Hundreds of Ontarians brave elements to demand defunding of abortion at Queen’s Park
Toronto, March 19, 2013 – Chanting slogans such as "Defund Abortion" and "Not from my wallet!" an enthusiastic crowd of 350 demonstrators gathered at Queen’s Park on Tuesday March 19, calling on the Ontario legislature to bring an end to forced taxpayer-funded abortion. Taxpayers from various parts of the province (including the GTA, Sudbury, Walkerton, Cambridge, Chatham, St. Catharine’s, Peterborough) came together for a common cause; to defund a procedure that kills a human being, hurts women and is a financial drain on the health care system.
At the rally, Liberal MPP Joe Dickson (Ajax-Pickering) was presented with a petition calling for the defunding of abortion signed by 560 of his constituents. MPP Dixon pledged to present them to the legislature and said a few words to congratulate the spirited crowd on their efforts. Campaign Life Coalition Youth has thus far received more than 25,000 signatures from across the province petitioning to remove abortion as a service covered by OHIP.
Of note, the defund abortion rally included a personal message of support from federal MP Garry Breitkreuz (Yorkton-Melville). His message said "10 years ago I introduced a private members motion that sought to determine whether or not abortion is a medically necessary procedure unfortunately while my motion did not pass; I’m encouraged to know that Ontario taxpayers are taking up this cause."
Among the five youth speakers, rally organizer Alissa Golob, addressed the opportunity costs of defunding abortion in this province. "For $30-50 million a year, Ontario can hire over 200 family doctors or 400 nurses. We could purchase 20 MRI machines or provide therapy to an additional 500 autistic children" said Golob. "It’s time we redirect our tax dollars from a procedure that harms women and kills children to genuine areas of health care."
Mary Ellen Douglas, Ontario President for Campaign Life Coalition, wrapped up the rally by encouraging supporters to continue the campaign to defund abortion by engaging MPPs at the constituency level.
About Campaign Life Coalition
Campaign Life Coalition is a national, non-profit organization involved in political action and advocacy for legal and cultural change in Canada with respect to protecting human life and the family. It is non-partisan and encourages voting based on principles, not party. For more information visit http://www.campaignlifecoalition.com.
Media Contacts:
Alissa Golob, Campaign Life Coalition Youth, 416-204-9749 ext. 238
Mary Ellen Douglas, Ontario President, Campaign Life Coalition, 613-389-4472
Jack Fonseca, Campaign Life Coalition, 416-204-9781
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