Online Sexual Violence Motion Supported By All Parties & Over 40 Organizations

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Ottawa, ON — Today, Motion M-47, introduced by Arnold Viersen, MP for Peace River – Westlock, was debated in the House of Commons. Since being introduced on March 8, 2016, M-47 has garnered the support of over 40 organizations representing a broad coalition of child advocacy agencies, women’s support centres, and victims’ rights organizations. M-47 has also been jointly seconded by MPs from the Conservative, Liberal, NDP, Bloc and Green parties.

“It has been incredible to see the strong movement of support from coast to coast to coast for Motion M-47 across a diverse array of organizations,” said MP Viersen. “From the Victoria Family Court & Youth Justice Committee in BC to the Newfoundland and Labrador Feminists and Allies to the Pauktuutit Inuit Women of Canada, this is an issue that many are deeply concerned about.”

Due to easily accessible violent and degrading explicit material, boys are developing negative gender attitudes before they even reach high school and girls are being taught that violent and degrading sexual behaviour is acceptable. The adoption of M-47 could lead to better protection for youth online, foster healthy sexual development of youth, and combat violence against women and girls.

“As parents and policy makers, we have a shared responsibility to see young boys and girls grow up and develop positive attitudes on sexuality which foster dignity instead of objectification and affection instead of coercion,” said MP Viersen. “I want to thank the Liberal Government for the support they announced today for this important motion.

For more information on M-47, please see briefing kit located under the M-47 tab on this website.

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