The Expungement Act was a centrepiece of the federal government’s apology to LGBTQ2 Canadians. But figures indicate only nine people have successfully had their convictions cleared.
Few trans kids in the early 20th century had access to information about trans life. That they still faced down the judgment of parents and doctors is a testament to the truth of their dysphoria.
Because little scientific evidence exists for trans medical treatments, doctors are often wary when working with trans people, even if they realize it’s in the patients’ best interests to do so.
Transgender youth have a number of research-backed medical options available to them. The multidisciplinary approach ranges from promoting family support to hormone treatments to surgery.
To release anyone, particularly Indigenous women, transgender and Two-Spirit individuals without a plan is irresponsible and dangerous and does not demonstrate a commitment to reconciliation.
We need to commit to creating safe and inclusive environments for trans and non-binary youth, because when they have those supportive environments, they thrive.
From a safety and fairness standpoint, the new guidelines are reasonable and supported by evidence. They are the best way forward, not just for rugby, but for all sports.
Although the terminology we now use to describe gender would have been alien in the 18th and early 19th centuries, the concepts were understood by many.