Prime Minister Justin Trudeau hugs Veteran's Affairs Minister Seamus O'Regan after making a formal apology to individuals harmed by federal legislation, policies, and practices that led to the oppression of and discrimination against LGBTQ2 people in Canada, in the House of Commons in Ottawa, Tuesday, Nov.28, 2017. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Adrian Wyld
Republished November 28, 2017 - 2:18 PM
Original Publication Date November 28, 2017 - 1:21 PM
OTTAWA - Key initiatives flowing from the federal apology to members of the LGBTQ2 community:
— Settlement of a class-action lawsuit, with $110 million to compensate federal public servants, including members of the Canadian Armed Forces and RCMP who endured discriminatory policies and practices.
— $20 million for legal fees and administration associated with the settlement.
— $15 million for projects including museum exhibits based on the stories of affected federal employees, a national monument in Ottawa, an education package and possibly archival initiatives.
— Consultations with a non-government expert to improve diversity training in the federal public service.
— Legislation to expunge criminal convictions for consensual same-sex activity.
— Commemoration of the 50th anniversary of the 1969 decriminalization of homosexual activity.
— A Canadian Armed Forces project to promote a safe and inclusive workplace through a volunteer and peer-based support group for LGBTQ2 community members.
— A toll-free support number (1-800-487-7797) and a specialized unit to respond to inquiries from affected members of the Armed Forces and RCMP.
— $250,000 for projects to build resiliency within LGBTQ2 communities and to provide peer-led crisis support.
News from © The Canadian Press, 2017