A Custody & Access Alert!
Calling all Women Who Wish to be part of Provincial Custody & Access Discussions On Changes to the Divorce Act
2001 -- Provincial consultations on federal policy changes to child custody & access take place. Women & women's serving agencies must be heard!
Introduction by the members of the Ad Hoc Custody & Access Coalition
We are writing to alert you to this critical time and to call upon you to act!
We have an opportunity to make our voices heard provincially this year, perhaps even to participate in provincial consultations that will take place in every provinces. Whichever way we choose to act, we must get the word out on what women & children need to live safer lives.
One thing slated for this year is that individuals and groups will be asked to submit responses to a working document that the Justice minister is still working on. It is expected the working document will be released by end-March. After that, at least in BC, a few individuals will be invited to attend roundtable consultations at key centers in each province over the summer. Other provinces may choose other ways to conduct "consultations."
Our voices were raised loudly two years ago when federal consultations were held. They fell on unhearing ears [see background]. It is vital that this time around, we be heard. We must rally as many women and women-supporting groups as possible. Our tactics must be varied to be effective and to reach as many people as possible.
Our experience is that we are up against huge odds. Pressure is being applied in governmental and public spheres to adopt aspects of the Fathers' & Grandparents' Rights agendas. On the surface, some of these demands may sound innocuous. But our work, experience and consultations with women & children who use our services show us not only how current Divorce Act and related provincial policies put them at risk with their abusers, but that this risk will worsen and dangers increase if some of these draconian changes are made without our input.
Now is the time to act if we are to use our power to affect change.
We hope the enclosed information is helpful. Please join us. We will keep you updated as we hear developments. Let us know what you learn and hear too.
In anticipation of your responses and ideas for action,
Members of the Ad Hoc Custody & Access Coalition, Vancouver
Contact us at vcasaa@hotmail.com