Even though his background is in agriculture and irrigation, sometimes it’s important to talk about the gaps in our systems with people who are still willing to advocate and show up for these conversations.
My aunt (Madisson’s mom) and I had a meeting today with Minister RJ Sigurdson and it’s safe to say - we have the support.
Our system has a lot of gaps, don’t get me wrong. However, there are three particular things that stand out the most to my family.
Those three things:
- Mandatory ankle monitoring
- Better healthcare policies when someone attempts self-harm multiple times. (Keep in mind, Maddies murderer tried numerous times before he killed her)
- Better education in schools and workplaces meaning the moment you start sex-ed class, you should also learn about coercive control and healthy relationships
These ideas are not about punishment or shame.
They’re about education, prevention, and safety. For the younger generation and for anyone who deserves a safer future.
But conversations alone won’t fix the gaps in our system.
We need people to speak up.
Email your MPs. Call your representatives. Start conversations in your communities. Tell them that domestic violence reform matters and that these gaps cannot continue to exist.
Change happens when people push for it and the more voices that speak up, the harder it is to ignore.
We are doing this for Madisson.
And for every person who deserves protection before it’s too late.
Lots of love, always.
Taylor Matusik