Svend Robinson

Svend Robinson

Svend Robinson (born March 4, 1952) is a Canadian politician, who was a prominent member of the New Democratic Party (NDP). He is notable for being the first Canadian Member of Parliament (MP) to come out as gay, a landmark event in Canadian political history. Throughout his career, Robinson was known for his advocacy on issues such as LGBT rights, environmental protection, public health, and human rights, both within Canada and internationally.

Early Life and Education

Svend Robinson was born in Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA, but moved to Canada with his family during his childhood. He pursued his higher education at the University of British Columbia (UBC), where he earned a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science. Following his undergraduate degree, Robinson attended the London School of Economics (LSE) in the United Kingdom, where he received a Master of Laws.

Political Career

Robinson's political career began when he was elected as the MP for Burnaby—Douglas in British Columbia in the 1979 federal election. He served as an MP for over 25 years, being re-elected several times until he stepped down in 2004. During his tenure, Robinson was known for his passionate advocacy on various social issues.

LGBT Rights

Robinson made history in 1988 when he publicly came out as gay, becoming the first sitting MP in Canada to do so. This courageous act was a significant moment in Canadian politics and helped to advance the cause of LGBT rights in Canada. Robinson worked tirelessly to combat discrimination and promote equality, including efforts to amend the Canadian Human Rights Act to include sexual orientation as a protected category.

Environmental Advocacy

Robinson was also a staunch advocate for environmental protection. He played a key role in various environmental campaigns and was vocal in his opposition to projects and policies that he believed were harmful to the environment. His efforts contributed to raising awareness and promoting legislative action on environmental issues.

Human Rights and International Affairs

Throughout his career, Robinson was deeply involved in human rights advocacy. He was known for his work on international human rights issues, including his opposition to apartheid in South Africa and his support for the rights of Indigenous peoples. Robinson's commitment to human rights was evident in his participation in various international delegations and his efforts to bring attention to human rights abuses around the world.

Later Life and Legacy

After leaving politics, Robinson continued to be active in various causes, including environmental and human rights issues. His contributions to Canadian politics and his pioneering role as an openly gay politician have left a lasting legacy, inspiring future generations of activists and politicians.

Robinson's career is a testament to the impact that dedicated individuals can have on advancing social justice and equality. His work has paved the way for greater acceptance and inclusion of LGBTQ+ individuals in Canadian society and politics.