YT Government: Next phase of LGBTQ2S+ non-discrimination work to begin this spring

Press Release

March 26, 2018

The Government of Yukon is taking steps to design a public engagement on LGBTQ2S+ inclusion to ensure that government practices are meeting the needs and priorities of LGBTQ2S+ Yukoners.

This preliminary work will include working with stakeholder organizations to design a confidential public engagement process where LGBTQ2S+ Yukoners will feel safe to say what issues and priorities are most important to their daily health and well-being. There will also be an opportunity for individuals to provide their input on making this public engagement as inclusive, accessible and meaningful as possible.

At the same time, Government of Yukon is creating a new internal framework for improving coordination and collaboration on issues of LGBTQ2S+ equality and inclusion.

LGBTQ2S+ members of our community have – too often – been left on their own to take up the mantle of equality work and advocacy. We are sending a message that this community is no longer alone in this work. Strength lies in diversity and our government believes that everyone stands to benefit from the equality and inclusion of LGBTQ2S+ Yukoners in our communities.

Minister responsible for the Women’s Directorate Jeanie Dendys

We want to hear from the LGBTQ2S+ society as we work to become a more inclusive territory. Shifts in culture and practices take time, but these shifts are smoother and quicker when led by changes in our laws. All Yukoners deserve to be safe and included and this work aims to create a more equitable society for all.

Minister of Justice Tracy-Anne McPhee

Quick Facts

• The Government of Yukon will be hiring a contractor to help ensure the design of the public engagement process is inclusive, respectful and confidential. Experience engaging with LGBTQ2S+ communities will be a key consideration for awarding the contract.
• Outreach with LGBTQ2S+ stakeholders is expected to begin as early as April. In the meantime, anyone who would like to provide input on the design of the public engagement process can get in touch the Women’s Directorate (667-3030).
• These engagement activities are one part of a multifaceted approach to creating a more inclusive Yukon for LGBTQ2S+ citizens. Other steps this government has taken include amending the Vital Statistics Act and Human Rights Act in 2017, and introducing the Gender Diversity and Related Amendments Act in 2018.
• Continued engagement with LGBTQ2S+ organizations, individuals, families and allies will help the territorial government fulfill its commitment to make Yukon laws, policies, programs and services as non-discriminatory as possible.

Contact
Sunny Patch
Cabinet Communications
867-393-7478
sunny.patch@gov.yk.ca

Alex Hill
Communications, Women’s Directorate
867-667-8675
alex.hill@gov.yk.ca

Catherine Young
Communications, Department of Justice
867-667-8050
catherine.young@gov.yk.ca

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