An Amendment to the Manitoba Human Rights Code to include physical size and weight as protected characteristics.

Monday March 19 I introduced an amendment to the Human Rights Code. In the gallery was Marie Ann sister-in-law to Dr. Moe Lerner. Dr. Lerner was instrumental in this bill being brought forward. Sadly Dr. Lerner passed away January 9 of this year. I bring this legislation forward to help address and reduce the bullying and discrimination that is happening all too often to individuals with large or small bodies. Hopefully we will be able to get it passed this year as a measure to improve the lives of many Manitobans. Thank you to all those who have helped in the journey to get this bill this far.

Below is from Hansard:

Bill 216–The Human Rights Code Amendment Act

Hon. Jon Gerrard (River Heights): Madam Speaker, I move, seconded by the MLA for Burrows, that Bill 216, The Human Rights Code Amendment Act; Loi modifiant le Code des droits de la personne, be now read a first time.

Motion presented.

Mr. Gerrard: Madam Speaker, this bill would provide that physical size and weight be protected characteristics under the Human Rights Code, as are gender, race, ethnicity and so on.

One of the people who's instrumental in bringing this bill forward was Dr. Moe Lerner. He, sadly, passed away not long ago, but his sister-in-law is in the gallery today to be here when this bill can be introduced in bill–in Moe's memory.

This bill has been gaining support. See this link to an editorial in the Winnipeg Free Press. If you would like to help in the effort to get this legislation passed please send me an email at jon.gerrard@leg.gov.mb.ca

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