Edmonton lab worker fired for being gay wins new charter protections for all canadians.
April 1, 2018
On April 1, 1998, the Supreme Court of Canada overturned a lower court ruling and ruled that it was illegal for Canadians to face discrimination based on their sexual orientation. It was a landmark ruling that expanded the Charter of Rights and Freedoms into new territory and offered legal protection for Canada’s LBGTQ2SI community. Canada’s unions have a long history…
Canada’s unions welcome apology to LGBTQ2SI community
November 28, 2017
Canada’s unions are welcoming today’s apology for the so-called National Security purge that saw the decades-long government-sanctioned and systematic persecution of LGBTQ2SI workers. “This is a good day for Canada’s LGBTQ2SI workers, and for all those who tirelessly pushed for justice,” said CLC President Hassan Yussuff. “In particular we should acknowledge the relentless advocacy of many unions who fought for…
October 7, 2017 will mark the 10th anniversary of the World Day for Decent Work, a day when unions around the world unite in action for decent work. What is “decent work”? Access for all workers to quality jobs, dignity, equality, and safe working conditions. Putting workers at the centre of development and giving them a voice in what they do.…
Canada’s unions celebrate Pride, committing to work for more justice
June 1, 2017
Over the next few months, Canada’s unions will join others in communities across Canada to celebrate Pride and support LGBTQ2SI equality and justice. While Pride is a time to celebrate, it is also a time for reflection and activism. Pride originated in response to the police crackdown on LGBTQ2SI spaces like the 1981 bath house raids in Toronto. “It is…
Change needed federally to protect LGBTQ community
May 17, 2017
May 17 is the International Day against Homophobia, Transphobia and Biphobia (IDAHOT), a day which marks the anniversary of the World Health Organization’s (WHO) decision to remove homosexuality from its list of mental disorders and illnesses. This year, Canada’s unions hope to see the passing of Bill C-16, a legislation that would protect both gender identity and gender expression under…
Unions are joining trans Canadians and their allies celebrating the settlement of a landmark human rights complaint today. The settlement resolves a complaint launched in 2011 by Christin Milloy (“she/her”), a trans activist from Toronto, against Employment and Social Development Canada (ESDC). “What we see today is an important recognition by government that it is inappropriate to collect data about…
In remembrance, we work to end anti-trans violence and prejudice
November 18, 2016
Each year on November 20 we mark the Transgender Day of Remembrance, to honour those killed as a result of anti-trans hatred or prejudice and to bring attention to continued transphobic violence and discrimination in our communities. Each year, since 1999, we look at the names, faces, and stories of those killed. Sadly, despite increased trans visibility, the statistics remain…
Bill C-32 a good first step, more must still be done to protect LGBTQ community
November 15, 2016
Canada’s unions are pleased that the federal government is taking steps to end discrimination against the LGBTQ community with the move to repeal section 159 of the Criminal Code and the appointment of a Special Advisor on LGBTQ issues. Today Minister of Justice Jody Wilson-Raybould announced Bill C-32 which would repeal section 159 of the Criminal Code, a law which…
Pride season is upon us and Canadian unions are proud to have been a part of the effort for LGBTQ equality and justice for many years. Canada’s unions have fought for inclusive language in collective agreements in diverse workplaces across Canada to promote equality and protect and empower workers. And some of the very first legislation in Canada around same-sex…
IDAHOT 2016: unions take a stand against homophobia, transphobia and biphobia
May 16, 2016
May 17 is the International Day against Homophobia, Transphobia and Biphobia (IDAHOT), one of the largest global LGBTQ solidarity actions. This day marks the anniversary of the World Health Organization’s (WHO) decision to remove homosexuality from its list of mental disorders and illnesses. There are worldwide celebrations of sexual and gender diversity and events taking place in hundreds of countries. This is…