Thank you for writing so clearly about *how* forced-birthers are using misinformation, disinformation, and heavily edited videos to push their agenda. Having known someone who was forced into sepsis after her much-wanted fetus died, and who subsequently had to have a hysterectomy to save her life because of the spread of sepsis (not due to current American policy, but due to the policies of the Catholic hospital her insurance sent her to, some 30+ years ago), I realize how rapidly we are moving backwards on such issues, and how important it is that correct information be presented, over and over and over again.
I remember when R v W was struck down, a lot of comments here in Canada were "we're fine. Abortion is a constitutional right.", and all I thought was, "hmmm, not so fast with that confidence. Anything is possible with the right wrong kind of person as leader."
Not to forget that access to abortion services vary considerably from province to province, and even within the same province. I mean, remote areas of northern BC do not have equal access as someone down in the Big Smoke, and I believe that abortion services in New Brunswick are more difficult to access than here in BC.
And let's not forget that the use of the Notwithstanding Clause is getting a little too much usage in recent years by certain premiers to bypass what are supposed to be protected rights under the Charter.
Anyway, thank you for this post, Jen. I didn't know that the NP was posting this kind of garbage.
You tell 'em, Dr. Gunter! Much respect from a Canadian living in the US, who is also a life-long pro-choice advocate. Thank you for sounding the alarm, I'll pass it along to friends up there.
I have so much respect for your work, Dr. Gunter, but the UCP convention, for the governing party of one province, Alberta, has made policy proposals for provincial funding, though partly federal in source, so they do not affect federal legislation.
Lots of ideas are floated at these conventions that will never see the light of day. Apologies to readers outside Canada who might find these references too specific.
I agree that it's good for all us to be aware of lobbyists' efforts re: women's health, but I think that Canadians are more concerned about access to a family doctor, a national pharmacare plan, emergency room access, and surgical wait times to pay attention to the UCP delegates or the Post's "investigative" pieces. It's a rag, definitely, and maybe one step above the Toronto Sun.
Thank you for writing so clearly about *how* forced-birthers are using misinformation, disinformation, and heavily edited videos to push their agenda. Having known someone who was forced into sepsis after her much-wanted fetus died, and who subsequently had to have a hysterectomy to save her life because of the spread of sepsis (not due to current American policy, but due to the policies of the Catholic hospital her insurance sent her to, some 30+ years ago), I realize how rapidly we are moving backwards on such issues, and how important it is that correct information be presented, over and over and over again.
Thank you for continuing to bring this to people’s attention. I appreciate that you validate the concern many of us have.
I remember when R v W was struck down, a lot of comments here in Canada were "we're fine. Abortion is a constitutional right.", and all I thought was, "hmmm, not so fast with that confidence. Anything is possible with the right wrong kind of person as leader."
Not to forget that access to abortion services vary considerably from province to province, and even within the same province. I mean, remote areas of northern BC do not have equal access as someone down in the Big Smoke, and I believe that abortion services in New Brunswick are more difficult to access than here in BC.
And let's not forget that the use of the Notwithstanding Clause is getting a little too much usage in recent years by certain premiers to bypass what are supposed to be protected rights under the Charter.
Anyway, thank you for this post, Jen. I didn't know that the NP was posting this kind of garbage.
~ Kathleen
PS. A big fuck you to you, National Post.
You tell 'em, Dr. Gunter! Much respect from a Canadian living in the US, who is also a life-long pro-choice advocate. Thank you for sounding the alarm, I'll pass it along to friends up there.
OMG - This is a very powerful piece of writing. Thank you for doing what you do. 🙏
I'm so grateful for this article. This is scary.
I have so much respect for your work, Dr. Gunter, but the UCP convention, for the governing party of one province, Alberta, has made policy proposals for provincial funding, though partly federal in source, so they do not affect federal legislation.
Lots of ideas are floated at these conventions that will never see the light of day. Apologies to readers outside Canada who might find these references too specific.
I agree that it's good for all us to be aware of lobbyists' efforts re: women's health, but I think that Canadians are more concerned about access to a family doctor, a national pharmacare plan, emergency room access, and surgical wait times to pay attention to the UCP delegates or the Post's "investigative" pieces. It's a rag, definitely, and maybe one step above the Toronto Sun.