Dear CCRC Members and Friends,
As you know, the CCRC has long supported efforts to repeal s.43 of the Criminal Code of Canada, which allows for the corporal punishment of children. This position is consistent with Truth and Reconciliation Commission Call to Action #6 and has been the subject of no less than 17unsuccessful private Members’ Bills across Canada’s two houses of Parliament over the last five decades. Nevertheless, the CCRC considers s.43 of the Criminal Code to be a fundamental violation of children’s right to be protected from violence. We won’t give up.
The good news is that the current moment presents one of the best opportunities to see s.43 repealed since the 2004 Supreme Court decision. Two Bills that would repeal s.43 ( C-273 in the House, and S-251 in the Senate) have both been referred to study at Committee. Bill C-273 passed second reading in February with the unanimous support of five out of the six parties in the House of Commons.
Now is the moment to make our voices heard. Join CCRC board members Terence Hamilton and Danielle Dionne for a “coalition action” webinar via zoom on April 12th at 1:00 pm EST as we take action to repeal Section 43 of the Canadian Criminal Code.This event will guide you in submitting evidence to the Parliamentary Committees, writing impactful letters, and calling on your MP to support Bill C-273 and Bill S-251.
Please register in advance for this meeting.
Let’s unite to end violent discipline and uphold the rights of children. Mark your calendars and be a part of this important moment!
Sincerely,
CCRC