Canada’s Civil Marriage Act

The Civil Marriage Act of Canada, enacted in 2005, is federal legislation that legalizes same-sex marriage across the country. It affirms that marriage is a legal union between two individuals, regardless of gender, ensuring equal rights and recognition for all couples. The Act replaced previous provincial or territorial distinctions, making same-sex marriages universally recognized nationwide, and emphasizes equality, nondiscrimination, and the protection of marriage rights for LGBTQ+ individuals.