New loonie marking 'progress' for LGBTQ2 Canadians released

Apr 23 2019, 10:41 pm

The Royal Canadian Mint has unveiled a new commemorative loonie that marks an important milestone for lesbian, gay, bi-sexual, transgender, queer, and two-spirited people in Canada.

Fifty years ago today, Canada began the process of decriminalizing homosexual acts between two consenting people of 21 years or older.

The agency says the new coin celebrates “50 years of progress for LGBTQ2 Canadians.”

The new coin, which starts circulating today, combines the words “EQUALITY-ÉGALITÉ” with the signature work of Vancouver artist Joe Average.

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“For the past 50 years and beyond, Canadians have fought for their right to love, marry, start a family, and live openly as their most authentic selves,” said Bill Morneau, Minister of Finance and Member of Parliament for Toronto Centre.

“The Equality coin recognizes their triumphs and encourages all of us to build a better, more inclusive Canada – because like the coin itself, the more equality we have in Canada, the richer we all are.”

Royal Canadian Mint

“Today is an important day for the LGBTQ2 community, and for all Canadians, as this commemorative coin enters circulation,” said Randy Boissonnault, Special Advisor to the Prime Minister on LGBTQ2 Issues.

“It is an opportunity to reflect on a landmark event in our country’s history, and a reminder of the progress still to be made as we work toward inclusion and equality for all LGBTQ2 Canadians.”

Limited to a mintage of three million, the one-dollar “Equality” coin is now entering general circulation and will be available through several public coin exchanges, which will be announced soon.

Ainsley SmithAinsley Smith

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