Maybe it seems sort of morbid to write about an abortion rights crusader on a website about pregnancy and parenting, but the truth is that Morgentaler’s contributions to our society are remarkable and women are safer and healthier because of them.
Manitoba women owe a debt of gratitude to the late Henry Morgentaler, who opened the country’s very first abortion clinic outside of Quebec, here in Winnipeg, in 1983. The Free Press has a good history of his efforts in the article Abortion Rights Fighter Divided Nation, and Lindor Reynolds’ column Giving Women Freedom is Morgentaler’s Legacy describes the influence the doctor had on one local woman’s life and career. I caught an interview with Suzanne Newman on CBC radio, and it was very moving.
Women’s Health Clinic will hold a memorial service in honour of Morgentaler this Friday, June 7th.