The Trudeau government is moving to safeguard the rights of transgender Canadians.
On Tuesday morning Justice Minister Jody Wilson-Raybould tabled an amendment to the Human Rights Act to make it illegal to discriminate against anyone based on gender identity and expression.
"We live in a time when discrimination in any form is completely unacceptable," said Minister Wilson-Raybould.
"This is a message of hope to ensure that we recognize gender identity and gender expression and provide the ability in our country for people to feel safe and secure in who they are."
The amendment would protect everyone from hate speech and discrimination, including establishing legal penalties for those who refused to hire or refused to provide services to a transgender individual.
Tuesday May 17 is the International Day Against Homophobia, Transphobia and Biphobia.
Prime Minister Justin Trudeau said Monday, at a ceremony to honour him for his work against prejudice, that transgender people deserve the full protection of the House of Commons.
"Because we must continue to fight for true equality. We much carry on the legacy of those who fought for justice by being bold and ambitious in our actions," said Trudeau.
Trudeau's father was one of those who built that legacy, by pushing to decriminalize homosexuality in 1969.
Fifty years later transgender issues are forcing the push for new laws to allow Canadians, including minors, to be able to change their gender legally, without needing to undergo sex reassignment surgery.
In addition to federal legislation, Quebec's MNAs have been working on changes to Quebec's civil code.
"We are working towards going through with that recommendation including modification to the Civil Code of Quebec," said provincial Justice Minister Stephanie Vallée.
For decades Laurent McCutcheon has fought for the rights of gays and lesbians in Quebec.
He says the prime minister, who has promised to attend gay pride events in Montreal this year, is not only deserving of the award he received Monday, but is setting a global example.
"He is everywhere where we need him," said McCutcheon. "The Prime Minister is with us and it's a great message for all people around the world. "
