News
Monday, March 8, 2010
Application for leave to intervene in Polygamy Reference finalized
West Coast LEAF has been granted leave to intervene at the British Columbia Supreme Court in the Reference on the constitutionality of section 293 of the Criminal Code - the "Polygamy Provision".
The practice of polygamy can limit women's choices and create serious vulnerability for young women and girls to sexual and other exploitation.
"We intend to argue that the polygamy provision of the Criminal Code is there to prevent the practice of polygamy where such practice is exploitative or abusive of women and children, and so should be interpreted to prohibit harmful conduct," asserts West Coast LEAF Legal Director Kasari Govender.
West Coast LEAF also continues to work with community partners to ensure that women and children who choose to leave the Bountiful community can access the services and support they need.
The trial is scheduled to take place from November 15, 2010 to January 31, 201
