Section
National SOGIC Section
Date
May 22-23, 2015
Location
The Prince George Hotel (Hanover Room)
Submitted by
BC Branch Representative: Preston I. Parsons
Report
The recent SOGIC National In-Person Meeting was another great opportunity for dedicated colleagues from across the country to come together to discuss LGBTQ* legal issues and issues which matter to LGBTQ* members of our profession.
On May 22nd we enjoyed a insightful CPD presentation from counsel for the Nova Scotia Barristers' Society on the Justice Cambell's TWU decision, which is now under appeal. This excellent presentation was followed by a reception at the Maritime Museum in downtown Halifax.
On May 23rd we had a full agenda and an engaging meeting. Highlights from the agenda included:
- discussion of national resolutions on the determination of family status on birth certificates and the "gay-panic" defence;
- discussion of SOGIC's intervention proposal in the TWU case before the Nova Scotia Court of Appeal and in SOGIC's continued advocacy with the Senate regarding Bill C-279;
- reports from the various branches across the country on developments and events in each branch;
- discussion around SOGIC's Hero and Ally awards;
- discussion regarding the National Children's Law Committee which is working its way to being a potential National Section; and
- opportunities for SOGIC to put together CPD presentations.
During the meeting and discussion about the awards, it was raised that Nicole Laviolette, SOGIC's 2015 Hero Award Recipient, passed away after a battle with breast cancer. We were tremendously sorry to hear about the loss of a such a tremendous advocate for our community, and were touched to hear how much receiving the Hero award meant to Nicole.
After the meeting business ended, the participants bonded over dinner and a night on the town. SOGIC meetings always mix a full agenda with some fun.
For further details on items discussed at the meeting, please contact outgoing Co-Chair, Preston Parsons.