Tuesday, January 25, 2005

The Right Honourable Paul Martin, P.C., M.P.
Prime Minister of Canada
Office of the Prime Minister
80 Wellington Street
Ottawa, Ontario
K1A 0A2

Dear Prime Minister:

I am writing to give the unqualified support of the Ontario Federation of Labour for recognition and equal treatment of legal marriage rights for same-sex partners. The struggle for equal 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 for their families.

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

The Federation strongly believe in full legal rights for gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender people. A cornerstone for these fundamental rights must be full legal marriage rights for same-sex partners wherever they live in Canada. It is time for the federal government to show leadership in this area of basic human rights.

Today, courts in seven provinces and one territory (representing 87% of Canada’s population) have ordered that same-sex couples be included in equal marriage legislation. The Supreme Court of Canada in its response to the government queries 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. The Ontario Federation of Labour calls on you to quickly introduce legislation and, working with the New Democratic Party, the BLOC Québécois and, if possible, the Conservative Party of Canada, to ensure speedy passage. Time and time again, the court has ruled that equality for gay men and women is a constitutional right. It is well past time to ensure that these rights are enshrined in all parts of Canada.

Your truly,

Wayne Samuelson
President

CC:
Ethel Birkett-LaValley, Irene Harris, OFL
Jack Layton, Leader, New Democratic Party
Stephen Harper, Leader, Conservative Party of Canada
Gilles Duceppe, Leader, BLOC Québécois
Marie Clarke-Walker, Vice-President, Canadian Labour Congress
OFL Solidarity & Pride Committee