Two decades after same-sex marriage was legalized in Canada, lawyer Douglas Elliott reflects on the fight for equality and the joy it brought to countless lives.
A Milestone Remembered in Canadian History
On July 20, 2005, Canada became the fourth country in the world to legalize same-sex marriage. The passage of Bill C-38, known as the Civil Marriage Act, marked a turning point in Canadian civil rights. Passed by a vote of 163 to 138 in the House of Commons, the legislation granted same-sex couples the right to marry nationwide—cementing Canada’s role as a global leader in LGBTQ+ rights.
Legal Advocate Reflects on His Role
Douglas Elliott, a human rights lawyer from Elliot Lake, Ontario, played a key role in the decades-long legal battle that led to the Act’s passage. Speaking to Maple News Wire on the 20th anniversary, Elliott said he still receives hugs from strangers who learn of his involvement. “It was a long fight,” he said, “but one worth every step.”
The Battle in Courtrooms and Churches
In the early 2000s, Elliott represented the Metropolitan Community Church of Toronto—the first religious institution in the world to marry a same-sex couple. That ceremony took place on January 14, 2001, and was legally recognized two years later after a landmark Ontario Court of Appeal ruling. Elliott noted that gaining full marriage rights, rather than civil union alternatives, was critical for national and international recognition.
Divisions Within Parliament
Despite leading the Liberal government that passed the bill, not all party members supported the legislation. Liberal MP Raymond Bonin of Nickel Belt voiced his opposition during debate, stating, “I do not believe breaking down the concept of marriage represents any kind of social progress.” Elliott strongly disagreed, calling such views discriminatory. “The only reason they didn’t want to call it marriage,” he said, “was to give us second-class status.”
Personal Victory, National Symbolism
Elliott married his longtime partner on July 11, 2008, three years after the Act became law. “It was the happiest day of my life,” he said. “One of the reasons people fought so hard against equal marriage was to deny us that joy and recognition that comes with sharing a wedding day with family and friends.”
Legacy and Ongoing Recognition
Today, Canada’s decision to legalize same-sex marriage is widely viewed as a landmark achievement in human rights. Elliott believes the emotional impact remains powerful. “Marriage is a universal institution,” he said. “And when we opened its doors to everyone, we didn’t weaken it—we strengthened it.”
As the country marks 20 years since the legalization of same-sex marriage, many Canadians are not only reflecting on the progress made—but also celebrating the individuals who helped make it possible.
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