A recent search of the federal government’s site dedicated to the proactive release of previously produced access filings has revealed that Global Affairs Canada, specifically the Canadian consulate in Miami, has no records regarding “anti-transgender” legislation as of July 2023. This discovery comes amid a travel advisory issued by Global Affairs Canada to the United States for LGBT travellers.
The travel advisory cites a recent trend in many U.S. states to outlaw transgender surgeries and medical interventions on minors, as well as the passing of limitations on what schools can teach about sexuality. The advisory urges LGBT travellers to check relevant state and local laws and exercise caution while travelling.
However, a recent access filing with the department requested all records generated by the Canadian consulate in Miami on the topic of the anti-trans and anti-gay bills House Bill 1069, Senate Bill 254, and House Bill 1521. The filing specifically requested records from May 17 to June 5, 2023. The response from Global Affairs Canada indicates that no records exist.
One of the bills, HB 1521, was dubbed the “Don’t Say Gay” bill by critics who had not read it. It actually limits teachers’ ability to discuss gender theory in schools. Another bill, HB 1069, requires teachers to define sexual identity as biological and determined at birth, and imposes additional scrutiny on education materials used in sex education. The third bill, SB 254, prohibits “gender-affirming care,” such as cross-sex hormones or surgical interventions, on minors.
The absence of any records from the Canadian consulate in Miami regarding these bills raises questions about the basis for the travel advisory. It seems that the government has issued an advisory without complete information on the legislation in question. This lack of transparency undermines the credibility of the advisory and raises concerns about the government’s approach to LGBTQ rights.
It is important for Global Affairs Canada to provide accurate and comprehensive information to the public, especially when it comes to travel advisories. LGBT travellers deserve to have access to reliable information that can help them make informed decisions about their safety and well-being while travelling.
In light of this revelation, it is crucial for Global Affairs Canada to conduct a thorough review of its processes and ensure that accurate and up-to-date information is being used to issue travel advisories. Transparency and accountability are key to maintaining the trust of the Canadian public and protecting the rights and well-being of all travellers, regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity.
It is also worth noting that Rebel News, the source of the original article, has been critical of the Canadian government’s actions in relation to the travel advisory. As an independent media outlet, they play an important role in holding the government accountable and providing alternative perspectives on current issues. However, readers should consider the bias and agenda of any news source and seek multiple viewpoints to form a well-rounded understanding of the topic at hand.
In conclusion, the absence of records from the Canadian consulate in Miami regarding “anti-transgender” legislation raises questions about the basis for the travel advisory issued by Global Affairs Canada. Transparent and accurate information is essential when issuing travel advisories, especially when it comes to the rights and safety of LGBT travellers. The government should conduct a review of its processes to ensure they are providing reliable information and maintaining the trust of the public.
Source link
