Youth against Euthanasia
Why should young people be concerned about euthanasia? We’re young, healthy and we still have many years ahead of us.
The fact is, it does directly concern us. Currently in Canada we have a law (Bill C-14), which is filled with ambiguous wording that allows people who are not terminally ill or have psychological problems to request assisted suicide. Another problem facing us, especially in Ontario, is that doctors are now not allowed to refuse assisted suicide without referring the patient to another doctor. How long will it take until euthanasia and assisted suicide is extended to children, or even babies here in Canada? It is only a matter of time as Belgium just euthanized two children under the age of eleven. That means we must act now.
Recently, I had the opportunity to watch the Fatal Flaws documentary directed by Kevin Dunn. Dunn traveled across North America and Europe gathering the opinions of those who support and oppose the legalization of euthanasia and assisted suicide. The film emphasized the slippery slope that begins with the legalization of euthanasia and eventually degrades over time. This was a clear theme among those in Belgium and the Netherlands who have been directly affected by the assisted suicide of a loved one since 2002.
I was upset about how the euthanasia advocates Dunn interviewed justified their reasons why euthanasia should be legal. They used unreasonable arguments that painted euthanasia as a convenient solution rather than providing their clients with the actual medical care and resources. After watching the film, I wanted to do something to stop the killing. I soon discovered that in order for me to make a difference, I first needed to educate myself on the subject in order to continue with the next steps of spreading the word and taking action. Watching this documentary was the first step. Although one person can make a large impact, I will need help. As a young adult, I believe that young people will bring an end to euthanasia and assisted suicide.
The thing about young people is that we possess a curious nature that enables us to approach each new situation or topic with interest. With this fascination, we ask a multitude of questions which we want to have answered. Our curiosity will drive us to find the answers people seek and in this way will be able to educate ourselves and others on the subject of euthanasia and assisted suicide. By watching this film, I was left asking many questions and it has encouraged me to join Kevin Dunn and other opponents of assisted suicide and euthanasia to shed light on this controversial issue.
There are a variety of different ways in which young people can take action. One way is to use multiple social media accounts, as youth are the most connected people on the planet. We can use these platforms to inform people about the dangers of euthanasia and assisted suicide. One can also take action by joining pro-life associations and organizations that advocate against euthanasia; those who can vote should volunteer and vote for candidates who oppose euthanasia and assisted suicide; sign petitions to enact certain legislation like conscience protection for medical practioners etc. These actions will show our support for movements that oppose euthanasia and assisted suicide and it will encourage others to do the same. In addition to getting involved politically, I think that young people should also visit nursing homes to spend an afternoon with someone who is sick and lonely, or just hasn’t had a visitor in a long time. This is especially powerful because something so simple can make someone feel loved and valued. These are just some easy ways which young people can take action within their own communities.
Euthanasia and assisted suicide gravely exploit the suffering and desperate. This movement should be worrying to everyone. By electing governments and supporting businesses and charities that fund euthanasia, we are all held accountable for this violence against the most vulnerable. We have a responsibility and obligation to rise up, and challenge this new narrative that claims that killing those in need is a form of compassion. I strongly disagree. I support caring, not killing.
If you haven't yet watched the film Fatal Flaws, go to fatalflawsfilm.com to find out how to bring a screening to your community. In the meantime, watch the trailer below.