The Canadian government said on Tuesday that a law that made abortion legal for women and indecent assault legal for LGBTQ people would no longer be in effect. This change to the justice system will clear those convicted of these crimes.
According to a report by AFP and Reuters, the repealed rule prohibits LGBTQ (lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer) access to bathhouses, nightclubs, and swap clubs, all considered safe zones for the queer population.
“Canadians deserve non-discriminatory policies that put their safety first,” Minister of Women, Gender Equality, and Youth Affairs Ien said in a statement.
She stated that the Canadian government recognizes the unjust nature of previous laws and conventions and their impact on the rights of the LGBTQ community and women.
The 2018 Act permits the permanent removal of “historically unfair convictions.” It has allowed anyone with such convictions to request free expungement of their criminal records.
Applicants must disclose their convictions to be considered; if the convicted person is deceased, a family member or trustee may apply on their behalf.
