Canadian Values: Equality
Cheri DiNovo performed the first legal same-sex marriage registered in Canada in 2001. Same-sex marriage is seen as an important advancement in human rights in Canada. Before 2001, same-sex partners were denied the right to marry. While marriage equality is a significant advancement in human rights, the LGBTQ community in Canada still faces discrimination and oppression. Gay men who are sexually active are still banned from donating blood. Undercover Toronto Police recently targeted the LGBTQ community with “Project Marie,” and homophobia and transphobia are still very evident in Canada. While many Canadians value human rights, the existing oppression experienced by LGBTQ Canadians overshadows advancements such as same-sex marriage.