Calgary Pride is thrilled by the timely passing of Alberta Bill 7 this week, which amends the Alberta Human Rights Act to substitute "gender" with the more inclusive "gender, gender identity, gender expression". Alberta now joins the NWT, Saskatchewan, Manitoba, Ontario, PEI and Nova Scotia in recognizing gender identity and expression in provincial human rights legislation, a tremendous step forward for transgender and gender diverse individuals in our province who were previously not explicitly protected. Introduced by NDP MLA and Minister of Justice Kathleen Ganley, Bill 7: "Alberta Human Rights Amendment Act" passed first reading on November 19, subsequently received support from all parties, and unanimously passed third reading on December 7.
"It’s impossible to understate the significance of this amendment" says Amelia Marie Newbert, Director of Community Development for Calgary Pride and a member of Calgary’s transgender community. "Beyond formally recognizing and offering explicit protection to transgender and gender diverse individuals, it sends a profound message that the tide is beginning to turn in this province. It signals that celebrating gender identity, expression and all forms of diversity is a fundamental core value to this government and the people of this province."
Calgary Pride wishes to acknowledge and thank Premier Rachel Notley, Kathleen Ganley, and the entire Alberta Legislature for all of their work and support towards improving this province, as well as to the Trans Equality Society of Alberta (TESA) and all the individuals who shared, contributed, advocated and worked tirelessly to bring about this positive change.
While this is a substantial step, it is just one more step towards the larger goal of ending the violence, discrimination, and stigma against the transgender and gender diverse community. Fortunately, through their actions in passing this amendment, the Government of Alberta, on behalf of all Albertans, has clearly stated that this is a priority in Alberta, and they are committed to continuing to work hard towards a province and city free from discrimination.
Calgary Pride is a not for profit organization that advocates for the LGBTQA community in our city and promotes a society free from discrimination based on sexual orientation or gender identity.
Pride Calgary Planning Committee
www.pridecalgary.ca
@pridecalgary
Join us for Pride Week 2015 - August 28th to September 7th