Statement from New Democrat leader Jack Layton on pride

Happy Pride!

As Pride celebrations take place across Canada, I am proud to stand in solidarity with members of the gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgendered and transsexual communities, along with all my New Democrat colleagues.

The theme of Toronto’s Pride festivities this year coincides nicely with the theme of our recent election campaign – Dream Big. Don’t let anyone tell you that you can’t.

There are many reasons to celebrate this year, but let us not forget that LGBTT people around the world still suffer prejudice and discrimination, even to the point of violence and death. Our work is not done. New Democrats will continue pressing issues of concern to LGBTT Canadians, starting with the reintroduction of Bill Siksay’s Transgender Rights bill by our new LGBTT critic, Randall Garrison.

New Democrats will continue to press Canada to be a leader in international forums aimed at establishing full human rights and ending the persecution of LGBTT people around the world.

Pride festivals give us the opportunity to celebrate our accomplishments and look to the future. We can dream of a world that includes members of the LGBTT as equal without a second thought.

Canada can lead the way in making things better.