Most MPs were recently released to return to their constituencies for summer break, however, one group has remained in Ottawa. The Justice Committee has stayed to hear witnesses testifying both for and against the newly proposed prostitution legislation by Minister MacKay, Bill C-36. The committee is extending their session because they are racing against a legislative deadline set by the Supreme Court of Canada for December.
As shared with you previously, Bill C-36 is fashioned after the Nordic Model which focuses criminalizing the pimps, perpetuators and purchasers of sex rather than the sellers (prostitutes). It also provides funding for those wanting to leave the sex trade to be assisted. Nations in Europe who have adopted the model have reported great success and seen a drop in prostitution overall.
Our sources from Parliament have told us that it is important that we continue to contact the government and let them know we support this approach. We specifically need to contact the Justice Committee at this time. Our sources explained to us that they are listening to what Canadians are saying as they look closely at the bill in the committee phase.
Please join us in acting at this important phase for Bill C-36. Thank you.
Find out more:
▪ Click here to read Huffington post article from July 6th
▪ Click here to read CBC article from July 9th
ACTION POINTS
1 - Please pray for the Justice Committee members. They are:
Chair: Mike Wallace
Vice-Chairs: Françoise Boivin and Irwin Cotler
Members: Dan Albas, Scott Armstrong, Blaine Calkins, Robert Goguen, Pierre Jacob, Hoang Mai, Wayne Marston, Kyle Seeback, David Wilks
2 - Please E-mail the Justice Committee members and tell them you support Bill C-36's approach.
mike.wallace@parl.gc.ca, Francoise.Boivin@parl.gc.ca, irwin.cotler@parl.gc.ca, Dan.Albas@parl.gc.ca, scott.armstrong@parl.gc.ca, blaine.calkins@parl.gc.ca, Robert.Goguen@parl.gc.ca, Pierre.Jacob@parl.gc.ca, Hoang.Mai@parl.gc.ca, wayne.marston@parl.gc.ca, Kyle.Seeback@parl.gc.ca, David.Wilks@parl.gc.ca
Following is a simple sample letter that you can use, or tailor.
Dear Members of the Justice Committee,
Thank you for your service to Canada.
I am aware that you are currently reviewing Bill C-36. I am writing to add my voice to those who are in support of the approach of this legislation which will criminalize the pimps and purchasers rather than the prostitutes. I am also in support of any efforts this bill will make to help prostitutes leave the profession.
Thank you for your time.
Sincerely,
[ You name here. ]
[ Your address here. ]
