George Klippert was the last man to be convicted of homosexuality in Canada before it was legalized. He was sentenced to prison simply for being gay. Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau announced on Sunday that he intends to posthumously pardon Klippert. Graham Gremore with Queerty.com writes:
It all started after an arson attack in 1965. Klippert was questioned about the fire by police. Though it was ultimately determined that he was not involved, during questioning he did admit to having consensual sexual relations with four men. Because of this, he was charged with four counts of gross indecency.
In 1966, a Crown-appointed psychiatrist concluded that Klippert’s homosexuality was “incurable” and that, therefore, he was a “dangerous sexual offender.” A judge agreed and sentenced him to prison, where he stayed locked up until 1971, two years after homosexuality was decriminalized in Canada.
The much-admired and very liberal Trudeau also promised he would be reviewing hundreds of other convictions of “gross indecency.” In his statement on Sunday, Trudeau said.
“As Canadians, we know that protecting and promoting fundamental human rights must be an imperative for governments and individuals alike.
“This includes gender identity, gender expression, and sexual orientation… but the fight to end discrimination is not over and a lot of hard work remains,” he added.
Trudeau adds, Canada “is made stronger because of our diversity, not in spite of it.” Leading with action, Trudeau announced last week that he plans to attend this year’s Toronto’s Pride Parade in July. Although Trudeau has marched in Pride parades before, as a Liberal Party leader, this will be the first time a Canadian prime minister will join the event.