As polyamorous relationships become increasingly common in Canada, legal frameworks struggle to keep pace, according to a recent report from the Vanier Institute of the Family. Polyamory, a form of consensual non-monogamy, allows individuals to have multiple romantic partners simultaneously with the knowledge and consent of everyone involved. This relationship style is growing among diverse family types in Canada, particularly within the 2SLGBTQ+ community.
The 2019 Journal of Sex Research highlighted that approximately one in five Canadians has engaged in consensual non-monogamy. Advocates like Steph Davidson, a polyamorous publicist in Toronto, note a shift towards greater acceptance and understanding of non-monogamous relationships in social circles and dating platforms. Davidson, who maintains multiple relationships, emphasizes the importance of honest communication and mutual respect in polyamory.
However, Canadian law currently does not recognize relationships involving more than two people, posing significant challenges for polyamorous families, especially concerning property rights, parental responsibilities, and legal recognition of multi-partner relationships. Recent legal cases in Canada and advancements in other countries, like Colombia and Argentina, suggest a gradual shift towards acknowledging polyamorous families. Yet, substantial legal gaps remain, underscoring the need for continued advocacy and reform to accommodate the evolving nature of family dynamics in modern society.