Jamie Schmale, Member of Parliament for Haliburton—Kawartha Lakes—Brock and Conservative Shadow Minister for Crown-Indigenous Relations, has introduced Bill S-228, An Act to amend the Criminal Code (sterilization procedures), in partnership with Senator Yvonne Boyer.
The proposed legislation aims to explicitly define and criminalize the forced or coerced sterilization of individuals in Canada. Schmale emphasized that sterilization without consent is a “monstrous and appalling act” that results in permanent, life-altering consequences. He said the Bill is designed to ensure no one is ever subjected to such a procedure without their informed and voluntary consent.
“Coerced or forced sterilization is a deeply troubling violation of human rights with a legacy that has disproportionately affected Indigenous Peoples in Canada,” Schmale stated. “This Bill will ensure that these acts are clearly defined and explicitly criminalized under the law.”
Senator Yvonne Boyer, who collaborated on the legislation, said she is pleased to see the Bill reach the House of Commons.
“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,” explained Boyer.
Harmony Redsky, Executive Director of the Survivors Circle for Reproductive Justice, also voiced support, saying “[the legislation is] an important measure to improve fairness and accountability in Canada’s healthcare system” and a critical step toward ensuring better treatment for Indigenous women and other minority communities.
Bill S-228 passed in the Senate in October and now proceeds through the House of Commons for further debate and consideration.
“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,” Schmale concluded.