About Canada: Queer Rights

by Peter Knegt

Questioning whether or not Canada is a “queer utopia,” this document reflects on the country’s growth of acceptance of the LGQBT lifestyles, speculating if it was truly the goal that queer activists hoped to achieve. Using the origins of the 1970s gay and lesbian liberation movement as a starting point, the history of the struggle for queer rights in Canada is highlighted, creating a clearer understanding of the present day. Covered topics include regional organizing; legal reform; institutional homophobia; children, youth, and education; health; and difference and privilege. Contending that Canada’s queer community is as diverse and multicultural as the country itself, this study also emphasizes that they are not easily generalized, arguing that they have not yet achieved equality.

Genres: Queer

144 pages, Paperback

First published September 1, 2011

Reviews

[Noah Gecelovsky · Rating 4 out of 5]

An excellent introduction to the history of queer rights in Canada; in addition to being a strong and well-argued critique to the argument that Canada is a "queer utopia".

[Kim · Rating 5 out of 5]

I am a firm believer in the importance of understanding your history, and queer history in Canada tends to take a backseat to our louder sibling to the south. This was a very eye-opening lesson on previous battles, ongoing issues, and the continuing fight for our rights as equal citizens.

[Drew Chapados · Rating 4 out of 5]

Good book that is an easy read to go over Canada's complicated history in rights seeking for LGBTQ+ individuals

[M.E. Girard · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a great introduction to the history of queer rights in Canada. It's a small book but many resources are provided in the footnotes, so it's a very good place to start when beginning to read about the evolution of queer rights in Canada. The book does not touch upon trans issues, however, but it does explain why within the text.

[Gavin Stephenson-Jackman · Rating 3 out of 5]

I just finished reading the publishers excerpt for this book and it looks like it will be very interesting. I've contacted the publisher and will wait for the release of the electronic version before reading the book itself but am looking forward to it.