The Government of Québec celebrates the International Day Against Homophobia and Transphobia

QUÉBEC CITY, May 17, 2018 – Today, the Government of Québec is proud to recognize the International Day Against Homophobia and Transphobia, which this year is focusing on the theme of LGBT rights around the world. For the occasion, in solidarity with sexual and gender minorities, the Parliament Building is flying the rainbow flag.

Stéphanie Vallée, Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Québec, presented a motion to the National Assembly as Minister responsible for the fight against homophobia. This motion reiterates the actions taken by the Government of Québec to encourage the full recognition of LGBT rights and increase the public’s understanding of and openness to sexual and gender diversity.

Quotes: 

Thanks to the initiative of the Fondation Émergence, it is here, in Québec, that the International Day Against Homophobia and Transphobia was born, and today it is celebrated in many countries around the world. In recent years, our government and LGBT community organizations have taken several measures that prove that Québec is a leader in this area. Together, let’s build a new Québec that is fairer and more equitable.

– Philippe Couillard, Premier of Québec

This international day is an opportunity to celebrate the advances that improve the legal and social equality of sexual minorities. Every human being has the right to live in a safe and inclusive environment. We all have a role to play to change attitudes, particularly by encouraging our peers and our entourage to combat any form of discrimination.

– Stéphanie Vallée, Minister of Justice, Attorney General of Québec and Minister responsible for the fight against homophobia

Even today, homosexuality is criminalized in 72 countries. This reality reminds us of the importance of taking action, particularly on an international level, and that’s why this year’s theme, LGBT rights around the world, especially speaks to me. This theme, chosen by the Fondation Émergence, is directly inspired by Québec’s new International Policy, which encourages us even more to continue our strong commitment to this cause.

– Christine St-Pierre, Minister of International Relations and La Francophonie 

Key points: 

• The 2017-2022 Government Action Plan Against Homophobia and Transphobia was launched on this day last year to continue the commitments undertaken in the 2011-2016 action plan.
• Among the new features, this second action plan includes an international component to highlight the actions of the Government of Québec for the rights of LGBT people, to foster the exchange of best practices and to create partnerships abroad.
• This international undertaking is designed primarily to promote the advancement of the rights of LGBT people around the world. It is in line with Québec’s new International Policy (QIP) Québec on the World Stage: Involved, Engaged, Thriving.
• As provided by the new QIP, a human rights and freedoms envoy was appointed. She will be in charge of promoting the international exchange of expertise and best practices on the matter.
• These actions result in part form the Québec Policy Against Homophobia, introduced in 2009.

Related links:

• Government actions to combat homophobia and transphobia: www.justice.gouv.qc.ca/en/department/the-fight-against-homophobia-and-transphobia
• Québec’s International Policy: www.mrif.gouv.qc.ca/en/ministere/politique-internationale