Barbara Findlay, a prominent figure in the 2SLGBTQ+ community, passed away at the age of 77 after battling a long illness. In her early years, Findlay faced adversity due to her sexual orientation, which was deemed a mental illness in Canada during the early 1970s. Before beginning her legal career, she had to obtain a “sanity certificate” to practice law.
Throughout her life, Findlay dedicated herself to advocating for human rights and challenging societal norms that sought to confine individuals to predefined categories. She was known for spelling her name in lowercase letters, a unique choice that sparked both curiosity and controversy. Despite facing resistance, Findlay maintained her lowercase spelling as a symbol of her activism.
Findlay’s impact extended beyond her unconventional name choice. She played a pivotal role in advancing 2SLGBTQ+ rights through her legal work, tackling significant cases that pushed for equality and inclusion. Her advocacy efforts ranged from securing legal recognition for both lesbian co-parents on birth certificates to advocating for transgender youths’ rights in educational settings.
Recognized for her contributions, Findlay received prestigious accolades such as the Queen’s Counsel designation in 2001, a Queen’s Diamond Jubilee Medal in 2013, and the Canadian Bar Association of B.C.’s award for distinguished service in 2020. She co-founded Lawyers Against Transphobia and actively supported community initiatives, including the Rainbow Refugee Committee.
Fellow activist Shantel Ivits described Findlay as a trailblazer who defied conventional labels and norms. Ivits recounted a poignant moment when thunder and lightning coincided with Findlay’s passing, symbolizing her enduring legacy as a formidable force of nature.
Barbara Findlay’s indelible contributions to the 2SLGBTQ+ community and her unwavering commitment to justice and equality have left an enduring impact, resonating with those she mentored and volunteered alongside.