moved for leave to introduce Bill C-275, An Act to amend the Criminal Code (sexual assault material).
Mr. Speaker, I rise today to introduce Melanie's law, my first private member's bill, to bring justice for victims of sexual assault.
The inspiration for the bill unfortunately arises from a feeling of dread. When a resident of Red Deer, someone I consider a friend, reached out to tell me about a network of abusers in Canada who drug their intimate partners, sexually assault them, film the assaults and distribute the videos online, I was shocked, not only because I learned that this is happening but also because it happened to my friend, the constituent's wife, in a previous relationship.
Imagine the anguish a loving husband feels upon discovering that his wife, the most important person in his life, was victimized without her knowledge, a profound violation that leaves justice feeling painfully out of reach. At the same time, his heart breaks for the unimaginable pain she endured, her peace of mind and sense of safety stolen from her.
Hearing their story, I felt compelled to help bring justice for Melanie and to do whatever I can to help heal their hurt. Melanie's law would put victims' rights first. It would create a definition of sexual assault material in the Criminal Code and make it a criminal offence to create, distribute or possess such material. We have a duty to ensure that people who commit these horrific crimes face real consequences and that victims are never treated as secondary to their abusers.
I urge all members of the House to support Melanie's law and deliver justice for Melanie and for the many others who have suffered in silence.
(Motions deemed adopted, bill read the first time and printed)