A recent poll conducted by the Angus Reid Institute has shed light on the current state of LGBTQ2+ rights in Canada. The survey, which was conducted online from June 11 to 15, 2021, asked 1,519 Canadian adults about their views on LGBTQ2+ rights and discrimination.
The results of the poll revealed that a majority of Canadians (78%) believe that LGBTQ2+ individuals should have the same rights as heterosexual individuals. This number has increased significantly since 2015, when only 67% of Canadians held this belief.
Furthermore, the poll found that 84% of Canadians believe that LGBTQ2+ individuals should have the right to marry, a right that has been legally recognized in Canada since 2005. This number has also increased since 2015, when only 74% of Canadians held this belief.
However, the poll also highlighted that there is still work to be done in terms of LGBTQ2+ rights and discrimination in Canada. 37% of respondents reported witnessing discrimination against LGBTQ2+ individuals in their community, and 22% reported experiencing discrimination themselves.
When asked about specific issues facing the LGBTQ2+ community, 68% of Canadians expressed support for banning conversion therapy, a harmful practice that attempts to change a person’s sexual orientation or gender identity. This issue has gained more attention in recent years, with several provinces and territories in Canada banning the practice.
The poll also revealed that there is a generational divide when it comes to views on LGBTQ2+ rights. Younger Canadians (aged 18-34) were more likely to support LGBTQ2+ rights and less likely to witness or experience discrimination compared to older generations.
In terms of political affiliation, the poll found that Liberal and NDP supporters were more likely to support LGBTQ2+ rights compared to Conservative supporters. However, a majority of Conservative supporters (66%) still believe that LGBTQ2+ individuals should have the same rights as heterosexual individuals.
Overall, the poll results show that while progress has been made in terms of LGBTQ2+ rights in Canada, there is still room for improvement. Discrimination and inequality continue to be issues faced by the LGBTQ2+ community, and it is important for Canadians to continue advocating for equal rights and acceptance for all individuals, regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity.
