Barbara Findlay, a prominent advocate for 2SLGBTQ+ rights in British Columbia, passed away at the age of 77 after battling a long illness. Findlay, who faced adversity due to her sexual orientation in the early 1970s, was involuntarily admitted to a psychiatric facility for being queer, reflecting the societal stigma of being gay as a mental illness during that period.

Before being called to the bar, Findlay had to obtain a “sanity certificate” to prove her fitness for the legal profession. However, she defied all odds and dedicated her life to championing human rights, particularly focusing on groundbreaking cases related to 2SLGBTQ+ rights.

Fellow activist Shantel Ivits remembered Findlay as someone who defied categorization and worked tirelessly to dismantle societal norms that tried to confine individuals into predefined boxes. Findlay’s unique trait of spelling her name in lowercase letters became a symbol of her defiance against conformity.

Throughout her career, Findlay fought for various crucial causes, such as advocating for the rights of lesbian co-parents and transgender youth. Her contributions were recognized with honors like the Queen’s Counsel designation and the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee Medal.

Remembered as a force of nature by those she mentored and volunteered with, Barbara Findlay’s legacy in the 2SLGBTQ+ community in British Columbia remains unparalleled. She chose to end her life through medical assistance in dying, expressing her belief in self-determination. Findlay’s impact on the community will continue to resonate, as she symbolizes resilience and unwavering advocacy for equality and justice.