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Homosexual Acts Decriminalized
Homosexual sex is no longer illegal under the criminal code, though homosexual relationships must be conducted privately. Any acts of public affection (dancing, hand holding) remain illegal as acts of "gross indecency." -
Glad Day Bookshop Opens
Glad Day Bookshop, the first 2SLGBTQIA+ bookstore in Canada, and the oldest still-running queer bookshop in the world, opens in Toronto's Gay Village. Glad Day Bookshop -
Toronto Bathhouse Raids
The Toronto Bathhouse Raids spark a movement for the recognition of Queer Rights in Canada. -
Charter Does Not Protect Sexuality
The Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms is adopted. Gay people are not listed as a "protected group" (under Equality Rights), meaning that the Charter does NOT protect anyone from discrimination based on their sexuality. Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms -
"Gross Indecency" Laws Change
"Gross Indecency," understood to mean public displays of affection between two same-sex people, is removed from the Criminal Code and is no longer illegal. -
Charter Includes Sexuality
A Supreme Court Ruling finds that the Charter of Rights and Freedoms should include protection from discrimination based on sexuality, even if it is not listed in the original document. -
Human Rights Act Protects Against Discrimination
Sexual orientation is listed as a protected group under the Canadian Human Rights Act, giving gay people some legal protection from discrimination. Canadian Human Rights Act -
Lesbian Bathhouse is Raided
A lesbian bathhouse in Toronto is raided and many women arrested on illegitimate charges. -
Same-sex Marriage made Legal in Canada
Bill C-38 gives gay couples the right to marry in Canada