Although somewhat unrelated to the general purpose of this website, I feel compelled to express my gratitude to my country for awarding Dr. Henry Morgentaler the Order of Canada.

In 2003, Heather Mallick of the Globe and Mail asked, “Why doesn’t this man have the Order of Canada?” and now, five years later, Dr. Morgentaler is being recognized for his lifetime dedication to the establishment and preservation of women’s rights in Canada.

Mallick’s article is a good overview of his life’s work that continues to this day. Canadian abortion-rights history would be virtually non-existant without the risk, courage and determination of Dr. Morgentaler. In fact, I think the global history of abortion could have potentially ended at abortion-as-crime were it not for Dr. Morgentaler’s tenacious fight. A brief timeline of Canada’s history is here.

Humanity owes a great deal more to this man than a national medal could ever convey. Congratulations, Dr. Morgentaler. And thank you, Canada.

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