Abusing attachment is the worst child abuse!

For many families, the pain of parental custody interference causes deep emotional scars. My cousin GP's firstborn experienced such loss firsthand. Due to her other parent's actions, she was denied the opportunity to build a relationship with GP. The last time any of us saw her, she was only 12 years old. Now, as an adult, she struggles to establish healthy bonds with men as a result of the walls her mother built between her and her father. 

In Ontario, by the age of 12, 75% of the time a parent would ever spend with their child is gone. Moreover, at just this impressionable age, children are currently granted the right to decide which parent they wish to live with. Imagine placing such a significant responsibility on an undeveloped brain during its critical stages of emotional and psychological development.

This current law overlooks the complexities of a child’s psychological maturity, effectively requiring them to make adult decisions without the cognitive capacity to comprehend the long-term implications. Such a burden often leads to emotional distress and confusion, as children are forced to choose between parents, neither fully understanding the gravity nor the nuances of their choice.

In various jurisdictions worldwide, custody laws are designed to protect children by tailoring decision-making roles to adults, with special considerations taken into account by judges who don't understand each individual situation and rely on mental health experts who frequently get it wrong. Ontario must follow these examples and revise the current age at which minors can choose where to reside.

The time has come for us to take action and protect the children of Ontario. By increasing the age of custodial decision-making to a more age-appropriate level, the province can ensure that children have the necessary maturity and support to make such significant decisions. This change would not only alleviate the undue pressure placed on young minds but also ensure their long-term well-being and emotional health.

Join us in calling on Ontario's legislators especially the Minister Of Justice to make this crucial change to better protect our youth. Sign this petition to make a difference in the lives of countless families and children.