Chretien award from gay-lesbian group.Philadelphia--Former prime minister Jean Chretien was in Philadelphia on April 29 to receive a "role model" award from Equality Forum, a gay-lesbian-rights activist group, for his support of same-sex "marriage." He was accompanied by two Mounties in red tunics, to promote Canada's welcoming attitude toward affluent American "gays," a potential tourist boom for Canada. Some critics have complained that his being escorted by uniformed Mounties to an awards dinner is inappropriate. In an exchange with the media before the event, Chretien said that "same-sex marriages Noun 1. same-sex marriage - two people of the same sex who live together as a family; "the legal status of same-sex marriages has been hotly debated" couple, twosome, duet, duo - a pair who associate with one another; "the engaged couple"; "an inseparable are now a reality in Canada and I don't think there will be any turning back." He added that "the job of establishing and protecting rights is never over. You have to keep fighting" (Toronto Star The Toronto Star is Canada's highest-circulation newspaper, though its print edition is distributed almost entirely within Ontario. It is owned by Toronto Star Newspapers Ltd., a division of Star Media Group, a subsidiary of Torstar Corporation. , April 30, 2005). The Equality Forum described Chretien as a "heterosexual Catholic, who, at a defining moment, reminded Canadians of each citizen's right, under Canada's Charter, to individual liberty, protection of minority rights and the importance of separation of church and state
Michele Bogrette, the group's vice-president, said Chretien is an "especially worthy candidate...." "He is a devout de·vout adj. de·vout·er, de·vout·est 1. Devoted to religion or to the fulfillment of religious obligations. See Synonyms at religious. 2. Displaying reverence or piety. 3. Catholic who adhered to his public responsibility of equality for all Canadian Citizens." (C.P. April 30, 2005) Previous recipients of the award include former M.P. Svend Robinson Svend Robinson (born March 4, 1952) is a Canadian politician, Canada's first openly homosexual elected official and a prominent activist for gay rights. He was a Member of Parliament in the Canadian House of Commons from 1979 until 2004, when he resigned after confessing to and former Justice Minister Martin Cauchon Martin Cauchon, PC , LL.B , LL.M (born August 23 1962) is a Canadian politician and former Liberal Party of Canada cabinet minister. Cauchon was born in La Malbaie, Quebec and studied law at the University of Ottawa and the University of Exeter. . Kevin Bourassa and Joe Varnell, the first "wed" "gay" couple in Canada received "heroes" awards from the group. |
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