Events - Equality Forum 2004

April 26 - May 2, 2004 (updated Apr. 25)

Equality Forum names 19 Canadians for global gay forum honouring Canada

"Canada really propelled this issue. They are a role model for us and an inspiration."
Malcolm Lazin (Philadelphia Inquirer, Apr. 25, 2004)

Equality Forum, the largest international GLBT (gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender) civil rights forum unveiled the Equality Forum 2004 image with Canada as its 2004 Featured Nation and the names of 19 prominent Canadians representing Canada at Equality Forum today at a press conference in Toronto. Equality Forum 2004 will be held from Monday, April 26 to Sunday, May 2 in Philadelphia.

Philadelphia

Malcolm Lazin, Executive Director, Equality Forum stated, "Each year we have a different Featured Nation. The choice for 2004 was unanimous. Canada has led on issues of GLBT civil rights. We salute Canada for recognizing the fundamental human right to marry the life partner of one's choice. Canada exemplifies equality."

"This is an exciting opportunity to share Canadian values in over 20 programs at Equality Forum 2004", stated Darrell Schuurman, co-founder, Canadian Gay & Lesbian Chamber of Commerce. "Canada is bringing our best, including political leaders like Member of Parliament Svend Robinson [cancelled], Ontario Minister of Health George Smitherman, Winnipeg Mayor Glen Murray and Kevin Bourassa and Joe Varnell, North America's first gay married couple. Our collaboration includes artists and entertainers, civil rights advocates, journalists, business executives, community activists, religious leaders, among others."

On October 16, 2003, Equality Forum presented its Distinguished Leadership Award to Kevin Bourassa and Joe Varnell, Canada's first gay married couple. "We are honored to have Equality Forum, the premiere international GLBT forum, bestow this award. We look forward to serving on the International Family Values Panel and Gay Marriage Panel at Equality Forum 2004," said Toronto's Kevin Bourassa.

There are over 40 events at Equality Forum 2004 including the pre-Broadway premiere of Zanna, Don't, a gay themed musical; six parties; BBQ; Canadian cabaret performers and SundayOUT. Philadelphia is well under two hours by multiple daily non-stop flights from Montreal, Ottawa and Toronto.

The 9th annual International Role Model Award to the Honorable Martin Cauchon, Minister of Justice and Attorney General, Canada at a dinner in Independence National Historical Park. "Throughout Minister of Justice Cauchon's distinguished career he has supported GLBT civil rights including his important support for gay marriage", said Mr. Lazin. "In Philadelphia, the birthplace of democracy and liberty, we will present our most prestigious award to Minister of Justice Cauchon."

"Philadelphia is the site of my nation's first gay rights protests, even before the Stonewall Riots", said Meryl Levitz, President, Greater Philadelphia Tourism Marketing Corporation. "It is appropriate that Equality Forum brings people from around the world to discuss gay and lesbian issues in the shadow of the Liberty Bell and Independence Hall. As the City of Brotherly Love and Sisterly Affection, we are gay friendly and welcoming."

Equality Forum is a nonprofit organization headquartered in Philadelphia.

Malcolm Lazin
Executive Director,Equality Forum
(215) 732-2278

October 17, 2003

Equality Forum features Canada in 2004

Equality Forum, the largest international GLBT (gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender) civil rights forum, announced at a press conference, held yesterday at Independence National Historical Park, that Canada is its 2004 Featured Nation. Equality Forum 2004 will be held from Monday, April 26th to Sunday, May 2nd in Philadelphia.

Malcolm Lazin, Executive Director, Equality Forum stated, "Each year we have a different Featured Nation. The choice for 2004 was unanimous. Canada has led on issues of GLBT civil rights. Canada exemplifies equality."

We are thrilled to be invited as panelists on two topics presented by Equality Forum: Family Values Panel and Gay Marriage Panel.

"We salute Canada for recognizing the fundamental human right to marry the life partner of one's choice.", said Joe Farrell, Chair, Board of Directors. "We commend its courts and its national leadership including Canadian Prime Minister Chretien."

"This is an exciting opportunity to share Canadian values in approximately 20 programs at Equality Forum 2004", stated Darrell Schuurman, co-founder, Canadian Gay & Lesbian Chamber of Commerce. "Canada is bringing our best, including political leaders like Member of Parliament Svend Robinson, Ontario Member of Provincial Parliament George Smitherman and Winnipeg Mayor Glen Murray. Our collaboration includes artists and entertainers, civil rights advocates, journalists, business executives, community activists, religious leaders, among others."

"We are delighted to add the National Constitution Center to our list of collaborating partners. We will hold a Presidential Election 2004 at the National Constitution Center. The program focus is how GLBT issues involving Constitutional freedoms impact the 2004 federal elections.", stated Malcolm Lazin.

"Philadelphia is the site of the nation's first gay rights protests - even before the Stonewall Riots", said Meryl Levitz, President, Greater Philadelphia Marketing Tourism Corporation. "It is, therefore, appropriate that Equality Forum brings people from around the world to discuss gay and lesbian issues in the shadow of the Liberty Bell and Independence Hall."

"We view Equality Forum as an international event that allows us to demonstrate Canadian values and embrace the GLBT community. Our nation is a close and inviting destination with diverse travel experiences.", said Susan Iris, Canadian Tourism Commission.

For more information, contact Equality Forum.