February 13, 2007

Abstract: (Angus Reid Global Monitor) - Most Canadians believe sexual orientation rights are just as important as other existing rights, according to a poll by SES Research. 62 per cent of respondents would approve of the inclusion of sexual orientation equality rights in the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms.

(Angus Reid Global Monitor) - Most Canadians believe sexual orientation rights are just as important as other existing rights, according to a poll by SES Research. 62 per cent of respondents would approve of the inclusion of sexual orientation equality rights in the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms.

Additionally, 54 per cent of respondents think the courts, and not Parliament, should have the final decision on the topic of rights issues.

In 1977, Quebec became the first jurisdiction in Canada to amend the province's Charter of Human Rights to include sexual orientation as a prohibited ground for discrimination.

In July 2005, Canada legalized same-sex marriage. The legislation covers civil ceremonies, and states that no members of the clergy would be forced to perform a same-sex wedding unless they so desire. More than 12,000 marriage licenses have been issued to gay and lesbian couples in Canada.

In December 2006, the Canadian government—headed by Conservative prime minister Stephen Harper—introduced a motion which sought to "restore the traditional definition of marriage without affecting civil unions, and while respecting existing same-sex marriages." The motion was rejected in a 175-123 House of Commons vote.

Polling Data

As you may know, the Charter of Rights and Freedoms includes equality rights based on race, national or ethnic origin, colour, religion, sex, age and mental or physical disability. Do you support or oppose adding sexual orientation to the equality rights section of the Charter?

Support	62%
Oppose	29%
Unsure	9%

In your opinion, should the courts or Parliament have the final decision related to rights issues?

Courts	54%
Parliament	31%
Unsure	15%

Source: SES Research
Methodology: Telephone interviews with 1,002 Canadian adults, conducted from Nov. 5 to Nov. 9, 2006. Margin of error is 3.1 per cent.