The practice of conversion therapy is now illegal in Canada.

Conversion therapy is a discriminatory practice against the LGBTQ2+ community with a clear purpose to promote heterosexual attraction and cis-gender identity and expression, labelling any other form of attraction or expression as less desirable.

It is a practice that has been legal in Canada despite being denounced by the Canadian Psychiatric Association, Canadian Psychological Association and the Canadian Pediatric Society.

Conversion therapy legislation was introduced in the last parliament but was not passed, as disagreement and delays failed to allow the legislation to be ratified prior to the dissolution of parliament. 

In the new parliament, MPs unanimously passed conversion therapy legislation over 48 hours in the House – Bill C-4 is now enshrined in law.

This new law applies to everyone, regardless of age and consent, making conversion therapy illegal in Canada.

This puts the health and dignity of Canadians first and is a reminder that parliament works best when it works together for Canadians.

Access more information about Bill C-4, including details and the text of the bill here.