Equal Marriage

Egale Lobbying Kit

Introduction

Equal marriage rights could be within our grasp!

Not that long ago, homosexuality was a criminal offence, we were treated as mentally ill, the federal government conducted campaigns to fire us from the public service, there was only limited human rights protection and no recognition of same-sex relationships.

Our communities have come a long way in our struggle. In the last ten years we have been granted most of the rights and obligations of opposite-sex couples. But still our love for each other is deemed unworthy of marriage.

Imagine growing up in a society where same-sex relationships are not only tolerated, but celebrated. Our love is real. Our families are real. With your help we can persuade the federal government to acknowledge this reality and provide equal marriage rights to same-sex couples.

Background

History changed in Canada on July 12, 2002, when an Ontario court ruled that denying same-sex couples the equal right to marry is unconstitutional, and gave the federal government two years to change the law. Two months later, a Quebec court reached a similar conclusion.

Federal Justice Minister Martin Cauchon appealed those court decisions—but he also announced that the House of Commons Justice and Human Rights Committee would hold an unprecedented series of public hearings to receive input from Canadians on whether the government should maintain the ban on same-sex marriage—or change the law to provide us with equality.

What’s up?

Towards the end of last year, the Justice Department released a discussion paper on same-sex marriage. It outlines three options for the Justice and Human Rights Committee to review.

The Committee will begin public hearings in Ottawa on January 28, and will likely travel across Canada after that.

Egale is Canada's national organization committed to advancing equality and justice for lesbians, gays, bisexuals and transgendered people, and their families. We recognize that not everyone wants to get married—but we believe that’s a choice each couple is entitled to make for themselves, not one to be denied to us because the government feels our relationships are not worthy. It’s time to put an end to discrimination.

This is where you come in. Egale is calling you to action.

What’s next?

This kit will give you the tools you need to make a difference. Enclosed you will find:

• What you can do to help;
• Egale same-sex marriage position statement;
• Contact info for Ministers, MPs and members of the Justice and Human Rights Committee;
• Sample letter to MPs;
• Petition in support of equal marriage.

We need your help at this crucial time in our struggle for equality. It’s time to: get engaged!

Egale Canada ©2011

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