Ending Discrimination

First “gay rights” demonstration on Parliament Hill

August 28, 2018

On August 28, 1971 demonstrators presented a manifesto entitled “We Demand” that outlined a series of demands for equal rights for gays and lesbians. This was the first public march of its kind on Parliament Hill.

Summer is the time for Pride events and marches in Canada. But while these celebrations are now somewhat commonplace in many cities across the country, just over 45 years ago a small brave group of people marched on Parliament Hill to demand what was then referred to as “gay rights” in a manifesto entitled “We Demand”.

The labour movement in Canada has been, and continues to be, a strong ally and voice for LGBTQ2SI (Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Trans, Queer, 2-spirited, Intersex) rights and in fighting homophobia and transphobia in Canada – in the workplace and beyond. This includes:

  • Hosting committees and working groups to fight against homophobia, transphobia and harassment. Many unions have changed their own constitution to reflect this.
  • Negotiating a range of clauses in collective agreements that protect the rights of LGBTQ2SI workers above and beyond the law.
  • Bringing to court violations of LGBTQ2SI rights such as individual grievances and provisions such as marriage leave, leaves of absence, spousal benefits, and pensions plan benefits.
  • Mobilizing and lobbying to change laws including the Canadian Human Rights Act, equal benefits, employment equity, equal marriage and gender identity and gender expression.
  • Collaborating with civil society organizations, within Canada and internationally, to fight for LGBTQ2SI rights through awareness campaigns and active participation in events.

Some of the work being done by unions and the labour movement:

  • Ending Discrimination
  • Statement on the anniversary of the October 7 attacks

    October 7, 2024
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  • Ending Discrimination
  • True reconciliation requires meaningful action, not just symbolic gestures

    September 30, 2024
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  • Ending Discrimination
  • Global union leaders affirm support for Palestinian trade unions and the Palestinian people

    June 11, 2024
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  • Ending Discrimination
  • Pride 2024: No one left behind: Equality, freedom, and justice for all

    June 1, 2024
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  • Ending Discrimination
  • Canada must address systemic racism and discrimination in the workforce

    March 21, 2024
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  • Ending Discrimination
  • Pink Shirt Day: 2SLGBTQI+ kids should be free to be themselves

    February 28, 2024
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  • Social Justice and Democracy
  • Statement by Bea Bruske: Conservatives stand against workers

    February 7, 2024
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  • Ending Discrimination
  • Statement by Bea Bruske: Canada’s unions are calling out Alberta Premier’s attempt to use trans and gender-diverse children, youth and adults to score political points

    February 1, 2024
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  • Ending Discrimination
  • CLC Executive Committee reiterates its support for ITUC’s call for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza

    January 16, 2024
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