Note: This resource provides a high-level overview of how each level of government intersects with 2SLGBTQI communities in Canada. Please note that there are many nuances and complexities in the roles and responsibilities of different levels of government and may vary by region or evolve over time.
In Canada, there are three levels of government: federal, provincial/territorial, and municipal. Each level has distinct responsibilities that impact various aspects of daily life, including laws, services, and policies that affect 2SLGBTQI communities.
From federal human rights protections to provincial healthcare policies and municipal community programs, government decisions shape the lived experiences of 2SLGBTQI people across the country. Understanding these intersections is crucial for advocating for inclusive policies, accessing necessary services, and ensuring that every level of government is held accountable in advancing 2SLGBTQI rights.
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This resource outlines how federal, provincial, and municipal policies influence 2SLGBTQI rights, services, and protections.
Federal Government
The federal government, led by the Prime Minister, oversees national and international matters. It is responsible for defense and national security, foreign affairs, immigration, and citizenship. It also regulates banking, telecommunications, and criminal law.
Other key areas include employment insurance, pensions, postal services, and Indigenous affairs. The federal government also plays a role in environmental regulations and managing national parks.
The federal government plays a crucial role in shaping 2SLGBTQI rights and protections across Canada. It sets nationwide laws, policies, and funding that impacts human rights. By preserving protections in the Charter of Rights and Freedoms and upholding the Criminal Code, the federal government ensures fundamental rights for 2SLGBTQI people
Relating to 2SLGBTQI people:
- Protects 2SLGBTQI rights in the Criminal Code and the Charter of Rights and Freedoms
- Funds national programs for 2SLGBTQI health, advocacy, and inclusion
- Recognizes same-sex marriage (since 2005)
- Handles asylum claims for LGBTQ refugees fleeing persecution
Examples:
The passing of Bill C-16 (2017) added gender identity and expression to human rights protections.
Funding for Pride organizations & community groups
Provincial/Territorial Government
Provincial and territorial governments, led by Premiers, manage areas that directly impact residents at the regional level. Their responsibilities include healthcare, education, and social services. They regulate labour laws, property rights, and natural resources such as forestry and energy. Transportation infrastructure, including highways and transit, also fall under their jurisdiction. Additionally, provinces oversee civil law matters like family law and consumer protection. Some provinces have their own police forces, such as the Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) and the Sûreté du Québec (SQ).
Some provincial services may be also have additional funding or initiatives by the federal government as the federal government has jurisdiction over interprovincial and international infrastructure such as pipelines that cross provincial or national borders.
Provinces and territories are responsible for many of the daily services that directly impact 2SLGBTQI people, including healthcare, education, and human rights protections. They regulate access to gender-affirming care, inclusion in schools, and additional legal protections beyond federal laws. The decisions
made at this level can significantly shape the lived experiences of 2SLGBTQI individuals in different regions.
Relating to 2SLGBTQI people:
- Healthcare: Gender-affirming care, PrEP coverage, access to 2SLGBTQI-inclusive healthcare
- Education: 2SLGBTQI-inclusive
curriculum, Gender and Sexuality
Alliances (GSAs) in schools - Human Rights Codes: Provinces
can add extra protections beyond
federal laws
Examples:
Ontario and BC covergender-affirming surgeries under public healthcare
Alberta’s restrictions on access to gender-affirming care for trans and gender diverse young people
Saskatchewan’s “Use of Preferred First Name and Pronouns by Students” policy
Municipal Government
Municipal governments, led by Mayors, handle local services and community needs. This includes policing, fire services, public transit, water supply, and waste management. They also manage zoning and urban planning, libraries, parks, and recreation facilities. Local governments play a crucial role in addressing homelessness, running shelters, and food banks.
Local governments influence the everyday realities of 2SLGBTQI people through community-based policies, funding, and public services. From supporting Pride events and 2SLGBTQI community centres to implementing inclusive policies in policing and housing, municipalities play a key role in fostering safer and more inclusive cities and towns across Canada.
Relating to 2SLGBTQI people:
- Pride events and funding for community spaces
- Policing and by-laws (e.g., Pride crosswalks and flags)
- Access to shelters and housing support for 2SLGBTQI people
Examples:
Some municipalities have 2SLGBTQI advisory roles or committees to act on community concerns
Many municipalities across the country have permanent Pride crosswalks as symbols of inclusion
This resource is part of Egale Canada’s work to combat anti-2SLGBTQI hate. Use Egale’s Rainbow Action Hub to find more resources and tools to combat the rise of anti-2SLGBTQI hate.