Journey to Equal Rights
Royal Canadian Mints for LGBTQ2 While Canadians' are known for their strongly held values of diversity, inclusion and equality, for many years, LGBTQ2 Canadians were not treated equally. Today, the Royal Canadian Mint is proud to launch a one-dollar circulation coin commemorating 50 years of progress in recognizing the rights of LGBTQ2 Canadians. It was a 1969 Act of Parliament that marked the initial milestone on the journey to equality for LGBTQ2 communities by decriminalizing homosexual acts between two consenting people of 21 years or older. The new coin, combining the words, EQUALITY-ÉGALITÉ with the signature work of Vancouver artist Joe Average, starts circulating. It was also launched through an official unveiling at the 519 Community Centre, in Toronto, Ontario. "For the past 50 years and beyond, Canadians have fought for their right to love, marry, start a family and live openly as their most authentic selves," said Bill Morneau, Minister