Canada's largest Jewish organizations have supported the inclusion of sexual orientation in the federal government's hate crimes bill. Canadian Jewish Congress said last week it too supports including sexual orientation as a basis for a hate crime. The bill has nothing to do with extending rights to anybody. Bill C-41 would allow courts to impose greater sentences for crimes motivated by hatred towards groups identifiable by their religion, race, color, disability, nationality, age, sex or sexual orientation. But several members of the Liberal caucus have opposed the section on sexual orientation, pitting them squarely against Justice Minister Allan Rock.
Some Liberals say they want sexual orientation clearly defined.
Others want all references to gays and lesbians deleted. Reportedly, as many as 20 Liberals would vote against the bill if it goes unchanged. Rock has said he will not amend the bill's section on sexual orientation. Both B'nai Brith and Congress expect to appear before the committee or file briefs outlining their positions.