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Justice
November 7, 2013

Province to Strengthen Human Rights Act
to Help Ensure the Well-being of All Residents

Prohibited Grounds of Discrimination to Include Gender Identity and Gender Expression

The Honourable Darin King, Minister of Justice, today announced that he will be introducing an amendment to the Human Rights Act, 2010 during this session of the House of Assembly. The amendment will expand the prohibited grounds of discrimination to include gender identity and gender expression.

“Discrimination in any form is wrong. This amendment is important to enhancing public education and dialogue around issues of the Lesbian, Bisexual, Gay, Transgendered and Queer community in the province. Creating a climate of understanding and mutual respect is important to this government and we must all strive to ensure that each person, regardless of their gender identity or gender expression, feels a part of their community.”
- The Honourable Darin King, Minister of Justice

The Human Rights Act, 2010 was introduced following extensive, province-wide consultations. As part of that legislation, discrimination against people because of gender identity or gender expression was covered under the general grounds of sex. This amendment will clarify and strengthen the Act and Newfoundland and Labrador will become just the fifth jurisdiction in Canada to include such language in its human rights legislation.

The Government of Newfoundland and Labrador is committed to supporting important social programs, strong communities and the health and well-being of children, families and seniors.

QUICK FACTS

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Media contact:
Luke Joyce
Director of Communications
Department of Justice
709-729-6985, 725-4165
lukejoyce@gov.nl.ca 

2013 11 07                                     2:40 p.m.

 
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