QSA's Week in Social Issues (#13, 2025)

Transgender Visibility Day; illegal hiring investigation; election updates; Myanmar aid; candidate permissions.

QSA's Week in Social Issues (#13, 2025)

Good morning! Welcome back to Queen Street Analytics' weekly roundup of regulatory developments, legislative discussions, political announcements and other government-related news concerning social advocacy issues.

Every Monday, we break down the most important updates in this space in under five minutes.


Start Date: 2025-03-30
End Date: 2025-04-05

Top Headlines

Main Stories

International Transgender Day of Visibility Celebrated by Government

On March 31, 2025, Women and Gender Equality Canada issued a statement recognizing International Transgender Day of Visibility. The statement, delivered by Hon. Steven Guilbeault, emphasized the government's commitment to supporting 2SLGBTQI+ communities through initiatives like Canada's Action Plan on Combatting Hate. This plan aims to foster environments free from discrimination for transgender individuals, who face significant mental health challenges, including higher suicide rates among youth.

Sources: Announcements: www.canada.ca

Ontario Raises Minimum Wage

Ontario announces a minimum wage increase to $17.60 per hour, effective October 1, 2025, based on CPI adjustments.

Sources: Provincial Announcement: news.ontario.ca

Canada's Response to Myanmar Earthquake

Following the devastating earthquake in Myanmar, Canada pledged up to $9.75 million in humanitarian aid. The funds will support emergency services and essential supplies through organizations like the Canadian Red Cross and World Food Programme. Global Affairs Canada welcomed additional contributions from the UN Central Emergency Response Funds.

Sources: Announcements: www.canada.ca