Abortion Decriminalization in Canada: Why Criminal Law Should Stay Out

Send us Fan Mail Interview with Dr. Martha Paynter, author of Lawless: Abortion Under Complete Decriminalization. In this episode of Choice Chat, host Tara speaks with Dr. Martha Paynter—nurse, researcher, and author of Lawless: Abortion Under Complete Decriminalization—about why keeping abortion out of the Criminal Code matters for evidence-based care and equitable access in Canada. They explain how access is shaped through health policy and service delivery, and why efforts to re-legislate abortion can create real barriers for patients and providers. Dr. Paynter also discusses how mifepristone has expanded access by enabling timely care closer to home, while gaps persist across regions and populations. They close with a call for cross-movement solidarity—reproductive justice, labour, affordability, disability and migrant justice, LGBTQ2S+ inclusion, and anti-violence work—because reproductive autonomy requires safety, economic security, and real access to care. If you’re looking for practical information about abortion or pregnancy options in Canada, these evidence-based resources may help. Where to buy the book Fernwood Publishing Columbia University Press  Indigo/Chapters Action Canada for Sexual Health & Rights – Access Line Confidential information, options counselling, and referrals anywhere in Canada, seven days a week, from 9 AM to 9 PM ET. Call: 1-888-642-2725  Text: 613-800-6757 Email: [email protected] Choice Connect – Shore Centre Helps you find your nearest abortion provider based on your needs.   National Abortion Federation (NAF) – National Abortion Hotline This is the largest national, hotline for abortion provider information and financial assistance.   Call: 1-877-257-0012   Abortion Care Canada – I Need Support Offers systems navigation, options counselling, and financial assistance. Email: [email protected]   Abortion Rights Coalition of Canada - ARCC ARCC is the only nationwide political pro-choice group devoted to ensuring abortion rights and access.  Wellness Within - Reproductive justice and criminalization, including information on accessing abortion while incarcerated or experiencing criminalization.  Sources Black women and the reproductive justice movement – Ms Magazine The Origins of the Reproductive Justice Movement – Start By Talking  Research & Advocacy  Canadian Civil Liberties Association (CCLA  Thanks for listening to Choice Chat, a Humanist Canada podcast about choice, dignity, and reproductive justice. We’re glad you’re here. Do you have a story to share? Do you want to suggest a topic? Email us at [email protected] or connect with us on social media. We look forward to hearing from you.  https://www.instagram.com/choicechatpod/?next=%2F https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61580799207960