Collaborative Proposal Creation
Create, improve and sponsor proposals in a respectful, fully bilingual environment. Grow proposals in the "Hothouse", for promotion to the "Workshop", to become official GPC policy.
The Green Party of Canada recognizes that: trans men are men; trans women are women; there are many gender identities and expressions within, and outside of, the traditional gender binary of man and woman; a gender spectrum exists and is valid; and that gender identity, expression and chosen pronouns are to be respected.
Type of Proposal
Public policy that the party would represent
Objective / Benefit
This policy is drafted to bring us in line with our fellow Greens across the world to formally clarify our support for non-binary and trans Canadians and those with gender identities beyond the traditional identities of man and woman. Inspired by updates to the Green Party of England and Wales’ policy documentation and as a response to growing transphobia in Canada and elsewhere.
If your proposal replaces an existing policy or policies, which one does it replace?
This policy does not replace, but updates, an existing policy: G16-P011 - Advancing the Equality of LGBTQ+ Canadians
List any supporting evidence for your proposal
Green Party of England and Wales' Rights and Responsibilities (under Trans Rights): https://policy.greenparty.org.uk/our-policies/long-term-goals/rights-and-responsibilities/
Does this proposal affect any particular group and what efforts have been made to consult with the group or groups?
This proposal is designed to positively push for formal recognition of trans and non-binary people by the Green Party of Canada, and to instill formal recognition of gender identity. No direct contact has been made as of writing this proposal on August 5th, but the time crunch for proposals to gain sponsors leads me to put this out first and field consultation following, which may lead to further updates.
Jurisdiction: Is this proposal under federal jurisdiction?
Yes
Please indicate the language the proposal is being submitted in.
English
This proposal has been accepted because:
72.8% of members voted in favour of adopting this motion in the all-member vote.
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Shel, I very much understand your concerns about making sure every voice is heard, and it’s clear that you’re approaching this issue from a place of wanting the best for the party and its candidates. I can see how the visibility of your dissent is particularly important to you, not just as a procedural matter but because you feel it would create a more open, well-rounded discussion. Transparency is crucial in any democratic process, especially when it comes to proposals as impactful as this one.
However, I’d also like to encourage a perspective that centres true empathy for those whose lives are directly shaped by these affirmations. The statement “trans men are men; trans women are women” isn’t just a rhetorical phrase or slogan; it’s a fundamental acknowledgment that can have profound implications for the dignity and safety of transgender people. For many, the political sphere often feels inhospitable, even hostile, and seeing their identities explicitly affirmed can be a lifeline in the face of widespread misunderstanding and discrimination.
While I again hear your point about making this proposal more broadly acceptable, I believe that sometimes, holding onto principles that affirm our most marginalized members isn’t about provoking; it’s about standing in solidarity. This doesn’t mean dismissing valid dissent but rather elevating a shared commitment to inclusivity and respect—values our party strives to uphold.
Perhaps the way forward could be a balanced approach, where every perspective, including your dissent, is fully visible and heard, while also keeping a strong, unequivocal affirmation for transgender individuals as part of the proposal. This way, we remain true to the principles of transparency you champion while staying firmly aligned with our commitment to a just and inclusive society.
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