(Photo: Reuters)
After following @sykochica and having read some very insightful posts, I am truly inspired by and respect those who face discrimination on a daily basis. Today, as I was surfing the web, I came across a couple of postivie news stories related to transgender inclusiveness from Canada that I'd like to share with you.
Candians Support Transgender Rights
A recent poll surveyed 1,416 Canadian adults and found that an overwhelming majority (84%) support adding gender identity as a prohibited ground for discrimination under the Canadian Human Rights Act. There are a few other stats thrown in as well, but when I read the headline and subsequent story I am reminded of why I am proud to be Canadian. We are a very welcoming and inclusive country. Sure, we have our share of issues and yes, discrimination is still widespread in some cases (especially towards First Nations), but for the most part we are a country that accepts people.
Ontario Minor hockey changes their transgender policies
This one was a few years in the making after a lawsuit was brought against Ontario minor hockey after a transgendered teen was denied access to the dressing room in 2013. Unfortunately for the teen, this also "outed" him as transgender and he suffered significant harassment and bullying as a result. I cannot imagine the pain and suffering that he had suffered at the hands of bullies. Hockey is our national pastime and everyone should have equal access to enjoy playing the game we love. These new inclusive policies that will go into place this year would not be happening without the courageous actions of this young man. Kudos to Hockey Canada's Ontario branch for doing the right thing and setting a precedence that all sport organizations should follow.
Do you have any good news stories to share? Please share in the comments below.
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Hi. You will probably like my post :)
Finding a balance between being out and accepting other people's uncomfortableness with being gay