Svend Robinson (born 8 January 1952) is a Canadian former politician and activist who served as a Member of Parliament (MP) in the House of Commons of Canada from 1979 to 2004. He was the first openly gay MP in Canadian federal politics, publicly coming out in 1988. Robinson was initially elected as a member of the New Democratic Party (NDP) representing the riding of Burnaby—Seymour, later Burnaby—Douglas, in British Columbia.
Early life and education
Robinson was born in Vancouver, British Columbia, and grew up in a working‑class family. He attended the University of British Columbia, where he earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in sociology. During his university years, he became involved in student activism and social justice movements.
Political career
Robinson first entered federal politics at age 27, winning a seat for the NDP in the 1979 federal election. He was re‑elected in successive elections, serving continuously for 25 years. Throughout his tenure, he was noted for his advocacy on a range of progressive issues, including LGBTQ+ rights, environmental protection, Indigenous affairs, and opposition to neoliberal economic policies.
In Parliament, Robinson held several critic portfolios for the NDP, such as critic for the environment, foreign affairs, and human rights. He was a prominent opponent of the Canadian government's involvement in the Iraq War and a vocal critic of policies he perceived as infringing upon civil liberties.
Controversies and expulsion
In 2004, Robinson was expelled from the NDP caucus after admitting to having engaged in a consensual sexual relationship with a 16‑year‑old male constituent, which was illegal under Canadian law at the time. The incident led to legal proceedings; he was later convicted of sexual assault and sentenced to a term of imprisonment, of which he served part of an eight‑month sentence in 2005. Following his release, Robinson was barred from the NDP but continued to be involved in advocacy work.
Post‑parliamentary activities
After leaving Parliament, Robinson remained active in various social and environmental causes. He has been involved with organizations promoting climate justice, Indigenous rights, and LGBTQ+ equality. Robinson has also contributed opinion pieces to newspapers and online platforms, reflecting on his political experiences and advocating for progressive policy reforms.
Legacy
Robinson’s public coming out is widely recognized as a milestone in Canadian political history, contributing to greater visibility and acceptance of LGBTQ+ individuals in public office. His long parliamentary service and outspoken advocacy on human rights and environmental issues have left a notable imprint on Canadian political discourse.
References
- Parliament of Canada biography, "Svend Robinson, MP".
- "Robinson expelled from NDP over sexual assault case", CBC News, 19 June 2004.
- "Former MP Svend Robinson arrested for sexual assault", The Globe and Mail, 12 July 2004.
- "Svend Robinson: A career in activism", Vancouver Sun, 3 August 2010.