Ottawa—Egale Canada celebrates the fact that a majority of Parliamentarians elected in yesterday’s federal election support equality and the values represented by the Charter of Rights and Freedoms. At the same time, Canada’s national advocacy organization for lesbian, gay, bisexual and trans-identified people issued a warning that it is not taking anything for granted.
“In the face of powerful, newly-united opponents to equality, Egale Canada and its partner group Canadians for Equal Marriage, were successful in placing human rights on the electoral agenda,” declared Gilles Marchildon, Egale’s Executive Director. “Canadian voters chose a majority of Parliamentarians that believe in diversity,” he said. “This demonstrates that the obvious winner of the election is Canada’s Charter of Rights and Freedoms. The country’s citizens are well-served.”
“Nonetheless, this election serves as a wake-up call,” continued Marchildon. “Canadians who cherish the value of equality need to guard against complacency. The campaign has shown that nothing can be taken for granted.” Marchildon adds: “Stephen Harper’s Conservatives are stronger and will continue to hide their full agenda until they can persuade Canadian voters to give them a chance next time.”
“With the Liberal government in a minority position,” says Egale’s Vice-President, Gemma Hickey from St. John’s Newfoundland, “there may soon be another federal election. We therefore need to continue raising the profile of human rights and equality issues.”
“Paul Martin has spoken clearly and strongly in favour of full equality for gay and lesbian Canadians, including equal marriage,” said Laurie Arron, Egale’s Director of Advocacy. “Now he must follow through on that commitment. The Liberals will be supported by the NDP and the Bloc, as well as at least one Conservative. Egale and its partner Canadians for Equal Marriage will be continually reminding MPs that Canadians support equality as expressed in our Charter.”
For more info:
Gilles Marchildon, 613-230-1043 (o), 613-864-1133 (c)
Gemma Hickey, 709-690-5244
Laurie Arron, 416-928-1238 (o), 416-839-7178 (c)
Egale Canada ©2007