Volume XXXVI Issue No. 2 June 2017 INSIDE

Shawna Sparrow: Charter or Rights and Freedoms Strikes Again ❑ Page 6 Saskatchewan pro-life supporters during the provincial March for Life held in Regina on May 11.

CANADA’S ABSENT LEGAL PROTECTION THE BIG LIE: ‘Abortion is a constitutional right’ By Don Hutchinson tion of the Criminal Code that became law abortion committee. Ottawa is facing a fl ag fl ap. The National in 1969. Section 251 maintained abortion In a blog from May 27, 2014, I noted: March for Life fl ag was raised at city hall as illegal in Canada, providing exception In speaking to law school students on this in the morning on May 11, 2017, and taken only for instances of medically therapeutic case, I conduct a brief show of hands quiz down in the afternoon. As Canada’s capi- reasons. The exception to the continuing on whether they have been taught in fi rst tal city you can easily imagine that Ottawa general prohibition required the abortions to year constitutional law that there is a right hosts a number of local, provincial, national be performed in a hospital following review to abortion and whether they have actu- and international events. Many are accom- and approval of the health reasons by a com- ally read the Morgentaler 1988 decision for panied by the symbolic raising of a fl ag at mittee of three doctors. themselves. The majority typically say yes city hall. That fl ag pole has become some- The Prime Minister of the day was the to the former and no to the latter. thing of a symbol for free speech. current Prime Minister’s father. In regard I encourage those law students, you, and Red Deer Prolife For the 20th year in a row, thousands of to the new law, Pierre Trudeau stated, “You Mr. Trudeau, to read the decision. It’s avail- by Angela Shaw Canadians fi lled the lawn and sidewalks of know, at some point you are killing life in able online. Don’t worry about whether you Parliament Hill, the seat of our democracy. the foetus in self-defence – of what? Of the will understand the legalese. Instead, make ❑ The past few years, police have erected bar- three columns on a piece of paper. In the Page 12 ricades on Parliament Hill and along the fi rst column write the names of the seven march route. Not to control pro-life partici- Canada’s absent legal protec- judges who decided the case. In the second pants but to protect them from opponents, tion for children prior to birth is column put a check mark beside the name of who in recent years have engaged in hateful, an issue of much conversation each judge who decided there is a constitu- and harmful, displays such as throwing con- but little action from the major- tional right to abortion. In the third column doms and other items at marchers, spitting put a check mark beside the name of each on marchers and other acts designed to pro- ity of Canadian politicians. judge who decided it is the jurisdiction of voke a negative response. — Don Hutchinson Parliament to make a law prohibiting or re- Canada’s absent legal protection for chil- stricting abortion. You’ll end up with seven dren prior to birth is an issue of much con- check marks in the third column and none in versation but little action from the majority mother’s health or her happiness or of her the second (unless you place one beside Jus- of Canadian politicians. The limited action social rights or her privilege as a human be- tice Wilson based on a disputed statement; of today’s political environment includes ing? I think she should have to answer for it and still, you’ll put a check beside her name Prime Minister Justin Trudeau’s edict that and explain. Now, whether it should be to in column 3). The Supreme Court Justices those who support protection for children three doctors or one doctor or to a priest or a even offer their opinions on what a constitu- before birth are unwelcome in the political bishop or to her mother-in-law is a question tionally acceptable abortion law would look party he leads, and the written demand from you might want to argue …. You do have a like. several Ottawa city councillors that the fl ag right over your own body – it is your body. The court was unanimous that Parliament be taken down. In the process, the Prime But the foetus is not your body; it’s someone has a constitutional interest in the child be- Minister and councillors mistakenly assert a else’s body. And if you kill it, you’ll have to fore birth. In fact, shortly after the decision, “right” to abortion as their rationale. explain.” (Montreal Star, May 25, 1972) a legislative attempt to replace the section Love, Hope, and The matter of unregulated availability of In 1988, the Supreme Court of Canada struck down in Morgentaler passed the publicly funded abortion in Canada is the re- found that the requirements to fi rst meet House of Commons, passed two votes in the Endless Will sult of a Supreme Court of Canada decision with a therapeutic abortion committee, and Senate and then died because of a tie on the to Live made in 1988, and the subsequent failure of then have the medical procedure performed fi nal vote. Several Senators were absent for Parliament to follow the court’s direction to in a hospital, posed a risk to life for women the third vote, and the Speaker of the Sen- ❑ enact suitably constitutional legislation for who might qualify for a legal abortion but ate determined that on a tie vote it was his Page 13 the protection of children prior to birth. would experience delays because of their See THE BIG LIE, page 2 At issue in the Morgentaler case was a sec- distance from a hospital with a therapeutic FALSE ASSUMPTIONS President’s Message Fake News Leads to Abortion, Euthanasia By Colette Stang and Fake Religion ation. Sex, however, has been separated from procreation, and as a result sexual deviancy is being promoted by media as if it was normal, and governments are starting to use schools to indoctrinate children to their perverted views. The assumption by mainstream media that the more gov- By Tom Schuck ernment programs for the poor the better, is also fake. Social The last month has been a marathon of life events in programs are only sustainable when there are strong fam- Saskatchewan. ilies who can sustain the government funding that sustains On April 11 Mike Schouten, Deina Warren (lawyer), the programs, and if family life continues to deteriorate, it is a foster parent and myself met with the Sask. Party inevitable that at some point, the increasing casualties from Human Services Caucus Committee to discuss the failing families will make government programs that sup- importance of continuing the push for parental consent “Trump asked God to “bless America” in his Thanksgiv- port the casualties unsustainable. legislation. A parental consent law would protect min- ing address last year after it had been omitted eight years in Many of our mainline faiths have been converted by ors from coercion, exploitation and their own immatur- a row by former President Obama. media. They, too, place their faith in the material benefi ts ity, and protect parental rights where parents have the Last December, he told supporters, “We’re gonna start of government social programs. They are so infl uenced by best interest of the minor in mind. Later that evening saying ‘Merry Christmas’ again.” our culture, that even they do not recognize the need of hav- Mike and I met with the Reverence for Life Committee The swearing-in ceremony of Trump’s top White House from the Regina RC Diocese, where we discussed plans staff in January strongly emphasized God. for the October Reverence for Life Month. Trump concluded his inaugural speech with a reference “Many of our mainline faiths have been I attended the SPLA Convention in Moose Jaw from to God’s protection.” converted by media. They, too, place their April 27 to 29. The convention was hosted by Moose All of the above was reported lately in Lifesite News. faith in the material benefi ts of government Jaw Right to Life. Thank you to Jean Landry and all Now it has been reported that vice-president Pence and social programs. They are so infl uenced by the MJRTL members who worked so hard to put on eight other members of Trump’s cabinet meet every week our culture, that even they do not recognize a wonderful convention with fantastic speakers. The for a bible study and prayer. banquet keynote speaker, Jonathan Van Maren, was Pence is an Evangelical, and it is no wonder that Evan- the need of having godly leaders.” selling his book the “Culture War.” He explained how gelicals continue to increase across North America. They — Tom Schuck Christians are often caught off-guard by well-planned act like God really does exist. I cannot help but ask myself, and brilliantly executed strategies by ruthless activists when will Canada’s mainstream religions wake up and act who have time and sometimes seemingly endless funds as though there really is a God, waiting for our nation to ing godly leaders. It is no wonder political representatives to carry out these plans. return to him and ask for His protection. can ignore the great issues affl icting family life, such as My husband Rob and I attended the Knights of FAKE NEWS improper sexual behavior, and instead support the killing Columbus State banquet on April 29. Thank you to the Our mainstream media elite (“media”) prefer to scoff at of the unborn and old. During elections, Christian people, Knights for always being soldiers in the ‘Culture War.’ leaders that exhibit any outward signs of the presence of led by their spiritual leaders, place a greater emphasis on On May 1, I set up an SPLA table at the CWL Sas- God in their lives, as though they were the ones that were material things than life itself. It is no wonder that most katoon Diocesan Convention in Watrous, where I sold all knowing. The faith of our leaders in their view is a non- Christians (other than Evangelicals) vote for political rep- many “Euthanasia Deception” DVDs and shared in- issue, and is to be kept private. That assumption results in resentatives and parties that champion abortion, euthanasia, formation on the palliative volunteer training program, much of their reporting as fake. Their news is based upon pornography, gay and transsexual rights, and who appoint “Dying Healed,” which is currently being piloted in a false assumption that there is no God, and therefore you Saskatchewan and Vancouver. judges who share their views. are free to kill yourself through euthanasia, or kill your Mainstream media does indeed deliver fake news. But On Thursday, May 11, SPLA, Sask. Knights of own unborn child as though the child belongs to you. Both Columbus and Campaign Life Coalition Saskatchewan pathetically, many of our spiritual leaders have been con- euthanasia and abortion is supported by media. However, verted to their view that government programs are more im- co-hosted the 2017 Saskatchewan March for Life in because there is a God, your life and the life of others be- Regina. The 2017 March for Life planning committee portant than living decently and life itself, and the assump- long not yourself, but to Him. tion that whatever one does sexually with their body is not worked very hard organizing this event and plans for Much of their news is also fake because they start from that important, or worse, is acceptable. the 2018 March for Life are already underway and set a premise that it is normal to separate sex from procreation We now have too many fake religions and too many fake for Tuesday, May 8, 2018. and use sex as one’s own personal entertainment center. SPLA staff, board and volunteers have limited That is not normal. One of God’s purposes for sex is procre- spiritual leaders as well. time and resources, but we do what we can to counter the decline in morality and respect for life in Sas- katchewan. Thank you to everyone who helps, your continued participation and fi nancial support are key components in countering this “Culture War” in which we are engulfed. The Big Lie SPLA continues to stand up for the protection of all (Continued from front page) life from conception to natural death. responsibility to declare that the proposed legislation had Thank you to everyone for prayers and support. God Bless. not passed and therefore he voted against it. Since that time Canada has remained without legal pro- tection for the “someone else’s body” identifi ed in the state- ment made by Prime Minister Pierre Trudeau. Distinctly, the only democracy in the world that fails to offer protec- tion even to the medically viable pre-born child. The March for Life, like similar protests on Parliament Hill, demonstrates that there are Canadians who desire Par- liament take political action on an unsettled question, one that is literally a matter of life and death. The only right at issue in raising and lowering the fl ag at city hall is the constitutional right to freedom of expression, free speech on whether Parliament will exercise its recog- nized constitutional authority in the life of yet-to-be-born citizens by providing protection of the law or continue to withhold that protection. Raise the fl ag. Let’s have the conversation. Don Hutchinson is a Christian leader and lawyer. He writes at www.donhutchinson.ca

Choose Life News ADVERTISEMENTS: Regina SK S4R 8R8 Editor: Fr. Jeffrey Stephaniuk Four issues per year $100 per four issues; Phone: 306-352-3480 Box 1652 Wynyard SK S0A 4T0 Canadian Publication Mail $150 for larger ads Fax: 306-352-3481 Phone: (306) 560-8885 Sales Agreement #0461075 E-mail: [email protected] E-mail: [email protected] Subscription Rate*: $25 per year Published by: www.saskprolife.com Editorial Committee (also includes): Youth Rate*: $10 per year Saskatchewan Editor Emeritus John Sidloski *Includes SPLA Membership Pro-Life Association Please make CLN Press Fund Marcy Millette Single Copy $2 (call for bulk rates) Box 27093 Avonhurst RPO donations to the SPLA. Colette Stang

Choose Life News June 2017 Page 2 EDUCATION Hope Endures: “We have the truth, and the truth is more powerful Inaugural Teen-Aid Scholarship By Shawna Sparrow would become relevant to me when the same way someday. I want him to than we think.” I got older. I made a commitment to know that I have been preparing for his —Jonathon Van For the fi rst time, Teen-Aid Sas- katchewan offered a scholarship this “save myself for marriage” and be- arrival for many years – long before I Maren, year to Grade 12 students across Sas- lieved I had done all that I needed to do knew him. I want him to know that I Canadian Centre katchewan. Young people who prac- and knew all that I needed to know on valued myself, him, and our marriage for Bio-Ethical tice chastity deserve to be honored the subject. As with most things that I enough to prepare for it in advance. I Reform. alongside students being celebrated for thought I had mastered at the ripe old want him to know that I have prepared their achievements in academics and age of 12, my understanding was not myself - mind, body and soul, for the sports. The scholarship entry process complete and, over the years, I have moment we would become husband involved the submission of a written come to know that chastity is not just and wife. One of the best ways to pre- speech by each applicant. The speech a commitment we make one day and pare myself for my future spouse is to honour my commitment to chastity. CANADA AT 150 topic was: How has chastity impacted then forget about it. It’s a commitment your life and what role can it play in we make today and every day that fol- Making the decision to choose chas- today’s marriages, families and soci- lows. It’s a lifelong promise to myself, tity was the easy part – living it out Common themes ety? In early April, 10 semi-fi nalists my future spouse and to God. in our society has proven to be more presented their speeches and three There are two ways to present the diffi cult than originally anticipated. I fi nalists were selected to advance. The idea of chastity - we can either focus often fi nd myself in uncomfortable at this year’s speech fi nals were held on April 22 on the negative consequences of not situations because most of my friends as part of Teen-Aid Saskatoon’s an- choosing chastity or we can focus on do not share my views on chastity. I convention the positive possibilities of choosing have set my standards extremely high By Fr. Jeffrey D. Stephaniuk nual fundraising banquet. The winners were: this path. We can tell people about and am often chastised by my peers for Moose Jaw Right to Life organized the Saskatchewan 1st Place: A $1,000 scholarship the many dangers that exist if they do “being way too picky” and “never even Pro-Life Association convention for 2017. The events were was awarded to Cascilla Christopher not practice chastity – diseases, failed giving anyone a chance”. Whenever hosted at St. Joseph parish, Church of Our Lady parish, and from Bishop James Mahoney High marriages etc. Although it is important this peer pressure hits and I feel my Vanier Collegiate Institute. Although there were various lo- School in Saskatoon. to know those facts it is, in my opinion, resolve starting to slip I remind myself cations for the meetings, banquet, and conference, and al- 2nd Place: A $300 scholarship was better to focus on all the benefi ts that why I made this decision in the fi rst though there were several speakers who addressed a variety awarded to Mara Teare from Holy can be achieved when we choose chas- place. I don’t think of the STI’s that I of topics, a unity of themes emerges when they are con- Cross High School in Saskatoon. tity. Instead of telling people all of the am avoiding (although that is a huge sidered together. As Jonathon van Maren, Communications 3rd Place: A $200 scholarship was reasons that I don’t want to live an un- bonus), I think of my future spouse and Director for the Canadian Centre for Bio-Ethical Reform awarded to Miguel De Los Reyes chaste life, I prefer to tell them about the incredible gift that I will be able to stated at the Friday evening banquet, “We have the truth, from E.D Feehan High School. the many reasons that I do. As a young give him on my wedding day because and the truth is more powerful than we think.” The essay entries of all 10 semi- woman I can’t help but think about my I decided today and every day that I Dr. Brett Salkeld, theologian for the Roman Catholic fi nalists were simply amazing. It is future spouse. What will he look like? would wait for him. For me, that is the Archdiocese of Regina, stated this truth in a simple phrase, tragic that popular programs such as What kind of laugh will he have? Will point of Chastity. “It is never okay to kill an innocent person.” In the con- the Netfl ix series “13 Reasons Why” he prefer dry popcorn or the really but- Committing to chastity before mar- text of medical aid in dying nightmare unleashed in Canada portray teens as being immersed in tery kind? It is fun to try to imagine the riage helps a person grow and get to in the past few months, he explained that “the refusal to suicide, alcohol and drug use, bully- person I might marry someday. Know- know themselves better. In turn, this kill someone is not the same as keeping people alive at all ing and sexual abuse. Sadly, these ing that it is my desire to get married improves the success rate of marriages, costs… There is a clear line between killing people and let- issues do exist, but they do not tell the one day, it is important for me to take encourages positive family dynamics ting them die.” His talk reminded me of the line from St. whole story. There is still light in the my future spouse into consideration and improves our society in general. Thomas Aquinas on love: love means willing the good of hearts and lives of young people. The in my day to day life right now. How Studies show a signifi cant increase in the other as other. However, willing the death of another can scholarship contest demonstrated that will my actions today affect my future the success of marriages where both never be an expression of love. young people are capable of practicing spouse and my future marriage? parties committed to chastity before Similarly, not all claims to compassion are synonymous. chastity, even in today’s world, and In a sacramental marriage two marriage. By waiting for marriage, When Denae Pellerin and Kathrina Dixon ended the con- that they are hungry for the hope it of- people stand before God and promise spouses show each other that they ference Saturday afternoon with their story about saving a fers. I would like to share the winning to love and honour each other all the value themselves enough to know that baby from abortion through their volunteer work with the speech, with permission from Cascilla days of their lives. All the days of our they were worth waiting for. What a University of Saskatchewan Students For Life, they spoke Christopher. I can offer no greater lives include the days we are living beautiful gift to give a spouse – the about learning what it means to be compassionate pro-life. testimony to the impact of the Teen- right now – we need to honor, love, knowledge that you loved them even True compassion must be above and beyond discrimination, Aid program than to share her inspir- and commit to our spouses at this mo- before you met – enough to save such including the counterfeit argument of making fi nancial pov- ing words. ment even if we haven’t met them yet. a special gift for them alone. Starting a erty a sacrosanct demand and defence for abortion. Hopefully we all know the feeling of marriage on these grounds is a proven Denae Pellerin explained how she matured in her pro- Good evening everyone. My name visiting someone who has been anx- method of increasing the chances of a life thinking, and described the incident through which she, is Cascilla Christopher – I am here to iously awaiting and preparing for our successful fulfi lling marriage. similar to Dr. Salkeld, was able to express the truth about talk about the impact that chastity has arrival. When I go to my grandma’s at Another thing that I have learned human life in a very succinct statement: “It is objectively had on my life and how signifi cant of a Christmas she is super excited when about chastity is that it is just as im- true that the pre-born are human beings killed by abortion”. role it plays in today’s marriages, fam- we walk in the door. The house looks portant within marriage as it is before She developed in her own life what Gregg Cunningham ex- ilies, and society. festive, she has gifts for us under the marriage. Being chaste means to re- plained about why he started Center for Bio-Ethical Reform I fi rst heard about chastity when a tree and she has many of our favorite main pure in mind and spirit. Within in the early 1990s: the plight of the mother is compelling representative from Teen Aid visited treats set out for us to enjoy. It is so marriage it includes the need to be and tangible, but the human being in the pre-born time of my classroom way back in elementary heartwarming to know that she spent faithful to your spouse as you respect one’s development can be suspended in a fantasy world of school. Although dating was not really days preparing for our much antici- and value them in all aspects. This intangibility and abstraction unless the consent of will is on my radar at that point, I knew this pated arrival. I want my spouse to feel means abstaining from pornography, added to the work of learning intellectually that a baby is and other degrading objects, pictures already a baby once fertilization initiates the fi re of new life. and online sites. Naturally, following Like those who advocate the idea of being spiritual with- this kind of lifestyle will have posi- out being religious, there was a time when Denae says she tive effects on children and family was “pro-life but didn’t like the pro-life movement.” After life. Children will learn how to love meeting a pregnant mom through the pregnancy support authentically and will grow up know- table they organized at the University of Saskatchewan, and ing to love and respect one another over the next several months saving that baby from abor- completely. They will learn that love tion, she realized “the necessity of all the different avenues requires putting the other person fi rst of the pro-life movement.” instead of simply looking at what you And, in a manner that proves the value of Gregg Cun- can get out of the relationship. ningham’s insight into willing to work hard intellectually to Committing to chastity also bene- move from seeing something as intangible to seeing some- fi ts families and societies in ways that one that is so palpable that they evoke a desire to protect and almost do not seem connected. When defend them, she shared the insights of her transformation we choose chastity before marriage about the meaning of true compassion: “This week the in- we choose to place our future spouse justice of abortion fi nally makes sense to me,” she wrote in and our marriage above the desire for her diary about what it meant to look at life from the point immediate satisfaction. Sadly in our of view of the pre-born child who “has no idea that there society many people struggle with the is a countdown on her.” She went from once thinking that ability to delay gratifi cation. Families compassion and empathy meant that abortion must be kept The very f rst scholarship winners, left to right: Mara Teare, Cascilla Christo- crumble under the weight of increasing See CONVENTION, page 7 pher and Miguel De Los Reyes at the Teen-Aid Saskatoon banquet on April 22. See TEEN-AID, page 6

The articles and opinions expressed in published material in Choose Life News are those of the authors and not necessarily those of Saskatchewan Pro-Life Association Inc. The publication of articles is the sole responsibility of the editor.

Choose Life News June 2017 Page 3 IN DEFENSE OF THE DEFENSELESS LETTERS TO THE EDITOR OPEN LETTER TO Every Life is Worth the Same ALL MEMBERS OF THE ONTARIO Susan Thompson idea that some lives matter less. Although fewer in number, LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY cultureshiftforlife.com there are also those who actively fi ght against this ideology. We urge you to immediately introduce an amendment At the age of 28, I found out I was pregnant with quintup- If you count yourself among those who know that killing to recently enacted Bill 84 (Medical Assistance in Dying lets. Immediately, my doctor talked to me about selective prenatal children is wrong, then now is the time to shake Statute Law Amendment Act, 2017) to include a provi- reduction. When I said no, he sent me to a specialist who off your apathy and take a stand to preserve our collective sion for the freedom of conscience guaranteed by the repeatedly asked me to consider reducing my pregnancy to humanity. Now is the time to turn your anger and disgust Universal Declaration of Human Rights, which states in triplets or even twins. This went on for several months. My into action. How many more must die before all of us realize Article 18 “Everyone has the right to freedom of thought, husband and I never considered this, not for a second. God that killing innocent human beings is wrong, no matter their conscience and religion...” These were not just empty had given us these tiny children and He would take care of size, location, or level of dependency? words but a sturdy foundation for civilized democracy, them. 20 years later I look back and can’t imagine our lives Speak Up to Stop Pre-Natal Discrimination purchased with blood. It is outrageous to now cast the without any of them. After graduation, three joined the mil- Parents not only kill their children in the womb because aside these ideals! itary to serve our country and two are pursuing careers in they are unwanted, they kill them because they are mentally It is not illegal for any citizen to refuse to materially the medical fi eld. They are all responsible adults who love or physically challenged. They kill them because they are cooperate in procedures to end the life of any human God and make this world a better place. I chose to save their the ‘wrong’ sex and they kill them because they have an im- being. It is a violation of citizens’ basic freedoms for lives and now they are saving the lives of others. perfection like cleft palate. How much longer before there’s any governing authority to punish honourable men and Training to Kill Human Beings a prenatal test for homosexuality? Will this awaken the lib- women for following their conscience by limiting them Incredibly, we’ve used millions of years of evolutionary eral left to the need to fi nally speak up in their defense? or excluding them from full participation in our public gains in intelligence and self-awareness to turn against our If a mother chooses to abort her child only because they medical system, as the College of Physicians and Sur- own young. This is an image of two human beings, a prod- are different, not because she doesn’t want to be pregnant, geons proposes to do. uct of this evolution, studying a book that was researched, why shouldn’t she be able to kill that same child after birth Even during wartime, a time of national crisis when printed, and published by other members of our species for for the same reason? After all, it’s not really about “her Canada’s existence as a nation was threatened and cit- the express purpose of killing our own offspring. Not only body, her choice” in this case, it’s about her child’s body. izens were conscripted into the armed forces, Canadians have we perverted medical science as a way to destroy hu- Aborting a child because of their characteristics is the ul- have been free to claim non-lethal service with conscien- man life instead of protecting it, we celebrate this ‘advance- timate and most deadly form of discrimination imaginable. tious objector status. The freedom to adopt standards of ment’ as a human right. The silence is deafening from those who claim to fi ght for conscience at odds with those of governing authorities Fortunately, there are millions among us who reject the human equality. is an important component of the freedoms enjoyed in Canada. We are dismayed to fi nd any Canadian citizen being punished by a college of physicians and surgeons for peaceful conscientious objection simply because that VOTING GUIDES conscientious objection dissents from the views of an- other social group. True secular equality demands that no social group Is Campaign Life Political? may impose its standards of conscience upon another or Abortion on demand did not come to Canada in one swell suppress the free conscientious objections of those whose swoop. It will not end with one. Politicians must work with views differ from their own. The honourable men and the culture, and pro-life politicians can have enormous in- women who serve us in the medical profession should fl uence in changing culture … if elected. Campaign Life be free to conclude that materially cooperating in taking By Tom Schuck is such a clumsy actor within the political scene, it is truly the life of any human being violates their conscience and questionable whether their endorsement is helpful or a lia- free to conscientiously object to such cooperation. bility. Some candidates rightfully question the value of their You need not agree with any specifi c view about as- endorsement if they trumpet to the pro-aborts who not to sisted suicide to champion the freedom of conscience for which our forebears sacrifi ced and fought. That freedom vote for. is an important bulwark of democracy because individ- ual conscience permits a focus of loyalty capable of chal- Campaign Life published a voting guide online for the lenging the otherwise supreme power of civil authorities. election of the next leader of the Conservative Party of Can- Imposing barriers to the practice of their livelihood ada. They refer to themselves as the political arm of the pro- against honourable men and women simply because their life movement. beliefs don’t meet with the approval of some other social They recommended two candidates that promised to open group contradicts Canadians’ hard-won freedom of con- the abortion debate in Parliament, and are solidly prolife. science. Please champion freedom by moving that Bill What was shocking was that they urged their readers not to 84 be amended to guarantee the freedom of medical pro- vote for anyone else on the preferential ballot. As a result, fessionals to conscientiously object to materially cooper- if the two that agreed with their strategy dropped off the ating in procedures to end the life of any human being. preferential ballot, the prolife people who voted for them —The Democracy Defence Initiative, would lose all infl uence in determining the outcome in the Per: Stephen C. Woodworth. leadership of the Conservative Party. It is the most irrational decision that I have ever heard of, and from a prolife organization that thinks they are polit- ical! Politics is the art of the possible. Do they advise pro- life people not to vote at all in elections where none of the candidates running agree to end all abortion tomorrow? In this leadership contest, there may indeed be some can- didates that are also prolife, but may just think they have a better chance of winning without the endorsement of Cam- paign Life … staying under the radar so to speak. Some people vote against prolife people, and most people consider fi nancial issues much more important than life issues. Even those who work in my church’s social justice programs do not consistently vote for prolife candidates (some like NDP and Liberal social programs so much they would kill for them). There may also be candidates that will not end all abortion, but may support the end of funding to pro-abortion organizations, like Planned Parenthood, as Harper at one time did. The Harper Conservatives also objected to abor- tion funding to the third world maternal health programs, without changing any legislation. Is that not an improve- ment to a diehard abortion rights advocate that refuses to let prolife people run as a candidate? Politics is the art of the possible. It is obvious that the reason for not seeking a prolife person after the two they endorsed is that Campaign Life wants only someone who follows their rule ... a candidate that is prepared to fall on his sword to protect the unborn … even if it means losing the election. Is it even possible to end all abortion in our cul- ture, a culture where most everyone either had an abortion or knows someone they love that did? Saskatchewan Pro-Life Association P.O. Box 27093, Avonhurst R.P.O., Regina SK S4R 8R8 Toll Free: 1-888-842-7752 E-mail: [email protected] Web: www.saskprolife.com Facebook: www.facebook.com/SaskProLife.com Twitter: @SaskProLife

Choose Life News June 2017 Page 4 DEHUMANIZATION Abortion is Canada’s

By Fr. Jeffrey D.Holodomor Stephaniuk of conception, or denigrated as mere tissue, or assumed to be dead until birth. On the Holodomor means to kill by hunger, or cultureshift website these manipulations to torture with hunger. It occurred when of language are shown to have a Canadian farmland was collectivized in Ukraine in connection, quoting Joyce Arthur: “A fetus the 1930s, and the Ukrainian farm family, is not a separate individual – it lives inside which had a reputation for having many a pregnant woman and depends on her for children, was destroyed. its growth. In fact, the biological defi nition Lessons learned from the Ukrainian fam- of “parasite” fi ts the fetal mode of growth ine are relevant for life in Saskatchewan and precisely…” Then the Nazi German view Canada today. First, language and law were of life is introduced in a quote from Adolph manipulated to de-humanize the Ukrain- Hitler: “The Jew was always only a parasite Mike Schouten spoke at SPLA’s annual convention in Moose Jaw and presented his ex- ian farmer. Once it was declared that they in the body of other peoples.” In his work on perience in meeting with the Human Services Caucus Committee. -photo Josh Witzaney were not human beings, it became possible the psychology of totalitarianism, Dr. Jor- to justify their murder. This same ideology dan Peterson cites such quotes from Hitler made the Holocaust possible, through a as an indication that disgust and revulsion GOSPEL OF LIFE proclamation that Jews were not human be- are a motivation for mass murder. ings. In his novel, Forever Flowing, Vasilii Statistics bureaus registered deaths dur- Grossman speaks about the Holocaust and ing the Holodomor as death by “digestive the Holodomor: “In order to massacre them ailment.” Our statistics count late-term Foster Parent it was necessary to proclaim that (they) are abortion as “stillbirth” and those born alive not human beings.” through induced labour abortion are cat- The authors of cultureshiftforlife.com egorized as having received palliative care. Addresses Human offer these connections between the Nazi After birth, they are starved to death or are ideology in general and abortion: “The allowed to bleed to death. Services Committee Nazis believed that the mentally and phys- During the Ukrainian Holodomor (1932- ically disabled should be killed because 33), the life source of food, so rich and they were a threat to their fi nancial well abundant and comforting, was turned into a “Do not ignore this current void” being and a burden on their society. Abor- weapon of mass destruction. Evil strikes at By Fr. Jeffrey D. Stephaniuk ces Caucus Committee that meets to delib- tion groups believe that mothers should be the heart of life. It takes what is good and erate policy and make recommendations to able to kill their mentally or physically dis- “Tell the government this is not a politic- makes it perverted. Now that the Holodo- the government. Since the provincial gov- abled children while preborn because they mor education bus has visited Saskatch- al risk” to have parental consent for minors, ernment receives reports from foster parents will be a threat to their fi nancial well being ewan, people will understand the following advised Mike Schouten when he made his about minors in their care, the current gap and a burden on their family.” reference: abortion is Canada’s Holodomor. presentation on the Parental Consent Cam- and void in parental consent for abortion Malcolm Muggeridge, writing in The Hu- paign during the Saskatchewan Pro-Life directly affects the provincial government mane Holocaust, had a comment about the Association annual convention in Moose in its own legal responsibility to foster chil- Holocaust that similarly explains the evil of Jaw on April 29, 2017. “At that age, they dren. the Ukrainian Holodomor and what we are need their parents to guide them.” A parental consent law would represent doing in Canada with abortion, namely the ABOUT THE He spoke about the term civilized dem- common ground for all residents, those denial of morality in favour of an arbitrary HOLODOMOR ocracies, of which Canada is on the outside who, as Mike Schouten characterizes the practical materialism: “Initially, the Holo- looking in. We are in the same company as issue, work to see “justice for teenage girls caust was aimed, not against Jews or Slavs, MOBILE CLASSROOM North Korea and China, dictatorships that and pre-born children” on the one hand, and but against handicapped Aryan Germans, An hour-long interactive les- dispense with the obligation to hold oneself those who demand and defend abortion on and was justifi ed, not by racial theories but son for the HMC was developed to as high a standard as possible regarding the other. Since the provincial government by Hegelian utilitarianism, whereby what- by Valentina Kuryliw, Director the nature of the human person and the gov- has the jurisdiction and responsibility for ever is useful is per se good…” of Education for Holodomor ernment’s role in defending innocent human foster children, a parental consent law could This psychological, legal, and moral Research and Education Con- individuals. only be of assistance to our government in technique of de-humanization is used here sortium, who has more than 30 About the three-year parental consent administering their responsibilities. “My ap- in Canada to promote abortion, even though years of experience teaching campaign, he reported that there have been peal to you as a foster parent is that you do a democracy must have a higher standard of history. Students learn to in- three meetings with legislative committees not ignore the current void,” stated one of defi nition for human life than that of a to- vestigate sources and analyze at the Saskatchewan legislature. The most the witnesses who attended the Human Ser- talitarian regime. Other similarities include artifacts such as documents, recent meeting was with the Human Servi- vices meeting. the authoritarian policy of demanding that photos, newspaper articles, let- all candidates in the federal Liberal Party of ters, and survivor accounts Canada be pro-abortion if they want to run through material loaded on indi- for offi ce in a democracy, and the insistence vidual iPads and displayed on a GOSPEL OF LIFE on spending hundreds of millions of dollars 28-foot video wall. on abortion internationally. In a democracy, It can accommodate up to 33 International Standards Abortion we must learn and codify a higher anthro- visitors at a time. pology than that followed by totalitarian The HMC experience under- regimes and dictatorships. The very possi- scores the consequences of Law and Freedom of Speech bility of democracy depends on an honest hate, oppression and discrimin- By Fr. Jeffrey D. Stephaniuk ous committees and presentations, in many defi nition of what it means to be a human ation and the importance of tol- Mr. Schouten, Executive Director at of its member countries abortion is illegal being, on a profound and authentic anthro- erance, human rights and the We Need A Law, introduced a project en- or restricted. When the argument is made pology rule of law. that the United Nations overrules the au- titled the “International Standards Abor- Language and law have been manipulat- www.holodomortour.ca tion Law” at the annual convention of the tonomy of nation states, France, Spain, and ed to de-humanize human beings in the pre- Saskatchewan Pro-Life Association 2017. Germany become a correction on the laissez natal time of their development, as products Among the many complications inherent in faire approach to abortion in Canada, North the status quo of having no abortion laws Korea, and China. is that “Canada is way out of line with our There is also this offi cial statement of the international counterparts when it comes to United Nations in its Universal Declaration protecting pre-born human rights,” he said, on Human Rights: “The child by reason of quoting informational material on the cam- its physical and mental immaturity needs paign. Further, “our laws are not lining up special safeguards and care, including ap- with the reality of what Canadians either propriate legal protection before as well as believe or want.” after birth.” In other words, even the United The “International Standards Abortion Nations would support Mayor Greg Dionne Law” campaign explains that countries such of Prince Albert, Saskatchewan, in the exer- as France, Spain, and Germany uniformly cise of his duties as a duly elected offi cial. ban abortion after 12 weeks of pre-natal “I have only ever turned down one group development. This information is insightful and that was the Hells Angels,” he said. “I for what fl ag furor in Prince Albert because am a Canadian and I strongly believe in the protestors held up the United Nations freedom of speech and freedom of rights,” as an authority greater than the local, albeit he stated in “Pro-Life fl ag allowed to fl y at duly elected governance in a provincial Sas- city hall” by Jeff Labine for panow.com on katchewan city. Their argument goes like April 3, 2017, and updated on April 5, 2017. this: because the United Nations supports In an earlier article from 2016, entitled, abortion, city council is overruled. Choose Life News editor Fr. Jef rey Stephaniuk at the Holodomor: The Ukrainian Geno- “P.A. Mayor ‘confused and disappointed’ cide National Awareness Tour Bus, which was on tour in April in Wynyard, Sask. The hour- However, even though the United Na- See INTERNATIONAL, page 7 long presentation and displays were sponsored by the Canada Ukraine Foundation. tions advocates for abortion through vari-

Choose Life News June 2017 Page 5 LEGAL VACUUM REMARKS The Charter Strikes Again Continuity of the the Saskatchewan Court of Queen’s Bench ruling that non- Catholic students may no longer be funded to attend Cath- Pro-Life Message olic schools. The Charter was front and centre in the deci- By Lynda Millette sion. Justice Donald Layh held that provincial government I am from Nipawin, and am also a third year College stu- funding of non-minority faith students was a violation of dent from Our Lady Seat of Wisdom Academy in Barry’s the state’s duty of religious neutrality. He also stated the Bay Ontario By Shawna Sparrow funding of these students violates s. 2(a) freedom of reli- And I am 100% pro-life. gion and s. 15(1) equality rights. Thankfully Brad Wall has My grandparents would have been part of Saskatchewan decided to invoke the notwithstanding clause in defi ance of Pro-life Association when it began about 40 years ago. the court ruling. This is a bold and refreshing move, as the The message was clear then: Elect pro-life MLA’s and notwithstanding clause is rarely ever used. The ruling would MP’s who have integrity. Elect pro-life MLA’s and MP’s have been a blow to the pro-life movement in Saskatchewan. who will act on their convictions and pass pro-life Legisla- By attending Catholic schools, thousands of students, who tions protecting unborn babies and the vulnerable. would otherwise never hear a pro-life perspective, are edu- Some years ago, we lost the focus and got busy with many If you are a pro-life, pro-family, pro-faith individual, then cated about respect for life. In Christian Ethics classes, as educational projects. It seemed as though political activism it is likely that the Charter of Rights and Freedoms is behind well as through Teen-Aid presentations, these same students took the back pews. many of the court decisions you strongly disagree with. learn about the benefi ts of a chaste lifestyle. It is ironic that I am determined to bring back our original focus. Work- Abortion is legal in Canada because of the Charter: In R Justice Layh fi nds the funding to violate equality rights, ing with the Right Now Campaign and other like-minded v Morgentaler, the Supreme Court held that the lack of ac- because his ruling will result in inequality for non-Cath- groups, I plan on spending my summer gathering support cess to abortion violated the security of the person protected olic parents who want their children to receive faith-based of Sask Pro-Life’s mission of electing pro-life MLA’s and under s. 7 of the Charter. education. The only way for these parents to protect their MP’s. Safe-injection sites are legal because of the Charter: In The door to door campaign has resulted in huge wins in children from the public school system’s harmful messages 2011, the Health Minister’s decision not to grant an exemp- Ontario. We can and will do the same here. about sexuality and gender would be to pay over $10,000 tion from the Controlled Drugs and Substances Act to Insite, Please help us move forward and work with us through a year either to keep their children in Catholic schools or a safe-injection site in downtown Vancouver was held to be funding and time. Join SPLA’s political committee – we send them to a private Christian school. The ruling would contrary to the principles of fundamental justice. The deci- want to have, at least two people per Constituency on our sion to withhold the exemption was found to be arbitrary result in these families being denied equal benefi t of the law, committee. and grossly disproportionate in relation to its objective. The which is in itself a violation of s. 15. The four-point mandate is simple: Supreme Court ruled that the risk of death and disease to in- Not only does the Charter affront all the values pro-lifers 1. Join a Political Party that allows FREEDOM to vote ac- jection drug users outweighed any benefi t to a prohibition of hold dear, it is also rarely of any use to us when we try to cording to one’s conscience. illegal drugs on Insite’s premises, and thus violated section benefi t from its protections. When someone tries to shut 2. After you join the life-friendly Party, work with a pro- 7. In a shocking move, the Court ordered the exemption be down a pro-life display on university grounds, the pro-life life Candidate to win at the Nomination meeting. That will granted (Canada (AG) v PHS Community Services Society). students should be able to depend upon s. 2b of the Charter mean going door-to-door with a simple question: Until the Harper government responded with a new law, to protect their freedom of expression. However, the Charter Do you know that babies are killed up to the ninth month in prostitution was legal in Canada because of the Charter: In only applies to government action and cases such as Mc- this country? Like in China and North Korea? If they care, 2013, the Supreme Court struck down three provisions of Kinney v University of Guelph have found that university they will take out a membership. Most people will do just the Criminal Code related to prostitution (Canada v Bed- campuses are not subject to Charter scrutiny under s. 32. that. If they do not care, their names will be added to the list The court maintains that the government doesn’t exercise for future connections that we give to the Canadian Centre enough control over universities for them to be considered for Bio-Ethical Reform. government actors. As a result, there is nothing to stop uni- If there isn’t a pro-life Candidate, be one yourself. It isn’t versity offi cials from denying the right to expression. that diffi cult. The same problem may arise when physicians mount a 3. Vote for the pro-life Candidate at the Nomination meet- Charter challenge against the policies of various Colleges ing. of Physicians and Surgeons. In Ontario, there is already a 4. Work with that Candidate during the election process. policy in place that physicians must refer or in some cases Do whatever you can but be assured – this will work in gar- perform procedures regardless of conscience objections. nering pro-life people in this Legislature. One would hope physician advocacy groups could argue these policies infringe freedom of religion and conscience rights protected under s. 2(a) of the Charter. However, it must fi rst be established that the government exercises enough control over these boards that they can be considered gov- ernment actors. Otherwise, the Charter will not apply to the decisions of the College of Physicians and Surgeons. Even when the Charter does apply, it often doesn’t help us. When Bill Whatcott faced complaints from the Saskatchewan Hu- man Right Commission over fl yers he’d distributed in mail- boxes, he received no benefi t from the right of freedom of expression because two of the pamphlets were deemed to be We live in a country where the most im- hate speech. portant moral and social issues of the day You would think the words “right to life” in s. 7 would are not being decided by elected offi cials, speak directly to the pre-born. Who is more in need to have the right to life protected? Yet when Joseph Borowski but by judges who are free to interpret the Lynda Millette was one of the speakers featured during Charter as they see fi t. tried to raise this issue as a concerned citizen, the Supreme Court dismissed his appeal on the ground of “mootness” the March for Life in Regina in 1988. In the 1989 Tremblay v Daigle case, an expectant father looked to the Charter to prevent the mother of his ford). The provisions were held to prevent sex-workers from child from obtaining an abortion. He made the case that the engaging in a risky, but legal activity from taking steps to Teen-Aid fetus should be included in the term “everyone” under s. 7: continued from page 3 protect themselves from risks. Once again, the harm im- “Everyone has the right to life, liberty and security of the debt that is accumulated because they are told that they can posed by the prohibition was found to be grossly dispropor- person”. However, the Supreme Court did not address this tionate to the provision’s object of removing the nuisance of have everything right now – there is no need to put off that issue because, once again, the Charter did not apply. The holiday or those new clothes because loans are easy to get. prostitution from the streets. Chief Justice McLachlin com- suit was between two private individuals and there was no Chastity teaches us to see the bigger picture and to focus on pared the prostitution provisions to a law that makes it legal government action involved. the reward that we will achieve by not giving into our cur- to ride a bike but illegal to wear a helmet. It is a cruel irony that the Charter, which is supposed Medically assisted dying is legal because of the Charter: to protect rights and freedoms has resulted in suppressing rent desires. If more people would learn this skill our entire In the 1993 Sue Rodriguez case, the “sanctity of life” was them. Who would have expected that the constitutional right economy would thrive. deemed important enough to justify any infringement to to life, liberty and the security of the person would result I would like to close with one fi nal point. It is never too Section 7 caused by the prohibition against assisted dying. in hundreds of unborn babies losing their lives every single late to choose chastity. So many young people believe that if However, because of changes to the Section 7 analysis, day? Who would have thought that the right to life would they have made mistakes in the past that they are no longer the prohibition was no longer upheld in Canada v Carter somehow end up being used to justify assisted suicide? Or able to make a commitment to chastity. This is untrue. We in 2015. The objective of the prohibition was interpreted that “freedom of religion” would end up being interpreted as can always choose to make a commitment to chastity and as protecting vulnerable people from being pressured into “freedom from religion”? Under Canada’s system of consti- enjoy the gifts it provides. The past remains in the past – committing suicide. The Court found that because not every tutional supremacy, the destiny of millions of people hinges it is what we do now and in the future that really matters. person who wishes to commit suicide is vulnerable, the pro- on words like “arbitrary”, “overbroad” and “grossly dispro- Choosing chastity is always the right choice. We owe it to hibition was overbroad and could not be justifi ed under Sec- portionate”. We live in a country where the most important tion 1 as the total ban was not minimally impairing. The ourselves, our spouses, our children, and our community. moral and social issues of the day are not being decided by prohibition was also found to infringe upon “the right to Our lives are infi nitely valuable – let’s treat them that way. life” under s. 7. Some individuals were killing themselves elected offi cials, but by judges who are free to interpret the If you would like to contribute to next year’s scholarship before they wanted to, in the fear that when they were ready Charter as they see fi t. fund, please send your donation to: to die they would no longer be physically capable of taking Shawna Sparrow is the Provincial Coordinator for Teen- Teen-Aid SK their own lives without assistance. Aid Saskatchewan. She recently completed her fi rst year of 535 8th Street East The latest Charter decision to affect people of faith is law school at the University of Saskatchewan. Saskatoon SK S7H 0P9

Choose Life News June 2017 Page 6 Convention GOSPEL OF LIFE continued from page 3 available to poor mothers “when people have no respect for International Standards her body” to respecting and honouring the body of the in- nocent pre-born human being, realizing now that “abortion is selfi sh” and disrespectful. and Freedom of Speech the reason he was denied a venue at the Saskatoon Public When the real issue is men disrespecting women, what’s continued from page 5 needed isn’t abortion, the willful homicide of an already Library was because the administrators felt they needed to over fl ag protest,” by Nigel Maxwell, Dionne said, “We’ve censor themselves about what to do with a social conserva- existing human being, and a decision that is beyond one’s never denied a fl ag. I have denied use of memorial square jurisdiction and authority. What is needed instead is to com- tive or face the potential of someone else forcing them to and that’s because the applicant was a criminal organiza- censor themselves. municate with men and society in general about not being tion, they were a biker gang.” disrespectful to women. On this theme, the University of The “remove this fl ag” protestors are the new sheriffs An objective standard may be elusive, but it exists, as Saskatchewan pro-life group presentation and Jonathon in town, and the old system of justice, where a legitimate comments on the April 2017 panow story likewise attest: Van Maren’s talk on pornography are interconnected. charge must be placed, and the accused is presumed inno- Van Maren cited a research paper from the University “The municipality must remain a neutral entity. By pass- cent until proven guilty, is no longer a valid protocol of how of Texas entitled, “Pornography and Sexual Violence,” in ing a bylaw that either allows all (with exception for hate/ justice is conducted in Canada. The very being and essence which there is a statistic that 88% of such material depicts criminal organizations)… When a protestor is so disgusted and existence of the child of one’s pregnancy is so repulsive “an explicit aggression against women.” He sees the conse- by the cartoon fl ag and the politely worded, “Please let me to them, so disgusting, that one person alone has the author- quences for the recruitment of new volunteers for the pro- live,” that they make a hand-made sign demanding, “Re- ity to call for that living being’s execution as their judge, life movement as well: “men who look at porn feel ashamed move this fl ag now” and “not acceptable,” they are invoking jury, and executioner. to be involved in projects such as pro-life because of this ac- an authority, namely that they have the authority themselves The problem with the accusation of “discrimination tivity; it makes it nearly impossible to empathize with those over this issue, overriding even the premise of duly elected against women”, is that like the phrase, one man’s terrorist we need to empathize with…Pornography is anti-culture. It offi cials legitimately running the city. is another man’s freedom fi ghter, the line keeps moving. saps one’s desire to do good.” I remember a sociology class What I’ve learned from Dr. Jordan Peterson’s criticism of You should see how the violence of abortion is a discrimina- in university in which the professor spoke of these effects Bill C-16 is the expectation of self-censorship in these mat- tion against the life of the human being in the pre-born time in the context of resistance efforts to the changes that the ters of the biology, identity, and expression of sexuality; to of one’s life! As Malcolm Muggeridge wrote in his work Nazis were effecting in Germany in the 1930s, how porn be our own judge, jury and executioner over ourselves. And on the Holocaust and abortion in “The Humane Holocaust:” disintegrates the unity of the culture and discourages people from M-103 there is a corollary, namely that any individ- “Either life is always and in all circumstances sacred, or is from fi nding the moral courage within themselves to work ual has the authority and jurisdiction to be judge, jury, and intrinsically of no account; it is inconceivable that it should for a common and public cause. executioner over me if they are not satisfi ed with the either be in some cases the one, and in some the other.” Van Maren’s writing on this topic is found in his book, the nature, pace, or tone of my own self-censorship. Even There is presently a court case in Grand Prairie, Alberta, The Culture War, and also in blog entries, such as one he in the case of Conservative Party of Candidate Brad Trost, that is also being watched in Peterborough, Ontario, on the wrote for lifesitenews in 2015, entitled “Porn is fueling a premise that women who have had abortions are an identifi - new violent sexual ideology in our teens and it has to stop:” able group that can claim discrimination in the same manner “…does nobody think that when we have to teach teens not that the fi rst court cases after the introduction of the Can- adian Charter of Rights and Freedoms in 1982 succeeded “ ... men who look at porn feel ashamed in bringing court cases against Holocaust deniers. Problems to be involved in projects such as pro-life be- with the litigation aside, a court case is very different than cause of this activity; it makes it nearly im- private individuals insisting on self-censorship of those who possible to empathize with those we need to sincerely believe and produce scientifi c evidence that abor- empathize with…Pornography is anti-cul- tion is the willful homicide of a human being. ture. It saps one’s desire to do good.” As Jonathon Van Maren stated during his banquet ad- —Jonathon Van Maren dress at the 2017 SPLA Convention, “Human beings have human rights. Humans have human rights when life begins. Science tells us when life begins.” The scientist, Dr. Jerome to hurt each other through violent sex acts that we may have Lejeune, accepted by the Saskatchewan Court of Queen’s done something terribly wrong? I feel pity for those who Bench as an expert witness during a trial on the beginning have reduced sex to “consent.” Humanity once knew that Jonathon Van Maren is the communications director Can- of human life in Regina in 1983, explains the beginning of we could transcend mere consent. Consent, yes. But also adian Centre for Bio-ethical Reform. that life this way: the life of each individual human being dignity. Love. Compassion. When we revisit those timeless “begins at the instant that all the necessary and suffi cient values, then we will start to recognize our new ideology of information is combined in order to defi ne the new being. sex for the crude and insidious imposter that it is.” That is right from the beginning.” And when “we revisit those times values” of dignity, love, and compassion, we will likewise see that the mere “consent” for abortion is a similar failure and injustice, pre- tending we have life and death authority over this life that is never ours to decide. The answer and antidote to such violence, Van Maren said at the pro-life conference in Moose Jaw, is a return to the model of Christ’s self-sacrifi ce: “Pornography is con- veying an ideology that is literally demonic – that reverse of the self-sacrifi ce model of Christ for his Church.” Healing and true love begin when men imitate the sacrifi ce of Christ. Women deserve no less. At the banquet the previous night, he explained that he felt compelled to work full time in the pro-life movement after his fi rst conversation about abortion, in which a young mother asked, “Why didn’t anybody tell me before. My baby paid for that with her life.” Since then he has seen repeatedly how it is that “those girls are just waiting for someone to support them and change their minds.”

Choose Life News June 2017 Page 7 SPLA and supporters took to Regina’s streets during the annual prov- incial March for Life held May 11.

Artwork of students from St. Agnes Grade 7 class and Vanier Collegiate Institute Grade 10 students graced the walls at the provincial convention in Moose Jaw.

Choose Life News June 2017 Page 8 Ruth Shaw and National Campus Life Newtwork.

Big Blue Wave. Brad Trost speaks to a reporter on the Hill.

Crowd photos by Neil MacCarthy.

RIGHTS National March: This is About Life By Anna Nienhius equivocally a separate, living human being. On May 11, thousands of anti-abortion- It is dependent on its mother, yes, as is a ists gather in Ottawa for the annual March newborn or toddler. Also like a newborn or for Life. Thousands more do the same at lo- toddler, the pre-born child has its own DNA cal marches around the country. Canada is and can even be operated on separately from known around the world for having a high the mother. standard of human rights, yet this march In the blur of plummeting birth rates and remains necessary year after year as more newfound sexual freedom that came with than 100,000 babies continue to be aborted widely available birth control, we as women annually. somehow came to believe that we were the As we approach our 150th birthday this masters of conception. Not one of us would summer, we shouldn’t be resting on the ever again have a child against her will; laurels of a renowned human rights record. we would decide whether life lived or died Instead, we should be engaged in serious re- within us. This belief led us to fi ght tooth fl ection and self-examination. How can we and nail any suggestion that pregnancy do better? might just be something we couldn’t always The number one way in which we can do control, and we’ve managed to convince better is in relation to our most vulnerable. a lot of women to cling to that control re- Viable pre-born babies continue to be dis- gardless of the consequences. By doing so, carded by the tens of thousands every year. we’ve also allowed men to step back from Politicians are scared of the topic – Liber- responsibility, to expect control, and to turn als because they could lose their jobs if they a blind eye to the consequences. talk about it, Conservatives because they’re The rights to life, liberty and security of told they may not get the job if they talk too the person were matters of life and death to much about it. our forefathers. They founded our nation In our attempt to maintain our inter- on these values because these values mean national reputation as tolerant, progressive, something. We cannot be casual about these and accommodating, we have ended up terms or their implications. Human rights with special interest rights trumping human trump individual rights. The right to life, the rights. We are trying so hard to keep every- primary human right, is violated every mo- thing free that we are clamping down on ment that abortion remains legal in Canada. freedom of speech. “Reproductive rights” We need to stand up and say this is not about have somehow trumped the right to life, bodily autonomy or fi ghting patriarchy, this and anyone who claims that human rights is about life. So women, men and children should trump women’s rights had better from all ages and stages of life, all back- stop reading online comment sections and grounds, all with their own stories, beliefs, lock their doors. and reasons for being there, will march. It is only a matter of time, however, be- They march for, and stand for, the right to fore everyone has to admit that the emper- life for all members of the human family. or has no clothes. Science has never been clearer regarding the intricate humanity of Anna Nienhius is the research and policy life in the womb. The pre-born child is un- coordinator for WeNeedaLAW.ca.

Choose Life News June 2017 Page 9 EDUCATION Catholicism seems to trouble Minister Eggen more than kids exposed to pornography By John Carpay nudity. Eggen apparently wants Alberta teachers to have www.jccf.ca “resources” like “These kinky sex toys are guaranteed to Alberta’s Education Minister David Eggen claims to be spice up your bedroom this Valentine’s Day.” This GSA “deeply concerned” about a pro-life presentation made in a website had links to introduce children to the “Zebra” sex- ual alphabet: ‘A’ is for Auto-fellatio, ‘F’ is for Felching, Catholic school in Red Deer, which mentioned both abor- ‘U’ is for Urophilia, ‘Y’ is for Yellow and Brown Showers. tion and the Holocaust. Felching is so revolting (and unhealthy) that no decent web- Yet Eggen does not seem to be deeply troubled by the site or other publication could even describe this practice; sexually graphic material that was provided to K-12 chil- google the term at your own risk. dren on his government-funded Alberta GSA Network web- The public links to these materials were removed from site, developed by the Institute for Sexual Minority Studies the government’s GSA website when Alberta mother and and Services (ISMSS) under the direction of his friend Kris former teacher Theresa Ng blew the whistle on her blog, Wells. Informed Albertans. As Ng explains it: “It is true that sex- Wells is the professional activist and propagandist who ually graphic content is available on the internet and kids heads the ISMSS. Wells’ thoughtful academic scholarship could fi nd it anyway. However, using schools to intention- includes tweeting a cartoon comparing Christians to Nazis, ally direct and connect children to community organizations and routinely denouncing Albertans as “homophobic” if that peddle sexually graphic content is not safe or appropri- they dare question progressive sexual orthodoxy. Under ate. It is dangerous, reckless and wrong.” the supervision of Wells, the taxpayer-funded GSA web- Ng has been viciously and publicly attacked on Twitter, site provided children with links to “Super practical sex Facebook and elsewhere, yet our courageous Anti-Bully- positions everyone can try at home” and “Eight things they ing Crusader David Eggen has not bothered to denounce teach you at blow job school.” A supporter speaks during the March for Life held in Brit- the bullying, name-calling and hate that has been directed Eggen is not concerned about Wells supervising a web- ish Columbia on May 11. against Ng. site for children which linked to “Fruit Loop” and graphic In spite of Wells knowingly making grossly inappropri- ate materials available to children, Eggen has kept Wells in charge of this GSA website. Schools across Alberta con- tinue to register with the Alberta GSA Network, and Eggen still allows ISMSS to do “Fyrefl y in Schools” presentations to children. Instead of fi ring Wells from his position of authority and trust, Eggen has joined the predictable chorus of social justice warriors like Cristina Stasia, who claimed that the pro-life presentation in a Catholic school was “medically in- accurate.” Stasia teaches “gender studies” at the University of Alberta and has a Ph.D. in English. Her website lists no medical qualifi cations. Apart from assuming that her own philosophical beliefs are absolute Truth and beyond debate, Stasia provides no examples of the “incorrect” information that she publicly decries. What Eggen and Stasia are expressing is naked hostility to the Catholic teaching that human life is as valuable before birth as it is after birth. One does not need to be Catholic to know that the Catholic Church has long taught, rightly or wrongly, that abortion is a grave evil, constituting the delib- erate killing of a human being. One can agree or disagree with Catholic teaching, but let’s not pretend that this is newsworthy. Yet Alberta’s Education Minister denounces as “hateful propaganda” the Catholic Church’s opposition to what it considers to be different examples of large-scale killing. Does Eggen not understand that the very purpose of constitutional protection for Catholic schools in Alberta is to allow them to be actually Catholic? Recent calls for an investigation should be heeded. Why do Kris Wells and his ISMSS, which offered children les- sons in BDSM, oral sex and felching, still enjoy the full confi dence of David Eggen? Will Eggen remove Wells from his current position of infl uence over the education of children in Alberta? And why is Eggen “deeply concerned” about Catholic schools teaching what is consistent with Catholic philosophy, while having spent our tax dollars on a website that exposed children to pornography? Calgary lawyer John Carpay is president of the Justice Centre for Constitutional Freedoms.

Denae Pellerin, left, and Kathrina Dixon from University of Saskatchewan Students For Life explain “The necessity of all the avenues of the pro-life movement.”

Choose Life News June 2017 Page 10 WE NEED A LAW STAND UP Whatcott Brings Truth to Intern Project Garners Almost Campus – All By Himself By Tom Schuck 1800 Signatures: Schouten For 15 years I have been the legal advisor to Bill What- cott. I admire his courage, and really appreciate his joyful- Here is a testimony ness… his Joi de vive and unfailing belief in truth and God. provided by one of the interns: His mind quickly recognizes the irrationality of injustice and steps into action with little consideration of the conse- “I was door-knocking in Saskatoon and quences. He sees wrong. He acts. One of the objects of his scorn has been the hypocrisy of By Mike Schouten ran into an East Indian woman getting in her car to go to work. She said she was go- our university elites who ought to be bastions of free speech ing to the hospital and that she is a regis- and liberty, but instead have morphed from clear thinking places of reason and learning to safe places where students tered practical nurse. are protected from rational views that could hurt their feel- “I asked if she wanted to sign the petition ings. Some universities can now only issue “trigger warn- and she said yes. ings” when he approaches their campus. They could have “She agreed with the cause because she just as easily issued soothers on registration day as added The 2017 Saskatchewan Pro-Life Convention was a great sees every day in her work that minors who security for their students. opportunity to update folks on the progress of the Parental want to make decisions like this (abortion) Stories of the intolerance of alternative views on cam- Consent campaign. don’t understand fully what they are doing puses today and what to do about them have frequently ap- Admittedly, there is always a temptation to become dis- and rarely think of the consequences. peared on news channels and editorials. But for Whatcott, couraged. The parental consent campaign is into its third “She said that at that age, they need their the solution was simple. He would show up, pass out fl iers, year (yes, it was a cold day in 2014 when we launched this parents to guide them.” get arrested, plead not guilty, get acquitted and then return effort on the steps of the Legislature), and Canada as a coun- – Sam to the campus. try is nearing a half-century of legal abortion resulting in the Whatcott had three cases that he has won against the Uni- loss of nearly 4 million little boys and girls. versity of Regina after appealing one of them, before the As we experienced through the fellowship and wide var- university fi nally threw in the towel and allowed Whatcott iety of presenters, a convention is a great place to encourage to not only come onto campus, but rented him a table from each other and spark a renewed energy into persevering in which he taught universal Christian truths on abortion and this struggle for human rights. gay sex. Grassroots activity has been the strength of the parental At the University of Calgary, students previously had consent campaign! Check out some of these statistics of been prohibited and then disciplined for holding and show- what we’ve accomplished together! ing pictures of aborted babies on campus. At this Univer- sity Whatcott was arrested twice, and won both cases, one of which the University appealed and lost again. It would be an exaggeration to say that all is now good on the above University Campuses. However, it is marvelous to see what one person can contribute to free speech and religious freedom all by himself. Thanks to Whatcott, the cannot be achieved if my consent is unnecessary during sig- Christian message on sexuality can now be talked about on nifi cant times in the lives of these kids. It is my hope and two University campuses. prayer that you will see that a parental consent for abortion Like all universities these days, they promote their own law is necessary, not in spite of how it may impact foster version of a theology of the body in their Gender Studies It was also good to update everyone on the successful children, but because of how foster children are impacted Program that is contrary to Christian morality except in the summer 2016 intern project. We had six young people dedi- without it.” dreams of those led astray. cate six weeks to gathering petitions in Regina, Saskatoon, All the conference attendees were then given a simple There are several affi liated religious colleges on the cam- Prince Albert, and many other towns. In total the interns had action item – place a phone call to the Premier and Minister pus of University of Regina. I often wonder what it is that 2596 conversations that resulted in 1791 signatures. That is of Health. Whatcott teaches that the religious colleges do not? Do they In conclusion, I would like to encourage all those reading a whopping 70% conversion rate! They just walked up to support abortion and same sex activities, or do they not? this to not give up. Perhaps you’ve been part of the pro-life people, or knocked on their door and 70% said yes to sign- Why would a university hire lawyers several times to keep movement for decades. Maybe you have just joined. Wheth- ing almost immediately. Clearly a parental consent law has Whatcott off campus because of his views, and then allow support from a majority of the people! er old or young or somewhere between it’s easy for any of us to get discouraged. affi liate colleges that share, or ought to share, the same zeal Please don’t be. that Whatcott has for the Good News? Political change requires a long view. Some of us will be Instead of Good News, universities give fake news to stu- involved in sowing seeds. Others in watering a fertilizing dents…fake news supported by our newspapers, television the plants. But we won’t all be around to witness the har- and Hollywood. Instead of bread, students are given stones vest. to fi ll their heads. And yet, your contributions are incredibly valuable – For now, we should just rejoice and thank God for giving no, actually they are absolutely necessary if we are to ever us one person who can turn irrational University policies on achieve political victories for our pre-born neighbours. their head.

WeNeedALaw intern “Joseph,” engaging in one of almost 2600 conversations in the summer of 2016.

Here is a testimony provided by one of the interns: “I was door-knocking in Saskatoon and ran into an East Indian woman getting in her car to go to work. She said she was going to the hospital and that she is a registered practical nurse. I asked if she wanted to sign the petition and she said yes. She agreed with the cause because she sees every day in her work that minors who want to make decisions like this (abortion) don’t understand fully what they are doing and rarely think of the consequences. She said that at that age, they need their parents to guide them.” – Sam

I was also able to share some information from a recent meeting we had with the Human Services caucus commit- tee. Of note was a presentation made to this committee by a foster parent with more than 20 years of experience. This parent was able to articulate how foster children come from a place of neglect, abuse, and lack of good counsel which makes it all the more necessary that their guardians are in- volved in reproductive health decisions. She concluded her remarks by saying, “As a biological, adoptive and foster mother, my responsibility to safeguard the kids in my care

Choose Life News June 2017 Page 11 BOOK REVIEW EDUCATION Life’s Work: A Moral Argument Red Deer Prolife for Choice by Dr. Willie Parker Targeted by By Clinton Wilcox, Life Training Institute doctor if he doesn’t even know this basic biological fact. Of Life’s Work: A Moral Argument for Choice by Dr. Willie course, he dismisses the idea that “life begins at conception” Education Minister Parker is a new book defending abortion rights by an Afri- as a “deeply held religious belief” and doesn’t even attempt to interact with the scientifi c arguments pro-life people give and Media can-American doctor who is a self-proclaimed “Christian” By Angela Shaw (the reason for the quotes around Christian will become evi- for that view. He then appeals to Justice Blackmun’s ruling dent below). For all the lip service Parker says about ration- in Roe v. Wade, though, of course, Blackmun’s ruling was Growing up in a conservative Christian home, I have al- ality and wanting to approach the issue rationally, I’ve rare- not scientifi c in nature -- it was philosophical (and bad phil- ways held the belief that all human life is valuable but it ly read a more irrational defense of abortion rights. Doctor osophy, at that). I bet Parker would not accept as an argu- wasn’t until I was 16 that I began acting on this belief. Parker is, having grown up a poor black kid with all the ment for young-earth creationism that “scientists, philoso- When I was in grade 8, I learned that abortion ended the struggles that brings with it, adamant about protecting the phers, and theologians all disagree on the age of the earth, life of a preborn child in his or her mother’s womb and I rights of women by ensuring that they have the “right to so neither should we take any particular stance on what the wrote a paper on how awful it is. When I was 16, I began abortion.” Unfortunately, what Parker doesn’t understand is age of the earth is.” But this is exactly the kind of reason- volunteering with Red Deer and Area Prolife and from there that by dehumanizing the unborn, he is doing exactly what ing Blackmun used in Roe, and Parker apparently fi nds it I worked with We Need a Law, Association for Reformed white people used to do to black slaves, dehumanizing them quite convincing. Parker also repeats the myth that abor- Political Action, and the Canadian Centre for Bioethical Re- so that they can justify killing them because they’re in the form. I am a current board member for Red Deer and Area tion was illegal in common law to protect the life and safety way of what bigger and stronger people want. Arguments Prolife and I am their education presenter. of women. This is a false narrative (though Parker doesn’t from Science I go into any school in the Central Alberta area that will seem very interested in refuting false narratives if they agree Let’s now talk about Parker’s pseudo-scientifi c claims. have us and talk to kids about what abortion is and how it with his). As Joseph Dellapenna showed in his book Dispel- Parker doesn’t believe the fetus is equal to a baby or a child affects our society, fetal development, circumstances sur- because it can’t survive outside the uterus since it can’t ling the Myths of Abortion History, abortion was illegal in rounding a crisis pregnancy, and resources that we can use breathe, nor can it form anything like thoughts. Of course, common law to protect the life of the fetus, not to protect the to help people who have been hurt by or who are faced with he never justifi es why these things are necessary to be equal health of the mother. A stark difference is that Dellapenna abortion. to us older people; he just assumes it. The only reason the has provided many, many sources to support his claims, and One of the main schools that I have been going to for the fetus can’t breathe or form thoughts is because it is too Parker doesn’t offer a single one to support his. two years is a catholic school in Red Deer. As part of their young to do so. And of course, the fetus does breathe, it just ARGUMENTS FROM SCRIPTURE religion class, grade 10 students are required to learn about breathes via the umbilical cord, not through its nose. It is the sanctity of life and I have been the one to teach them. still taking in oxygen. Parker tries to put himself forth as Parker reinterprets Martin Luther King, Jr.’s sermon I’ve I have learned that most kids don’t agree with the catholic an authority on when life begins, but as an astronomer is not Been to the Mountaintop and his discussion of the Good an authority on evolution, nor is a biologist an authority on Samaritan. This is not unique to Parker; abortion-choice view that all life is sacred, even though they go to the cath- what the atmosphere of Mars is composed of, Parker is not philosopher Judith Jarvis Thomson also abused the Good olic school, and they certainly don’t want to sit through a an authority on whether or not embryos are human beings Samaritan tale to justify her stance on abortion rights. Par- mandatory class about someone else’s opinion. just because he has scientifi c training -- embryologists are, ker sees himself as the “good Samaritan” in performing That is why through one student’s actions, the education and they consistently agree, without signifi cant controversy, abortions on women he thinks are in need of them. In chap- minister heard my presentation. that human life begins at fertilization. Parker’s a pretty lousy ter seven, Parker attempts to make a more detailed Biblical When Education Minister David Eggen heard about my case for supporting abortion rights. He argues that the Bible presentation, that showed a minute video talking about how the Holocaust and abortion are both mass genocides that does not contain the word “abortion” in it. Of course, this have dehumanized a portion of human beings, he was very is just the old argument from silence fallacy. The Bible not quick to drop a bomb in the media. As the media usually expressly condemning it does not mean the Bible condones does, they focused on one tiny part of the presentation in- it. What we do have is one of the earliest Christian docu- ments, The Didache, expressly forbidding both abortion and infanticide, so to claim that Christianity is consistent with support for abortion is historically and theologically This attack by Minister Eggen has very confused. The Bible also says “you shall not murder” (Ex. clearly shown how desperately the NDP 20:13, Deut. 5:17), that child sacrifi ce had never even en- wants to get rid of the Christian world view tered God’s mind to command (Jer. 19:5), and that Jesus and this is not the only assault. had high regard for children (Matt. 18:6, Matt. 19:14). That God would support abortion to make our lives easier is a concept that is foreign to Scripture. PARKER IS NOT A CHRISTIAN stead of the whole. They took the video that was shown out IN ANY MEANINGFUL SENSE of proportion, and as a result Red Deer Prolife has suffered Parker simply worships a god of his own creation. being slandered in the media by Miss Cristina Stasia of the Throughout the book, he uses phrases such as “the god I AIM foundation (Accessing Information not Myths) and we worship”, or “the god I believe in”. This is likely because he have been suspended from teaching the students at this cath- Clinton Wilcox doesn’t believe there is any right interpretation of Scripture olic high school. (p. 127) and that there is no such thing as absolute morality Even though this has happened, it will not stop our efforts to reach the next generation about the truth of abortion. This attack by Minister Eggen has very clearly shown HUMAN RIGHTS how desperately the NDP wants to get rid of the Christian world view and this is not the only assault. I fi nd it very dis- turbing the timing of Minister Eggen’s media bomb about Doctors Speak Out Against Wynne’s Liberals a simple prolife presentation. I learned that it was to cover On April 10th, Concerned Ontario Doctors and Doc- believe what their conscience dictates, but fi ght equally hard up the fact that Mr. Eggen, along with Dr. Kristopher Wells tors Ontario held a joint press conference at Queen’s Park to protect people from having the beliefs of others imposed of the University of Alberta, were exposing students from to speak out against the serious human rights violations of upon them.” Ontario stands alone in denying physicians kindergarten to grade 12 to sexually graphic material that is Bills 84 and 87. These Bills imposed by Wynne’s Liberal protection of conscience rights. not suitable for adults let alone children on a school website. government are unconscionable and unjustly violate 6 Sec- “None of us ever envisioned whether we took the Hippo- tions of the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms and This is just one example of how the NDP government cratic Oath 40 years ago or 4 years ago, that we would one of Alberta is trying to change the education system. A few 8 Articles the United Nations Universal Declaration of Hu- day be legislated to cooperate in the death of our patients.” man Rights. other ways they are trying is, to get rid of home-schoolers The Charter of Rights and Freedoms must not apply to and wholesome Christian education by removing all gov- “Once Bill 87 passes, the CPSO will publish all patient most Canadians. It must apply to all Canadians. complaints publicly on their website and will have the abil- ernment funding and taking away the rights of parents to Learn more in the video below. Please share this video know what their kids are learning in schools. They are re- ity to both temporarily and permanently revoke a phys- and help us share what is happening to Ontario’s health- ician’s license before a committee hearing ever occurs and writing the entire Alberta curriculum without revealing who care...to your healthcare. before any evidence is ever presented.” is contributing to it. As a resident of Alberta, I was very UPDATE: A sad time for Ontario- fi rst on April 11, Even the worst of offenders are presumed innocent until disappointed with the election of an NDP government in 2017, Wynne’s Liberal government voted down the Bill 84 proven guilty in the court of law. Apparently that does not my province and after these attacks on our education system amendment to protect doctors conscience rights; NDP had apply to Ontario’s physicians who will lose their presump- that hit very close to home, I believe now is the time to act. tion of innocence. abstained from the vote. Then on May 9, 2017: ALL On- We are talking about the next generation here. If we are For Bill 84, there is nothing that protects a physician’s tario Liberal and NDP MPPs voted to pass Bill 84 --strip- teaching kids that you don’t need to have accountability to conscience rights in regards to medical assistance in dying ping Ontario doctors of their fundamental Human Right of the people who love you the most and that is it okay to watch (MAID). Those that disobey will be reprimanded by the conscience. ALL PC MPPs voted against. Ontario has be- pornography, which dehumanizes and brutalizes women for CPSO and lose their medical license. There is no reason to come the fi rst jurisdiction in the democratic world to strip enjoyment and kill the most innocent members of the hu- pit patient access against doctors’ conscience rights. Other anyone of their conscience rights. A basic human right man family, I am afraid of what our future is going to look Canadian provinces have very effectively ensured the pres- protected under both the Canadian Charter of Rights and like when these children become our leaders. We have been ervation of both with a self-referral co-ordinated care mod- Freedoms and the United Nations Universal Declaration of given an opportunity to make a difference. el. It strikes the perfect balance of rights and freedoms as Human Rights. Public committee hearings on Bill 87 end If Christians and prolifers don’t act now, there will be no envisioned by our Prime Minister, Justin Trudeau, “My idea on May 10th. going back and we must not be surprised at the decay if we of freedom is that we should protect the rights of people to www.carenotcuts.ca are sitting idle.

Choose Life News June 2017 Page 12 FROM UKRAINE WITH LOVE Love, Hope, and an Endless Will to Live: A Pro-Life Message from a Ukrainian Medic By Yana Zinkevych and Alisa Kotyk valued it. When they give you a report stating that now you Medical volunteer Yana Zinkevych, aged 21, saved over are a person with special needs, this is your call to action, to 200 lives on the frontline in Donbas but nearly lost hers in believe in yourself. It might be elusive and intangible for a a car crash. Despite having traumas said to be incompatible medical explanation, but you do have it within yourself to with life, she survived, suffering intense spinal, rib, and break free of your circle of limitations! I am on a training internal injuries. For two months, Ukrainian and Israeli program, and fully understand that the reason I want to walk doctors fought for her life and managed to piece together again is for the sake of my daughter. My therapy is not easy. her spine. It was then when Zinkevych discovered she was It means learning to walk but also to strengthen my spine, pregnant. Doctors told her she would have no chances of and for it to obey my brain. carrying out the baby, but despite all odds she gave birth to Perhaps only quadriplegics will understand this a daughter. statement. It is diffi cult, but I have already broken through The young woman was 19 years old and was planning to at least one stereotype. What is most important is a desire to enter the Medical Faculty of Lviv National University, but live fully. It is your hope and desire and need to live again the outbreak of the war in Donbas in spring 2014 changed as you had before the accident: go see a movie, visit with her plans. Instead, Zinkevych left for the front and founded friends, cook and bake; take the dog for a walk, read books, the Hospitaliery medical volunteer battalion, which was enjoy the beauty and aroma of fl owers, listen to the song of soon taken under the auspices of the Volunteer Ukrainian the birds; to love and allow yourself to be loved; even the Corps, a part of the Right Sector Organization. Although she occasional argument. To dream, to make mistakes, and to had no medical qualifi cations, she learned how to perform have expectations! In my case, my life is synonymous with operations and give commands to a battalion of men. war, war in its most fundamental meaning. I am in complete Fate can take your health, rob you of the use of your feet, charge of a battalion and I am in control of everything that confi ne you to a wheelchair. Never, however, will God ever happens in it. take away from you that which is most precious- your Soul, There is also the war with myself: suffering, doubts, which He himself presented to you as a gift for all eternity, grieving. It is enough to poison even one’s physical health breathing it into you when you came into existence. Your and bring about depression. I know that there are many, soul is a part of you, your Wings. God loves you, and His many people who are praying for me, and this is a source love for you is greater than your love for yourself! of strength. I am also aware that people see me and they “It is not possible to survive after such an accident;” “No While undergoing treatment after a tragic accident, med- sincerely believe that my spirit is strong. Being an example one survives such trauma… ,” “No one survives…” ical volunteer Yana Zinkevych found out she was preg- to them is another source of my strength. Yana Zinkevych has heard all the variations on this nant, and doctors warned her it could kill her. I do not belong exclusively to myself. I am the fi rst one theme, and in several languages of the world. She has to go ahead and am the example for others to follow. I must heard this assessment while in several different stages of also live up to the noble faith people have entrusted in me, of her doctors) and was informed that her trauma was so those who have found themselves in similar predicaments. severe that they doubted she could ever have children. She In my life there is my daughter, my parents, my friends, my was being treated in Israel at this time, and so she visited the brothers and sisters in arms. All these individuals help me Wailing Wall, despondent that perhaps it was true, and she live a life of complete surrender, as though I were swimming would never have the experience of being a mother. carefree in a river. Recently I did some baking, I was part of For two months, Ukrainian and Israeli It was two months later, slowly and surely regaining her doctors fought for her life and managed a video that will make its premiere soon, I adopted a pet dog strength following the accident, even if by the tiniest of from the animal shelter, and I am preparing to enter medical steps forward, she learns that she is pregnant. All the doctors to piece together her spine. It was then school (a dream of mine, for which I must soon take the uniformly announced that this pregnancy would kill her, and when Zinkevych discovered she was profi ciency examination). even if they were wrong about that, she would forfeit her pregnant. Doctors told her she would have I am also learning how to drive again, and the independence “golden opportunity” to regain her health, and would not be no chances of carrying out the baby, that this will bring. I am an instructor with the Hospitalier able to carry the baby to term. courses and teach young students how to be defenders and Yana found herself once again as she had been so many times in the past when at the front lines. At war she risked her own life to save the wounded, even when under enemy fi re. She did not concern herself then with death or anything consciousness: fully conscious, semi-conscious, with a high other than saving someone’s life. Now she focused on “Yana found herself once again as she had fever. She heard it on the telephone, through her tears and the life of her pre-born child. Once again she stood at the been so many times in the past when at the those of others, and through her relentless, chronic pain… precipice, the choice between Life or Death. front lines. At war she risked her own life to The dark day when all this began was December 5, Yana makes her decision. Not only would aborting her 2015. A description of the accident read: “The Commander pre-born baby be a sin, but also a mortal sin against God save the wounded, even when under enemy of the Hospitaliery Battalion, the fi ghter-volunteer, Yana who had given her the chance to fulfi ll her dreams of hearing fi re. She did not concern herself then with Zinkevych, was involved in a serious car accident while herself called “Mother.” She resolves to carry her pregnancy death or anything other than saving some- returning back to base. She broke her spine, L1 and L2 to term, or in her case, being in a wheelchair, “to drive” her one’s life. Now she focused on the life of her separated 1.5 cm, suffered a punctured chest, broken pregnancy to term, and give birth to her very own child… pre-born child.” collarbone, broken ribs, trauma to her heart and lungs and Consequently, Yana had to stop any treatment that other internal organs, severe blood loss, and she went into might harm her child. From that moment on her constant a coma. companion would be a steady pain, unrelenting even By morning of the next day, all of Ukraine heard the momentarily. Such was a compromise she willingly made news and the prognosis, and were shocked by pictures of with a nearly unbearable, intense physical suffering. patriots, so sometimes I am going from the kindergartens to the crash site, where the vehicle rolled several times, within What followed was her wedding… But then his the front line to supervise the rotations. which was to be found this young woman, someone who has unfaithfulness… and divorce. Paper can take anything, but I have taken upon myself many responsibilities: the become a symbol of courage and kindness at the front lines there isn’t much to say about Yana’s marriage and happiness battalion and military affairs. Believe me when I say that no of this war. An angel of military fi eld medicine, strong and save for an ellipsis. one among the combat commanders or among the ordinary fearless, she has personally rescued from battlefi eld over What she has to show for all this suffering is found in the soldiers calls me by that terrible word, “invalid.” No one in 200 soldiers. She also established and heads the medical person of her God-given little girl. my close circle of friends feels sorry for me; I don’t need Bohdanka, meaning “God-given.” Our “Zefi rka,” who battalion, Hospitaliery, and was a medical offi cer fi rst for pity and tears! I don’t feel sorry for myself. You will never has such a strong desire to live that her will has an impact Right Sector, and then, since the time she has been in a be given a heavier cross than the one you have the strength on everyone around her, renewing a spontaneous and wheelchair, she has been medical offi cer for the Ukrainian to bear. Live your life! Be strong, and do not be afraid to ask Volunteer Army. Most recently, she herself has been in need continuous wonder, faith, hope, and love in one’s heart. for help. Very often someone is already nearby who is ready of medical care and our prayers. Yana felt God’s providence, marveling at the site of her little and willing to help you. Anyone who knows Yana personally, and anyone who has child. The baby is at an age now where she grasps tightly I have died once… I have witnessed others dying… and ever heard about this petite but already legendary woman, with her fi ngers to her mother’s hand! rescued them before they perished… I have encountered are all holding their breath and hoping for the best, anxiously All the pessimistic conclusions of medical personnel death many times over the past three and a half years of hoping for a miracle. At her most desperate moment, it was notwithstanding, Yana is alive and more vibrant than war, and have even become accustomed to these passing only God who could breathe new life into her. Into our Yana. ever! She competently conducts the affairs of the medical It’s as if the Creator himself, with a tender hand, rescued battalion. encounters. The road ahead of me is diffi cult, and some her from death. He himself has led her to the most talented Since the time of its formation, the Hospitaliery have places are off limits to me and my wheelchair. However, surgeons, who seemingly took all these pieces of bones and saved the lives of nearly two thousand fi ve hundred we will fi nish this war, after which I will continue to fi ght spine and put them back together within her. God heard her Ukrainian soldiers. That’s 2,500 human beings. as a professional doctor for health and recovery, for the prayers, those of her friends, and those of all the fi ghters she Yana Zinkevych is a living legend. She is an example of rights and abilities of all those people who have been made has rescued, not to mention the prayers of Ukrainians from what it means to say “No!” to all those who claim there is cripples by this war and its fate. People with disabilities around the world. He has opened her eyes to a renewed life, no hope. do not have limited horizons, but rather they have specifi c and a new identity that includes life in a wheelchair. Here is her reply: needs. They are people who see the world from a different The life of Yana is a test of strength and daily challenges. “The fact that you are in a wheelchair only means that point of view!” One of her fi rst experiences of insurmountable struggles was you see the world from a different perspective! When I Translated from Ukrainian by Fr. Jeffrey D. Stephaniuk when she fi rst regained consciousness (with the assistance could walk I was never amazed that I could, or ever really This article was fi rst printed at: www.euromaidanpress.com

Choose Life News June 2017 Page 13 Euthanasia & Assisted Suicide Presentation Host an Interactive & WHEN Effective Presentation Give the Gift of Books in Your Community (CDs or DVDs) IS MY To book a presentation contact: membership Mary Deutscher [email protected] One More Soul Canada Diocese of Saskatoon parishes can request Encouraging God’s plan for sex, chastity, love, marriage and children DUE? funds for presentation expenses Resources for the family about the Blessings of Children, Check your the Value of Chastity, and the Harms of Contraception. address label The Porn Myth by Matt Fradd ...... $20.00 for your Culture Wars by Jonathon Van Maren? ...... $20.00 renewal date Bequests Catholic Manhood Today by R. Alleman ...... $15.00 Saskatchewan Pro-Life If yours is due, Supporters and members Father’s Day Pack: The Porn Myth, send $25 to: ZKRPD\ZLVKWRPDNHDVSHFLÀF Culture Wars, Catholic Manhood: ...... $49.00 bequest in their wills. Saskatchewan Contraception: Why Not by J. Smith ...... DVD $20.00 Pro-Life The following clause is suggested: Association Green Sex by Jason Evert ...... CD $5.00 Box 27093 I DIRECT MY TRUSTEE TO Pure Manhood/Pure Womanhood Booklets ...... Only $4.00 each Avonhurst RPO GIVE TO THE Saskatchewan Pro-Life Does the Birth Control Pill Cause Abortion? ...... $5.00 REGINA SK Association by Randy Alcorn S4R 8R8 The Sum of ______Dollars Theology of the Body for Beginners ...... $20.00 by Christopher West Enquiries concerning bequests or Contraception of Grief by Theresa Burke, Ph.D...... $15.00 other gifts should be directed to: Saskatchewan Pro-Life Association CHASTITY PROJECT Library Pack...... $$ depending on need Box 27093, Avonhurst RPO For Parishes Regina SK S4R 8R8 Phone: 352-3480 Fax: 352-3481 Shipping Rates 15% E-mail: [email protected] www.omsoul.ca Phone1-866-966-7685

Next Retreat: Oct 13-15, 2017 Rachel’s Saskatchewan Vineyard Elaine 306-480-8911 e-mail: [email protected]

MEMBERSHIP/DONATION FORM Sask. Pro-Life Association Box 27093 Avonhurst RPO Regina SK S4R 8R8 1-888-842-7752 CHALLENGE Please make cheque payable to: “Sask. Pro-Life Association” To the Knights of Columbus and Enclosed: Membership $25 Donation $______the Catholic Women’s League First Name 7KH63/$ZLOODZDUGD&HUWL¿FDWHRI3DUWLFLSDWLRQWRWKH Last .RI&&RXQFLOVDQGWKH&:/&RXQFLOVWKDWKDYHWKH Name JUHDWHVWSHUFHQWDJHRI63/$SDLGXSPHPEHUV Street/Box ,I\RXUHQHZRUSXUFKDVHDPHPEHUVKLSSOHDVHPDNH Number VXUH\RXDGG\RXU.RI&&RXQFLO QXPEHURQO\QR RUQDPHV RU\RXU&:/&RXQFLO QDPHRQO\ 7KLVZD\ \RXU&RXQFLOZLOOJHWFUHGLWIRUWKHPHPEHUVKLS Town/ City Thank you so much for your Province participation. Postal Code Phone

IF PAYING BY CREDIT CARD, Sask. Pro Life Association CREDIT CARD NUMBER: Box 27093; Avonhurst RPO Regina SK S4R 8R8

Expiry E9(5<PHPEHUVKLSFRXQWV

Choose Life News June 2017 Page 14 BUSINESS DIRECTORY & RESOURCES T anks all the businesses and organizations who show their support by advertising with us. Please support our advertisers

Burns Hanley Church Supplies Ltd. 2727-13th Ave Regina SK S4T 1N4

Books, Candles, Religious Articles/Gifts, Wedding Invitations

Toll Free: 1-800-667-3606 Ed & Carol Anne Phone: (306) 522-6636 Landgraf Fax: (306) 522-6637 Dr. William L. Rieger BILLESBERGER DMD Prof. Corp. LAW FIRM #202 - 2595 East Quance Street Regina SK S4V 2Y8 nfpsask.ca (306) 584-8167 BARRISTER & SOLICITOR For information on the Billings Ovulation Method General Dentistry including Orthodontics (not by a specialist) John J. Billesberger, B.A., LL.B. Natural Family Planning Association Saskatchewan Inc. 1017 – 3rd Street Box 3807 Humboldt SK S0K 2A0 Estevan SK S4A 0R4 JEROME SIDLOSKI SALES CONSULTANT 6 YEAR MEMBER Sales Marketing Guild Phone 306-637-3710

Fax 306-637-3719 STEPHEN J. SCHUCK BARBER MOTORS BRANCH OFFICES: 1 GOVERNMENT RD N, WEYBURN SK S4H 0N8 LAMPMAN 215 Main Street 306-487-2880 Wills, Estate Planning and BUS: 306-848-3628 CELL: 306-861-6562 John J. Billesberger attends every Friday Estate Administration FAX: 306-842-4730 TOLL FREE: 1-800-922-6531 EMAIL: [email protected] barbermotors.com MIDALE 233 Main Street 306-458-2277 319 Souris Avenue John J. Billesberger attends every Thursday Weyburn, SK Email: [email protected] 306-842-4654 www.nswb.com Stephaniuk Law Offi ce Lewans & Ford BARRISTERS & SOLICITORS ORLOWSKI LAW OFFICE BARRISTER & SOLICITOR 1215 - 5TH STREET ESTEVAN, SASKATCHEWAN S4A 0Z5 Kim M. Ford B.A., LLB. STEPHEN J. ORLOWSKI B.ED., LL.B. PHONE: 306-634-3353 FAX: 306-634-7714 Phone: 306-642-3542 Fax: 306-642-5777 %UDQFK2I¿FHV P.O. Box 759 Assiniboia, Saskatchewan S0H 0B0 REDVERS&DUOVRQ2I¿FH%XLOGLQJ email: [email protected] (YHU\7KXUVGD\ ARCOLA:$UFROD$JHQFLHV%XLOGLQJ

MICHEAL P. HUDEC, LL.B. MARUSIA A. KOBRYNSKY, B.A. LL.B. 953-1614 Serving PA & Area Since 1995 www.paso ware.ca sales@paso ware.ca 4050A 2nd Ave W HUDEC LAW OFFICE Next to Wholesale BARRISTERS & SOLICITORS  Providing your Total Network Solution www.anglicansforlife.org  Authorized Service Center  Premier Computer Equipment PHONE: 1-412-749-0455 2nd Floor, 1201 - 103rd Street BUS. (306) 446-2555  SaskTel Wireless, Internet, maxTV™ NORTH BATTLEFORD, SASK. FAX (306) 446-2556 CANADA S9A 1K7 RES. (306) 445-6750 E-MAIL: [email protected]

Priests For Life Canada Prêtres Pro-Vie Canada

Working to support, inform and empower Catholic clergy to build a culture of life

priestsforlifecanada.com

Choose Life News June 2017 Page 15 POLICY

Undefi ned ‘Autonomy’ The Saskatchewan Rush Lacrosse Club are excited to announce a new promotion and the Convoluted geared towards our youngest fans, on this TD Children’s Hospital Game Week. By Fr. Jeffrey MAIDD. Stephaniuk canMaze be lead to believe all agree with their decision. Once the MAID act has occurred On behalf of the Rush and TD, every baby born in Saskatoon on a Health Regions within Saskatchewan Rush Game Day for the reminder of the 2017 season will receive a have begun to make known the number of and knowledge of the death and its manner becomes known to a previously uninformed free toddler jersey as a way for our organization to usher in new a doctor-assisted suicides in the province. generation of lacrosse fans. After the fi rst such loss in one region, a worker, a conscientious objector feels a sense of hurt and guilt.” health professional writes about the impact Families will receive the jerseys via their hospital. of this experience, describing Medical Aid As a mature individual who is not content in Dying (MAID) as “problematic … from to be a bystander in the living of one’s life, “A jersey for every child born on game day is such a fun and the perspective of a health care provider and as a writer expressing the modern-day special way to welcome Saskatchewan babies into the world,” says who faces dilemmas.” Canadian equivalent of the dilemma faced Brynn Boback-Lane, President and CEO of the Children’s Hospital The Euthanasia Prevention Coalition by those who went through the Nuremberg Foundation of Saskatchewan. “We’re grateful to the Saskatchewan writes in their “Caring not Killing” educa- Trials, whose defence was that ‘I was just Rush and TD for helping us usher in the next generation of little tional brochure, that “We oppose euthanasia following orders,” this medical professional sports fans, all while raising awareness as to how everyone can and assisted suicide” because they “destroy shows what it means not to be passive in the help support the youngest citizens of our province with critically the trust relationship between medical pro- face of the cruelty of this government policy needed medical equipment.” fessionals and patients.” As indicated in the on the men and women in healthcare: following fi rst-person account, it can now “In the course of my work as a healthcare “Our organization as a whole is always striving to create unique be further stated that they also destroy the provider, I have frequently heard patients experiences for our amazing fans. This jersey initiative will serve as relationship of trust among medical profes- express that they support MAID and would a fantastic platform to welcome in a new generation of Rush fans, sionals. while also creating a keepsake item for families to hold onto as their An insider’s perspective from the front choose if for themselves under certain cir- cumstances. I can tell the patient that I am child grows up, creating life-long fans of the Rush” lines of care has led to the following suc- – Andrea Haughian, Vice President, Marketing & Partnerships cinct description of what is being experi- a conscientious objector and will withdraw enced: “When the decision is made by the from caring for the patient – or can I? Am I patient and the process begins, there are still obliged to carry out my work as long as specifi c guidelines that must be followed. I am not the one that causes the death? Can Two physicians must independently ascer- I truly keep my objections to myself and tain that the patient has a ‘grievous and ir- pretend the decision the patient has made remediable condition.’ The illness, disease, does not affect me? These are questions that or disability is an advanced state, is irrevers- will have to be answered as the practice of ible, and the state of decline causes someone enduring physical or psychological suffering that is intolerable to them. The suffering cannot be relieved under conditions that are “It is my hope that the pa- acceptable to the patient. Natural death has tient who is suffering would get become reasonably foreseeable. Two in- good palliative care and spirit- dependent persons must witness the written ual ministry so that MAID does request for MAID. There is to be a ten-day not become the only option.” cooling off period after the request is made. –Healthcare insider In some circumstances, the cooling off per- iod can be shortened.” The fi rst threat to the atmosphere of good will and professionalism among staff is the insinuation that one might have a hidden MAID becomes more widespread. Even if agenda: “When someone has decided to I am allowed to withdraw from caring for die at a time and place of their own choos- the patient without losing my job, I am still ing with medical assistance, there is a team aware that MAID will happen and there is designated to facilitate it. Health care pro- nothing I can do about it and this in not okay viders have a directive to be respectful of with me. I do not anticipate a reversal of this a person’s autonomy. They are never to new legislation. I believe that the numbers I MAKE THIS SOLEMN PLEDGE: impose their own beliefs or morals on the of people opting for MAID will increase. At patient.” present, I still continue to struggle.” The writer explains in detail the honest In an insight that exposes the limits of and sincerely held moral conviction about ‘privacy’ and ‘rights’, the reader is re- the essence of the problem, and the frustra- As we approach minded that our lives are very inter-connect- tion of being reduced to a bureaucratic func- &DQDGD·VWKELUWKGD\ tionary: “Herein lies a dilemma for a health ed: “The patient might believe that their de- care provider who is a conscientious ob- cision affects only them and their doctor but WKLV\HDU,ZLOOVWDQGXS jector. The patient’s right to autonomy pre- this is not quite accurate. There are many IRUKXPDQOLIHIURPWKH vents a health care provider from discuss- healthcare providers and workers who are ing the issue with the patient and prevents involved with a patient’s care – nurses, so- WLPHRIFRQFHSWLRQ the health care worker from providing their cial workers, pharmacists, therapists, para- XQWLOQDWXUDOGHDWK point of view even if this is solicited by the medics, housekeeping staff, and others. The patient. Further, because the patient has the action of one person affects many.” right to privacy and confi dentiality, the pa- The Euthanasia Prevention Coalition pro- tient’s decision is shared only on a “need to vides clearly defi ned principles on palliative $WDWLPHZKHQZH·OOEH know” basis. Therefore, care is provided by care. Unlike the undefi ned and ubiquitous IRFXVLQJRQWKHDFKLHYHPHQWV all members of the health care team without word, ‘autonomy,’ the International Asso- RIRXUQDWLRQDERUWLRQFDVWVDVKDGRZRYHU many of the care providers being aware of ciation for Hospice and Palliative Care has a the patient’s decision to have MAID.” specifi c defi nition of palliative care, includ- WKDWFHOHEUDWLRQ In an application to the context of health- ing: “Relief from pain and other distressing care of the expression, “silence means ap- symptoms; Neither hastens nor postpones proval”, the following statement articulates ,WGLPLQLVKHV&DQDGD·VDELOLW\WRERDVWRI death; Integrates the psychological and the miscommunication patients can receive spiritual aspects of patient care; Uses a team JUHDWQHVVEHFDXVHLWGLPLQLVKHVRXUFLWL]HQU\ when the system soundproofs open dia- logue, and the effect of a death on the core of approach to address the needs of patients DWWKHUDWHRISUHERUQFKLOGUHQDQQXDOO\ one’s humanity: “In the practice of ensuring and their families.” ZKRVHOLYHVDUHHQGHGE\DERUWLRQ autonomy and privacy, there is an absence This defi nition coincidentally resonates of discussion with care providers. This lack with the concluding thoughts of this Sas- of discussion, where the patient could hear katchewan medical professional: “It is my other points of view or objections to MAID, hope that the patient who is suffering would can be regarded by the patient as unanimous get good palliative care and spiritual min- IStandonGuard.ca support of their decision. Because no one istry so that MAID does not become the is allowed to voice an objection the patient only option.”

Choose Life News June 2017 Page 16