Frequently asked questions
Conversion therapies
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What is conversion therapy?
Conversion therapy means any practice, service or treatment, whether spiritual or non-spiritual, that is intended to induce someone to change their sexual orientation, gender identity or gender expression or to repress non heterosexual behaviour.
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Can people take steps to affirm or accept their gender identity, gender expression or sexual orientation despite the prohibition on conversion therapy?
Yes. When someone undertakes a self-initiated process of accepting, adapting to and affirming their sexual orientation, gender identity or gender expression, the law allows them to:
- undergo any affirming medical treatment or surgical operation
- receive support in their process.
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How does conversion therapy violate Québec’s Charter rights?
Conversion therapy, a practice aimed at changing someone’s sexual orientation, gender identity or gender expression, infringes on the right to equality. It may also infringe on several other Charter rights, including:
- the right to personal security, inviolability, and freedom
- the right to the safeguard of one’s dignity
- the right to respect for one’s private life
- the right to the protection, security, and attention that a child’s parents or caregivers are able to give to them.
Learn more about Charter rights
Consult the Act to protect persons from conversion therapy
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Does the ban on conversion therapy apply to children?
Yes. The law protects everyone - that includes children!
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What can I do if my right to protection from conversion therapy has been violated because of my sexual orientation, gender identity or gender expression?
If you have been treated differently because of your sexual orientation, gender identity or gender expression, you can file a discrimination complaint with the Commission.
You can also explore other recourses and complaint mechanisms, including:
- filing a police complaint
- filing a complaint with the professional order in question
- taking the case to court
- applying for compensation for victims of crime.