Quebec LGBT Council Fears a Rollback of Rights in Quebec

A Clear Message Ahead of the Gender Identity Report

As the committee of experts on gender identity prepares to submit its report at the end of the month, the Quebec LGBT Council is expressing serious concerns. Its executive director, James Galantino, emphasizes the importance of safeguarding progress: “We expect that there will be no rollback of our rights and no reduction in access to services,” he says with apprehension.

A Concerning Social Climate

Although Minister Suzanne Roy has assured that there are no plans to reconsider existing rights, the rise of hate speech and intolerance is fueling fears. Galantino notes that certain public statements in Canada echo those in the United States, where trans rights were significantly curtailed under the Trump administration.

“Even in Canada, in public and political discourse, we hear things that worry us and reflect what is happening in the U.S. […] Over there, trans people have been legally erased.” – James Galantino

During Donald Trump’s presidency, measures were implemented to limit the legal recognition of transgender identities, including the removal of non-binary passports and the exclusion of trans individuals from the military.

The Quebec LGBT Council Regrets Its Lack of Decision-Making Power

The Quebec LGBT Council laments that it was not involved in the selection of the committee of experts, established by the Legault government in December 2023. This committee is led by Diane Lavallée, former president of the Council on the Status of Women, alongside Dr. Jean-Bernard Trudeau, a former healthcare administrator, and human rights specialist Patrick Taillon.

Despite its advisory role, James Galantino regrets the absence of LGBTQ+ community representatives on the committee. He is unaware of what recommendations will be included in the final report but acknowledges the quality of discussions held in recent months.

Created in response to tensions following protests over the teaching of gender identity in 2023, the committee aims to provide an overview of the situation in Quebec and beyond. One of the controversies leading to its formation was the introduction of gender-neutral restrooms in a school in Rouyn-Noranda, a decision that sparked divided reactions.

Read also : LGBT+ Rights in Canada a Growing Fragility

Increasingly Limited Access to Healthcare

According to Galantino, issues surrounding the inclusion of trans and non-binary individuals have worsened since the committee was established. He specifically highlights difficulties in accessing specialized medical care.

“Our biggest concerns revolve around access to healthcare, hormone therapy, and surgery. In Quebec, it’s a desert. This is what is most at risk, especially for minors.” – James Galantino

He believes that many Quebec doctors are either uncomfortable or lack the expertise to provide care for trans patients, and that the current social climate is discouraging them from getting involved.

In light of this situation, he calls on the government and the committee of experts to ensure that the final report leaves no room for potential restrictions on LGBTQ+ rights.