Amendment Introduced to Human Rights Act, 2010
Promotes Inclusion and Well-being of All Residents

Provincial Government Clarifies Language around Discrimination Based on Gender Identity and Gender Expression

The Honourable Darin King, Minister of Justice, today introduced an amendment to the Human Rights Act, 2010 that will further enhance the legislation against discrimination in Newfoundland and Labrador. Prohibiting discrimination based on gender identity and gender expression not only protects some of the most vulnerable residents of the province, but it also promotes the inclusion of all members of society and increases discussion around gender-based issues.

“This government recognizes the challenges that the Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgendered and Queer (LGBTQ) community often face and our goal is for a society that openly accepts all residents of Newfoundland and Labrador. Discrimination cannot be tolerated and any time we can strengthen legislation in the province that promotes equality in Newfoundland and Labrador, it is a positive move.”
- The Honourable Darin King, Minister of Justice

Currently, complaints of discrimination based upon gender identity and gender expression are accepted by the Human Rights Commission of Newfoundland and Labrador under the prohibited ground of sex. Specifically adding gender identity and gender expression clarifies the Human Rights Act, 2010 and acknowledges the challenges that some members of the LGBTQ community may face.

“Newfoundland and Labrador is a modern, growing and vibrant province. We accomplished a significant milestone when we introduced the new Human Rights Act, 2010. Since that time, we have been monitoring the legislation and identifying ways to enhance it for the betterment of individuals, families and communities. We are seeing the results of that effort with this amendment.”
- Minister King

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

• An amendment is being made to the Human Rights Act, 2010 to expressly include gender identity and gender expression as grounds for discrimination.
• A new Human Rights Act, 2010 was adopted by Newfoundland and Labrador in June 2010.
• With this amendment, Newfoundland and Labrador joins other jurisdictions including Ontario, Manitoba, Nova Scotia, Prince Edward Island and the Northwest Territories to include such language in its legislation.

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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 21                                     3:25 p.m.