Please email your MP. You can find their contact information here https://www.ourcommons.ca/members/en/search
This is a template you can use.
Dear MP ___,
I am writing to bring your attention to a matter of utmost importance regarding survivor safety and privacy rights in the Canadian justice system.
As you are aware, survivor safety is a critical issue that affects individuals across our nation. Survivors of various forms of trauma, including domestic violence/IPV, sexual assault, human trafficking, and other crimes directed at a person, require robust support systems to heal and rebuild their lives. Ensuring their safety and privacy is paramount in this process.
Recent concerns have emerged regarding violations of survivor privacy rights under Section 278 CCC. This section allows for the disclosure of private records of the victim, including therapeutic and counselling records, and personal journals, during legal proceedings. While the intention is stated to be “to protect the accused’s right to form a full defence,” the reality involves the significant traumatization of the victim and elimination of access to safe mental health help and support for the victim when they need it most.
Survivors must feel safe and supported when accessing vital services such as counselling and therapy. The threat of their private records being disclosed to their offender, and potentially to the public in court, creates a significant barrier to seeking help. This can also perpetuate cycles of violence and abuse by the offender, long after the court case has ended.
I am urging you to take action to address this issue. Amendments to Section 278 CCC have been created by the founders of Survivor Safety Matters (www.survivorsafetymatters.ca) through a House of Commons Petition e-4749 that will close on May 12, 2024.
Your support in Parliament of these necessary changes will go a long way in making Canada a safer place for all of us.
Sincerely,
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