http://cupe.ca en The Canadian Union of Public Employees represents 600,000 working women and men across Canada http://cupe.ca/action.php?submit=show&actionID=211 Pension plans and retirement savings have been hit hard by the economic crisis and the security of many Canadians is at risk. Some companies even want to cut defined benefit plans that employees paid into throughout their working lives. Tue, 02 Mar 2010 13:24:08 -0500 211 at cupe.ca http://cupe.ca/action.php?submit=show&actionID=212 Citizenship and Immigration Minister Jason Kenney <a href="http://www.thestar.com/news/canada/article/773841--kenney-blocked-gay-rights-in-citizenship-guide-documents">blocked references to LGBTTI rights in a new study guide for immigrants</a>, which was released last November. News of the actions taken by Kenney, who opposed same-sex marriage when it was debated in Parliament, has just become public. <br /><br /> Documents show Kenney chose to omit references to Canada’s decriminalization of homosexual sex and recognition of same-sex marriage rights despite recommendations from his senior department officials. Both references were contained in earlier drafts of the 63-page guide. <br /><br /> Canada has been a leader in rights for LGBTTI persons. We guarantee same-sex spousal pensions and benefits. We have equal rights to marriage. These are hard won rights that Canadians and CUPE members are proud of and should be recognized in documents that our federal government produces. <br /><br /> <b>By putting pressure on Minister Kenney, we can make sure that Canada's citizenship guide promotes the importance of the fundamental freedoms and rights outlined in the Charter. Please send an e-mail using the form below.</b> Wed, 03 Mar 2010 17:01:02 -0500 212 at cupe.ca