JUNE 2009
O N E
TR@NZ
FREE
©
WEB BULLETIN DEDICATED TO THE ADAVANCEMENT AND THE DEMYSTIFICATION OF THE
The Persons case
TRANSEXUAL EXPERIENCE
The importance of the persons case participate in the federal
Although many people believe that a
cannot be underestimated.
government.
debate on gender identity and
Five women (known asThe famous
In 2009, eigthy years after that
expression is not necessary, that
five) appealed the supreme court
hsitorical decision, the trans
decision to the judicial Commitee of community is still looking for the the Privy council in England, at the
recognition of gender identity and
time, the highest court of appeal for
expression, in a modern society in
Canada. On October 18, 1929, after which gender is based on two
these realities do not warrant consideration, or that access to care for the trans community is not a priority in itself, I believe that they are wrong - everyone has a right to respect and dignity.
a long battle, the British Privy
predefined models.
Council ruled that «Yes, women are persons».
After eight decades, the member of Furthermore, the recognition of the trans community are still fighting gender identity and expression will to get access to appropriate health give trans persons the rights,
From that point, the Canadian
constitution would consider women care services and rights to protect as «persons», entitled to the same
them from harassment and
rights and liberties as men.
discrimination. It’s about time that
This case was not only a major
trans persons were considered
victory for women’s rights but it also opened the way for women to
«persons» under the law.
respect, and pride they so greatly deserve.
Maxime Le May