MP Schmale Introduces Law to Ban Forced Sterilization
Ottawa, ON — Jamie Schmale, Member of Parliament for Haliburton—Kawartha Lakes and Conservative Shadow Minister for Crown-Indigenous Relations, is proud to introduce Bill S-228, An Act to amend the Criminal Code (sterilization procedures), in collaboration with Senator Yvonne Boyer.
The sterilization of persons without their consent is a monstrous and appalling act with permanent life-altering consequences. Bill S-228 clearly defines and criminalizes forced sterilization in the Criminal Code to ensure that no individual is ever subjected to the procedure without their consent.
“Coerced or forced sterilization is a deeply troubling violation of human rights with a legacy that has disproportionately affected Indigenous Peoples in Canada,” said MP Schmale. “This Bill will ensure that these acts are clearly defined and explicitly criminalized under the law.”
“I am excited to see Bill S-228 introduced in the House of Commons,” added Senator Boyer. “This Bill represents the wishes of survivors of forced and coerced sterilization to have the practice explicitly criminalized. I urge the House to pass this Bill quickly so we can stop this horrific practice once and for all.”
“Bill S-228 is an important measure to improve fairness and accountability in Canada’s healthcare system and to help ensure better treatment for Indigenous women and other minority communities,” said Harmony Redsky, Executive Director of Survivors Circle for Reproductive Justice.
“The Bill passed in the Senate in October and will now make its way through the House of Commons.
“Formally adding this protection to the Criminal Code acknowledges the survivors of forced sterilization and ensures every person has the right to make private medical decisions free from pressure or interference,” concluded Schmale.