Calgary (Rajeev Sharma): Liberal Leader Mark Carney spoke out about LGBTQ+ rights for the first time in the campaign, addressing the pressing issue of gender-affirming care during a stop in Calgary on April 9. Until then, his party had largely remained silent on 2SLGBTQ+ issues, focusing instead on the economic consequences of US President Donald Trump’s tariffs on Canada.
Dylan Robertson, a reporter with the Canadian Press, questioned Carney about his government’s stance on protecting access to gender-affirming care under the Canada Health Act and whether any action would be taken to address the “backsliding” of rights for gender and sexual minorities.
In response, Carney emphasized his commitment to defending the rights of all Canadians, describing Canada as a diverse mosaic. He stated, “We are all Canadians, but we all have different identities and distinctions. One of the great strengths of this country is recognizing that people can be who they are, love who they love, and live where they are. It’s vital that the federal government upholds these rights, champions the Charter of Rights and Freedoms, and ensures that health care remains a fundamental right for all Canadians.”
Carney’s comments come as the Alberta government moves forward with Bill 26, legislation that would restrict access to gender-affirming care for transgender minors. The bill, expected to take effect later this year, would limit healthcare professionals from performing gender reassignment surgeries or prescribing puberty blockers to transgender youth, aiming to “preserve choice” for minors.
The bill has sparked legal challenges from two 2SLGBTQI organizations and five gender-diverse youth in Alberta. One of the organizations, Egale Canada, has been vocal in its opposition, calling the legislation a discriminatory step that could severely impact the rights, safety, and freedoms of 2SLGBTQI people in Alberta.
Egale Canada has warned that if similar bills continue to be introduced across the province, the consequences for transgender individuals could be devastating. The group’s work focuses on advancing public policy to support 2SLGBTQI communities and defending human rights through education and advocacy.
While the NDP has pledged to stand with transgender Canadians, issuing a statement on Transgender Visibility Day (March 31) asserting their commitment to defending access to gender-affirming care, Carney’s statement adds to the ongoing discourse surrounding the protection of LGBTQ+ rights.
The Surrey Now-Leader also reached out to the Conservative Party for a response but has yet to receive comment. More updates are expected.
