From protesting for gay rights to the Order of Canada

Parliament Hill, site of Canada's first demonstration for gay rights, is visible from the National Gallery of Canada, where Charlie Hill is the long-time curator of the Canadian collection. (Paul Galipeau)

Charlie Hill, 65, is known for two things: he is a pioneer in the Canadian gay liberation movement and he is a prominent curator at the National Gallery of Canada. 



After the 1980s, Hill left gay politics and focused on his career. He was already known for his 1975 exhibition and catalogue Canadian Painting in the ’30s. In 2001, Governor General Adrienne Clarkson made him a member of the Order of Canada for his contribution to Canadian art and gay liberation. Hill lives with his partner of 16 years, Brian Foss.