Trans rights rally in Montreal focuses on supporting migrants
Third annual march asks for transgender immigrants to have the option of changing gender on paper
A rally in Montreal for transgender rights focused on the restrictions that trans migrants face when forced to legally identify themselves.
Though the group acknowledges that gains have been made expanding trans rights in recent years, it wants to see changes to Section 71 of the Quebec Civil Code.
As it's currently written, the section doesn't allow migrants to change their name or their sex on official documents if they are not Canadian citizens. The group wants the citizenship criteria eliminated.
"Trans migrants come from other countries where they are threatened with death and where they are threatened with extreme cases of oppression. They want to have a better life," said Daniela Brike, spokesperson for march organizer Gender Euphoria.
The march began at Place de la Paix, otherwise known as Peace Park, on St-Laurent Boulevard, just south of Ste-Catherine Street. It ended at Charles S. Campbell Park in the Gay Village.
Trans minor law on the way
In May the National Assembly tabled a bill allowing trans minors to change their gender designation. It hasn't been voted into law, but Justice Minister Stéphanie Vallée said all parties have agreed to it in principle.
Quebec Solidaire MNA Manon Massé wants to see trans migrants given the same rights.
"The society is maybe ready for children, not for migrants, I don't know exactly why," Massé said at the march.
If the government doesn't take a step in that direction, she said she will introduce a bill specifically for migrants.
Rally in its 3rd year
This is the third year the rally, which is organized by Gender Euphoria, has taken place.
Gender Euphoria is also calling for a number of other changes in the way trans migrants are treated in Canada:
- Ending the deportation of trans migrants.
- Allowing trans migrants to avoid detention centres.
- More funding for organizations who assist trans people.
- Access to social and healthcare services for trans migrants, especially those services not covered by the RAMQ.
with files from The Canadian Press and Radio-Canada