Lesbian, gay, bisexual, trans, queer, Two-Spirit plus (LGBTQ2S+) Yukoners and their allies are being asked to share their insights to help improve their inclusion in Government of Yukon programs and services. The government will be hosting community dialogues, in-depth focus groups and an online survey in a comprehensive, government-wide initiative to help ensure LGBTQ2S+ inclusion and non-discrimination.
A pre-engagement was held last spring, led by QMUNITY, a BC non-profit organization that works to improve the lives of LGBTQ2S+ people. The pre-engagement feedback helped to design a safe, dignified and inclusive engagement process that provides several ways to provide input.
LGBTQ2S+ Yukoners are valued members of our communities and this public engagement is an important component of our work to ensure that we, as a government, are setting standards for providing inclusive and non-discriminatory programs and services that meet the needs of all Yukoners.
Minister responsible for the Women’s Directorate Jeanie Dendys
We are excited to be continuing this important work on behalf of the Yukon government to help improve the lives of LGBTQ2S+ people in Yukon. I have had the privilege of meeting and building relationships with many LGBTQ2S+ Yukoners already, and I look forward to the important work ahead to ensure their voices are heard, centred and help inform Yukon government policies, programs and services in the future.
QMUNITY manager of programs and community engagement Joel Harnest
In October 2018 the Equality of Spouses Statute Law Amendment Act was granted assent. The Act is the next step toward making Yukon’s legislation non-discriminatory and inclusive of LGBTQ2S+ individuals. The bill modernizes existing legislation and speaks inclusively of all sexual orientations and gender identities.
The Gender Diversity Amendments Act was granted assent in April 2018. This Act helps promote more cultural, regional and gender diversity on four Government of Yukon boards and committees.
Amendments to the Yukon Human Rights Act and the Vital Statistics Act passed in June 2017 to protect transgender and gender non-conforming people from discrimination and provide them with better access to government services.
Janine Workman
Cabinet Communications
867-393-7449
janine.workman@gov.yk.ca
Stefanie Richardson
Communications, Women’s Directorate
867-667-8268
stefanie.richardson@gov.yk.ca