Fostering Safety for All

May 16, 2025

May 17 is the International Day Against Homophobia, Biphobia, and Transphobia (IDAHOBIT), a global observance dedicated to combating discrimination and violence against 2SLGBTQIA+ individuals. This day serves as a poignant reminder of the ongoing struggle for equality, personal safety, and the importance of upholding human rights for all.

In Canada, we have made significant strides in protecting 2SLGBTQIA+ rights. In 1996, the Canadian Human Rights Act was amended to include sexual orientation as a prohibited ground of discrimination. Further progress was made in 2017 with the passage of Bill C-16, which added gender identity and gender expression to the Act, ensuring federal protection for transgender and gender-diverse individuals.

Nova Scotia has also demonstrated commitment to 2SLGBTQIA+ rights. The Human Rights Act explicitly prohibits discrimination based on sexual orientation, gender identity, and gender expression. In 2012 the Human Rights Act was amended to reinforce these protections and affirm the rights of transgender individuals within the province.  

Despite these legal protections, challenges persist. Efforts to roll back rights, instances of discrimination, harassment, and violence against 2SLGBTQIA+ individuals continue to occur, underscoring the need for ongoing education, advocacy, and policy enforcement.   It is also important to recognize that members of the 2SLGBTQIA+ community may experience additional disadvantages due to intersecting characteristics such as race, colour, national or ethnic origin, Indigenous identity or disability.  

Organizations such as human rights commissions, Egale Canada and the Youth Project play pivotal roles in promoting inclusivity and addressing systemic inequalities. IDAHOBIT serves as both a celebration of progress and a call to action. It encourages individuals, communities, and governments to reflect on the importance of equality and to recommit to fostering environments where everyone, regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity, can live free from discrimination and fear.

By acknowledging the significance of this day – and embracing the opportunity to learn and show support - Nova Scotians and Canadians can affirm their dedication to human rights and the ongoing pursuit of a more inclusive and equitable society.

The preceding is a statement from Joseph Fraser, Director & CEO of the Nova Scotia Human Rights Commission. 

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