Canada

In Canada, same-sex couples can marry and adopt. Trans people can also access full coverage for most gender-affirming surgeries, as well as change their legal gender markers. However, this is not based on a system of self-determination in some provinces, perpetuating the medicalization of trans people’s identities. There is no law specifically protecting intersex minors from nonconsensual and medically unnecessary surgeries (IGM). Additionally, Canada’s criminal statute banning female genital mutilation and cutting includes an exception specifically allowing for IGM. Public acceptance of LGBTIQ people is high, and Pride events are held annually. There have been many openly LGBTIQ government officials. Canada has made efforts to legislate against conversion practices, but a 2021 law adopts a carceral approach and does not establish preventive measures to address root causes. Under the Canadian Human Rights Act, discrimination based on sexual orientation, gender identity, and gender expression is banned. Despite these legal protections, LGBTIQ people still face bullying, violence, and discrimination. A disproportionate number of unhoused youth identify as LGBTIQ. In addition, Black and queer people have documented discrimination disproportionately impacting their communities in Canada, especially in the workplace.

*Outright research indicates that the bodily autonomy of intersex people is not respected and protected in this country.