Statement in support of Egale’s legal victory on trans rights in Alberta
The Alberta 2SLGBTQI+ Chamber of Commerce welcomes the recent court decision to grant an injunction against parts of Alberta’s proposed legislation (Bill 26) targeting transgender youth.
On the basis of expert evidence, the Court concluded that Bill 26 would cause irreparable harm to gender diverse young people in Alberta and would “reinforce the discrimination and prejudice that they are already subjected to”. Through this injunction, trans youth will “continue receiving medical care from trusted doctors and a broader team of health professionals thereby avoiding the adverse consequences the ban will have on them, including interference with their autonomy, unwanted and permanent development, serious stress and anxiety and further discrimination, until the issues are decided on a full record at trial.”
What the injunction means: These policies cannot be enforced while the broader constitutional challenge moves through the courts. Transition care for youths in Alberta remain protected (for now) from policies that could have caused serious harm to their mental health, autonomy, and safety.
What it doesn’t mean: This is not a final ruling. The case is ongoing, and the government has signaled it may attempt to override the decision using the notwithstanding clause. This moment is a reprieve, not yet a resolution.
Last fall, the Alberta 2SLGBTQI+ Chamber of Commerce spoke out against Bill 26, stating this legislation effectively limits healthcare providers’ ability to deliver gender-affirming care, disrupting the established standards of care for young individuals with gender dysphoria.
As a Chamber, our mission is to build an inclusive economy where queer and trans people can thrive, not only as entrepreneurs and professionals, but as kids growing up in safe, supportive communities. When young people are affirmed in who they are, they are more likely to become confident adults who build, lead, and create change. That is the future we’re working toward.
We thank the individuals and organizations who brought this case forward. Their advocacy reflects the values we hold: courage, equity, and care.
To the trans youth and families across Alberta: you matter. We see you. You deserve to live with dignity, to access care, and to show up as your full self across all parts of society, including in schools, workplaces, and everywhere in between.
We urge the Government of Alberta to take this decision seriously and choose a better path. We will continue to advocate for a province where queer and trans people are safe and free to receive the medical care they need.
You can read more about the injunction and the legislative background of Bill 26 on the Egale Canada website.
