
Before the appointment I had written to Justin Trudeau, Justice Minister Jody Wilson-Raybould and Central Nova MP Sean Fraser suggesting a federal department be established, or some sort of committee to deal with issues facing the LGBTQ citizens in this country. I pointed to the need to have dialogue with those inside and outside the LGBTQ community and the ongoing strife with homophobia, biphobia and transphobia, resulting in discrimination nation-wide.
We have made gains and we celebrate the changes in the laws of the land and appreciate those who support us. Our allies, friends and families are our support and on many occasions join in raising awareness to recognize the diverse society of which we are all part, humankind. This is not to say that the government paid any attention to my questions, but nevertheless, I did hear from Mr. Trudeau’s office, as well as Minister Wilson-Raybould, indicating strong support for the LGBTQ community.
On Feb. 10, I received a call from Mr. Boissonault, seeking some ideas, concerns and suggestions that may be of some assistance to him. In this new role as LGBTQ adviser, he will be travelling across this country to gather information, on a local and national level, that are of daily concerns.
Kudos to the Liberal government for establishing this new position in the government, the only one in the world that deals with LGBTQ issues. Mr. Boissonnault told me he will be conferring with groups and individuals across the country, gathering ideas and words of advice from members of the LGBTQ community. Another promise is to issue an apology to gay and lesbian members of the Canadian Armed Forces who were booted out on the basis of sexual orientation. As well, many gays and lesbians were imprisoned just because it was a criminal offence – also worthy of an apology.
Much has to be accomplished and I am more optimistic than ever before that with federal representation we will realize increased awareness. I am of the opinion that as we move forward, our human rights will be respected, even with the knowledge that the battle is an uphill effort. It will take years and centuries, but we must forge on with as much positivity as we are able to muster.
I am proud to be in this country where I moved in 1954 from The Netherlands, at a time when “heterosexuality” was the only sexual orientation considered “normal” and anything aside from that was deemed criminal. We live in a world where discrimination reigns supreme against so many, such as the Muslim community, here and around the globe, as attacks and killings occur regularly.
When will it end? lgbtconnectionsgv@gmail.com.