Mr. Speaker, I am pleased to rise in recognition of the Canadian Association of Elizabeth Fry Societies as it celebrates National Elizabeth Fry Week.
Elizabeth Fry Societies work to enhance public awareness and education around the circumstances of women involved in the criminal justice system. They seek to break down the negative stereotypes that exist about women who are often victimized and criminalized.
The majority of these women are mothers. Most of them are the sole supporter of their family at the time of their incarceration. When mothers are sentenced to prison, they and their children are also sentenced to separation. Many women find this to be the most severe punishment.
I commend all of the Elizabeth Fry Societies for their most important work toward the development of and support for community based alternatives to women rather than costly incarceration.