Argumentation

Justin Trudeau’s speech is characterised by a mix of direct and indirect argumentation.

Direct argumentation can be observed whenever the Prime Minister expresses his ideas in a clear, explicit manner. For example, Trudeau is explicit about the main topic of his speech: “Today, we finally talk about Canada’s role in the systemic oppression, criminalization, and violence against the lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, and two-spirit communities.” (ll. 19-21)

The speaker is also straightforward about whom the apology is addressed to (ll. 86-87) and on behalf of whom he issues the apology (ll. 140-141). Trudeau also speaks explicitly about the present challenges that LGBTQ2 Canadians face in society: “Transgender Canadians are subjected to discrimination, violence, and aggression at alarmin...