OTTAWA, ON March 21, 2013 – Bill C-279, which would add “gender identity” to the Canadian Human Rights Act as a prohibited ground for discrimination, passed its third and final reading in the House of Commons March 20 by a vote of 149-137. The League opposed this change, noting that it adds a somewhat vague and subjective category to what has traditionally been an objective list of characteristics. To add a category that is essentially self-defined could put employers and others who must help uphold human rights law in difficult position. Many legal experts agreed the transgendered already had protection under the prohibition against discrimination on the grounds of sex. The bill now heads to the Senate.
Transgender “bathroom bill” passes by 149-137, National Post, March 21, 2013
Gender identity bill passes in House of Commons, LifeSite News, March 20, 2013