FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Ottawa, ON — February 25, 2026 — Les Femmes Michif Otipemisiwak (LFMO) is urging the federal government to immediately pass legislation criminalizing forced and coerced sterilization. Bill S-228, which passed the Senate last fall, is scheduled for its first substantive debate in the House of Commons this Thursday. LFMO stresses that clear Criminal Code provisions are necessary to ensure accountability, prevent future harm, and affirm that reproductive violence against Indigenous women will not be tolerated in Canada.
Forced and coerced sterilization is not only a shameful chapter in Canada’s history, it is a profound violation that continues to impact Indigenous families today. This practice has disproportionately targeted Indigenous women, girls, and gender-diverse people, including Two-Spirit and Transgender community members. The harm is deep and intergenerational.
“Criminalizing forced and coerced sterilization must be an urgent federal priority,” said LFMO President Melanie Omeniho. “Métis women and families have carried the trauma of reproductive violence for generations. Passing this legislation makes it clear that our bodies are not subject to coercion or state control. Survivors must lead the path forward, and governments must act with urgency and accountability.”
Legislation is a critical step, but it is only the start. Real, government-funded changes are needed across justice, health, social services, and education. This includes apologies, fair compensation, proper training, Indigenous-led healthcare accountability, and education on bodily autonomy and reproductive rights. LFMO stands with survivors and their families in their pursuit of justice and healing. All next steps must be survivor-led and guided by First Nations, Métis, and Inuit communities.
About Les Femmes Michif Otipemisiwak (LFMO)
Les Femmes Michif Otipemisiwak is the national voice of Métis women, advocating for their rights, safety, well-being, and leadership across the Métis Motherland. LFMO ensures that Métis women, girls, and 2SLGBTQQIA+ people are represented in decision-making spaces and that their voices guide the policies and initiatives that affect their lives.