Canadians for Equal Marriage

Ontario Federation of Labour

OFL Sends Letter of Support for Same-Sex Marriage to Prime Minister Paul Martin

Prime Minister:

I am writing to state the full support of the Ontario Federation of Labour and its affiliated unions for recognition and equal treatment towards legal marriage rights for same-sex partners. The struggle for rights for members of the gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender communities has been a slow step-by-step process as they fought and won individual rights and very recently limited forms of recognition of their families.

The labour movement is proud of the role we played in furthering the struggle for equal rights for our gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender members and their families. We have clearly shown that we will fight for the rights of gay and lesbian workers at the bargaining table, in the courts and in the Legislature.

We believe strongly in full legal rights for gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender people. A cornerstone to those fundamental rights must be full legal marriage rights for same-sex partners where ever they may live in Canada. It is time for government and all members of the House to show leadership in this area of human rights.

Today, courts in seven provinces and one territory, representing 87 per cent of Canada's population, have ordered that same-sex couples be included in civil marriage. The Supreme Court's response to the government's questions was clear on the right of the federal government to act on this matter.

Canada prides itself, both nationally and internationally, on its human rights record. We call on you to act quickly to introduce legislation and work with the NDP, BLOC and, if possible, the Conservatives to ensure speedy passage. Time and time again the courts rule that equality for gay men and lesbians is a constitutional right. It's well past time to ensure these rights are real, in all parts of Canada.

OFL president Wayne Samuelson January 21, 2005
letter to Prime Minister Paul Martin