LONDON – MPP Peggy Sattler (London West), Shadow Minister for Colleges, Universities, Research Excellence and Security, issued the following statement in response to the Hockey Canada trial:
“This is a difficult moment for survivors everywhere,” said Sattler. “This trial has reignited dialogue about the importance of consent education across our province and within our institutions. It is a stark reminder of the systemic challenges that survivors face when seeking justice and the work that lies ahead.
“What survivors hear today is a clear message that there is still a wide gap between what we know about real consent and the culture that has been fostered in our communities.”
On June 3rd, MPPs Kristyn Wong-Tam (Toronto Centre), Alexa Gilmour (Parkdale—High Park), Chandra Pasma (Ottawa West – Nepean), and Peggy Sattler (London West) tabled a bill to officially designate the third week of September Consent Awareness Week, creating an annual opportunity to promote consent education in our communities, schools, and workplaces.
“Today’s judgement calls greater attention to the need for this bill. We have a long way to go in changing the culture that allows sexual violence to persist in the shadows. It is imperative that we take a stand and send a clear message that consent and respect are non-negotiable.”
MPP Sattler is calling on the government to pass the Consent Awareness Week Act as soon as the Legislature returns in October.