Mr. Speaker, yesterday we were witnesses to the historic apology made by the Prime Minister to LGBTQ2 Canadians who have been wronged by federal legislation, policies, and practices. However, we were more than witnesses; we were participants, and I wish to thank every member of this chamber who was here sharing in this historic, and for me, deeply personal moment.
As a young person growing up gay, I never, ever imagined this day. Throughout my lifetime, Canadians were fired from jobs, discharged from serving their country, denied access to justice, and convicted of crimes for simply being themselves.
Mr. Speaker, make no mistake: our long journey has only just begun. Practical reforms will follow to right the historic injustices that people continue to suffer every day. Let us continue moving forward together towards stronger, more diverse and inclusive society.
Yesterday was the start, not the end.