Indigenous midwives speak truth to power at the Senate of Canada

NCIM Executive Director Ellen Blais and NCIM Core Leader Claire Dion-Fletcher spoke at the Senate on March 20th, 2024 in support of Bill S-250: An Act to amend the Criminal Code (sterilization procedures).

“We call for the IMMEDIATE end to forced, coerced, and involuntary sterilization. It is an act of obstetric violence and genocide. We echo and follow the lead of the Survivor’s Circle of Reproductive Justice in our recommendations.

As Indigenous midwives whose model of care is based on cultural safety, self-determination, and informed choice, we recommend the implementation of Bill S-250. However, we believe that this change to the criminal code is not enough. We need Indigenous led policies and tools which will PREVENT forced and coerced sterilization from ever happening. ”