To mark the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women, the BC Humanist Association (BCHA) has argued that the federal government must end its financial and structural support for organizations propagating anti-equality and misogynistic views that undermine the development and mental health of young Canadians.
Its brief, "Combatting antifeminist ideology through secular policy," was filed in response to the House of Commons Standing Committee on the Status of Women's ongoing study into antifeminist ideology. The BCHA warns that this ideology often cloaks itself in rhetoric about "parental rights" or "biological essentialism" and presents as an attack on bodily autonomy and gender diversity across the country.
"Violence against women and girls takes many forms, and ideological violence that dehumanizes a young person's identity is devastating to mental health," said BCHA Executive Director Ian Bushfield. "A secular approach is a commitment to neutrality and human rights, which is the only reliable bulwark against the forces of intolerance currently harming our children."
The BCHA urges the Standing Committee to adopt its recommendations to create a truly secular, equitable and safe environment for the development of all young Canadians.
The committee is accepting briefs until December 12, 2025 at 11:59 PM EST.