A CANADA FOR "ALL CANADIANS"

STATEMENT FROM EGALE CANADA ON THE RESULTS OF THE 2011 FEDERAL ELECTION

Toronto: Out of the murky clamour of speeches, commentary and analysis encompassing the morning after, there is one line that must be isolated from the rest, raised as a standard throughout the next four years: "We are and we must be the government of all Canadians." Spoken by the newly re-elected Prime Minister Stephen Harper, it is a maxim that demands the dedication of every community and individual in the country. It is also a challenge that must be met with the active engagement of all Canadians both within the House and Commons and beyond.

The Prime Minister has vowed a swift return to the business of government, with immediate action in four priority areas. He has pledged comprehensive measures to reduce crime and make our streets and neighbourhoods safer. For members of Canada's diffuse and diverse LGBTQ community and their allies, the first litmus test of this and the Prime Minister's promise to "stand on guard for all," will be the explicit inclusion in the crime-prevention agenda of measures to protect trans Canadians from hate crimes, hate speech and discrimination by continuing the unprecedented work of the outgoing Parliament toward recognizing equality rights based on gender identity and expression. A bill comparable to C-389 must be re-introduced, and it is the responsibility of any government truly invested in representing all Canadians to show leadership on this front.

The full effects of this election are yet unknown. Certainly, governance in Canada has been dramatically altered. Egale Canada offers its congratulations to both the incoming and returning Members of Parliament, of government, and of the official opposition. Egale is eager to work with all members and parties to ensure the full and integrated inclusion of those concerns and aspirations that are most important to the LGBTQ community. Our community is one that crosses all geographies, identities, ideologies and political stripes. At this vital point in Canadian history, all must be diligent and assiduous in their commitment to equality, inclusivity and civic participation.

For more information:
Helen Kennedy, 416.964.7887 ext. 21

Egale Canada ©2011

Canada's LGBT human rights organization: advancing equality, diversity, education, and justice.