MPP Fife calls for Lydia’s Law, warns survivors cannot be silenced again

WATERLOO — Ontario NDP MPP Catherine Fife is renewing her call for Lydia’s Law following the Sloka verdict, urging the government to act on long-overdue reforms to support and bring justice to survivors of sexual assault:

“What we saw in this case has shaken people’s confidence in the very system that is supposed to protect them,” said Fife. “Survivors are left asking what it will take to be believed and to see justice done.”

Lydia’s Law would strengthen accountability and transparency in how sexual assault cases are handled, including tracking delays and improving access to supports.

“This bill is about fixing the gaps we already know exist - delays, lack of transparency, and a system that leaves survivors navigating it on their own.

“Last year, this government used its majority to shut down debate on Lydia’s Law without warning. Survivors didn’t get their day in court, and then they lost their day in the legislature.

“On behalf of Lydia and all survivors, this government must not silence women again in this debate,” concluded Fife. “This is a choice: listen and act or keep looking the other way while survivors are failed. Our community deserves better.”

Quotes:

“The court system is like a slow-motion grinding down of the spirit that often forgets the human at the center of the file. Lydia’s Law is our only chance of relief. Survivors of sexual assault deserve to be heard and receive justice in a timely manner”

—Brittany (speaking on behalf of SLOKA Sexual Assault survivor, sister)

“Survivors deserve better than a system that requires exceptional resilience to be heard, that fails to treat them with respect, and that so often falls short of meaningful accountability. That is exactly why Lydia’s Law matters.”

—Sara Casselman, Executive Director of Sexual Assault Support Centre Waterloo Region

“Lydia’s Law is a much-needed step towards a justice system that works and closes the loophole that allows criminals to escape accountability. Men have a role to play. Sexual violence is not simply a women’s issue. It’s a massive problem that affects everyone and it means men have to stand up.”

—MPP Terence Kernaghan (London North Centre)