"We, Canada and the undersigned Diplomatic Missions, join together once again as Diplomats for Equality to express our solidarity and support for two-spirit, lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, intersex and all other queer persons in Canada and around the world.
Since its foundation in 2016, the Equal Rights Coalition has continuously strengthened the human rights of 2SLGBTQIA+ people and promoted inclusive development in both member and non-member countries by working with civil society organizations, multilateral institutions and activists from around the world.
We reaffirm our unwavering commitment to provide access to justice for all persons regardless of their gender identity and expression, sexual orientation or sex characteristics.
Human rights and the principles of dignity and equality of all people are universal. Human rights are for everyone, without exception: 2SLGBTQIA+ people are just as entitled to protection. The Equal Rights Coalition, through which countries collaborate to further the cause of universal and unalienable human rights for all, is one example of how states from all regions around the world can unite to improve our collective future by safeguarding each and every individual's rights. We stand as allies to all people who wish to be who they are and love whom they love.
Many communities and individuals around the world are increasingly suffering the consequences of growing hostility, disinformation and phobia directed at them - online and offline - because of their sexual orientation, gender identity and expression, or sex characteristics.
We express our concern with the increase in anti-rights movements that operate in various interlinked ways, such as the many legislative attempts to criminalise advocacy for equal rights, endangering the lives of 2SLGBTQIA+ people in various jurisdictions, as well as those aimed at threatening access to and availability of gender-inclusive medical care and treatment.
We state that the protection of these rights is essential for strengthening social cohesion, the well-being of our citizens and our democracy. We will therefore take decisive action against the restriction of the rights of 2SLGBTQIA+ people, denounce inhumane tightening of the law, and provide solidarity and assistance to those affected in the countries concerned. We will leave no one behind.
We firmly believe that inclusive and diverse countries will always be more prosperous, peaceful, and secure. We are certain that only free, pluralistic societies with equal rights for all are best placed to tackle current global and geopolitical challenges. They are best able to do so, even in uncertain times of multiple crises.
We firmly believe that justice and freedom are directly bound together. 2SLGBTQIA+ rights are based on these two essential principles. In this context, we honor the bravery shown by defenders of human rights advocates, activists, reporters and journalists, civil society groups and businesses who tirelessly strive to promote awareness about the challenges the 2SLGBTQIA+ community faces.
As representatives of our respective governments, we listen, we learn and we act to support our collective fight against homophobia, biphobia, interphobia and transphobia at home and around the world.
The power of our solidarity and our collective commitment to the rights of 2SLGBTQIA+ people has never been more important. Our governments will continue to work together to safeguard these rights in our societies and embrace diversity, equity and inclusion for the good of all.
We stand, diverse yet united, ready to work together at all times, and beyond the Ottawa Diplomatic community, to fight injustice and promote equal rights for all.''
Endorsed by:
- Embassy of Austria
- Embassy of Belgium
- Embassy of Brazil
- British High Commission Ottawa
- Embassy of Chile
- Embassy of Denmark
- Embassy of Estonia
- Embassy of France
- Embassy of Finland
- Embassy of Germany
- Embassy of Iceland
- Embassy of Ireland
- Embassy of Lithuania
- Malta High Commission
- Embassy of Mexico
- Embassy of the Netherlands
- Embassy of Norway
- New Zealand High Commission
- Embassy of Portugal
- Embassy of Slovenia
- Embassy of Spain
- Embassy of Sweden
- Embassy of Switzerland
- Embassy of the United States of America
