I'm delighted to welcome you to the CBA Sexual Orientation and Gender Identity Community (SOGIC) Section for the 2019-2020 membership year!
SOGIC's mission is to address the needs and concerns of two-spirited, lesbian, gay, bisexual, trans, and gender non-conforming members within the CBA and to provide a forum for the exchange of information, ideas, and action on legal issues relating to sexual orientation and gender identity. The Section’s Executive Committee comprises Officers, Chairs of provincial /territorial Branch Sections, and Members-At-Large, who are all volunteers dedicated to helping the CBA develop services and advance law reform initiatives that are relevant to our members and 2SLGBTQ+ communities.
What We’re Working On
Our primary areas of focus this year will continue to be:
- Informing the Section’s advocacy efforts, including drafting submissions to and participating in consultations with legislators and policymakers on topics such as:
- 2SLGBTQ+ health policy and regulation
- persecution/discrimination against 2SLGBTQ+ in other parts of the world
- criminal prosecution practices involving 2SLGBTQ+ individuals
- Working with the CBA to provide CPD training to judges and administrative decision-makers about 2SLGBTQ+ issues.
- Providing support for law reform and advocacy efforts at the provincial/territorial level.
- Fostering and collaborating with vibrant provincial/territorial Branch Sections, including providing strategic support on member-focused initiatives, such as recruitment, retention, and recognition.
Want to Get Involved?
SOGIC requires strong and proactive member participation to help manage our priorities and warmly welcomes you all to get involved!
Here’s how:
- Support your local SOGIC branch and participate in CPD programming, networking events, and mentorship initiatives throughout the year. If you have any questions about what's happening with SOGIC in your province/territory, please do not hesitate to contact the local CBA branch office or respective SOGIC chairs/representatives.
- Engage with us at the national level and lend your expertise to our advocacy initiatives.
- Contribute your thought leadership, including scholarship and articles.
- Recognize the contributions and achievements of SOGIC members through the Hero and Ally Awards, which will be open for nominations soon.
Contact Us!
As a long-time member of SOGIC and former Chair of the Ontario Branch Executive Committee, I have the honour and privilege to serve as Chair with exceptional and tireless volunteers across Canada. We do this because we care deeply about our communities and are committed to fighting the good fight with and for our SOGIC colleagues. Thank you for your continued support!
Sincerely,
Paul Jonathan Saguil
Chair, SOGIC Executive
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