FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Re: Court of Appeal file C39998
AA - and - BB and CC
Laws Should Recognize Family Realities, says Families Advocate
TORONTO, September 25, 2006 – Family Service Association of Toronto today asserted its position that the laws pertaining to families should reflect the realities of today's families and serve the best interest of children and parents. Legal representatives for FSA Toronto presented arguments before the Court of Appeal in support of the appellant, AA. The appellant in the case is requesting to be legally recognized as her child's mother, along with the child's biological mother, who is the appellant's same-sex partner, and the child's biological father.
"Family Service Association of Toronto supports families as a cornerstone of a strong society. Over our 92 years, FSA Toronto has seen the traditional construct of families evolve to take on a variety of nurturing, loving forms. As a result, our definition of "family" is two or more people, whether living together or apart, related by blood, marriage, adoption or a commitment to care for one another," says Laurel Rothman, FSA Toronto's director of social reform. "The composition of families has changed and our laws should reflect that. In this case, that means legally recognizing the three parents who nurture and care for this child."
Bradley Berg and Courtney Harris of Blake, Cassels & Graydon LLP are counsel for FSA Toronto and serve the agency on a pro bono basis.
Media contact : Jo-Anne Liburd, 416-595-9230 ext.
225; jo-anneli@fsatoronto.com
Manager of Marketing and Communications
About Family Service Association of Toronto
Family Service Association of Toronto (www.fsatoronto.com) is a non-profit, social service agency offering a wide range of multilingual counselling and support programs that reflect the needs of Toronto's diverse communities. For 91 years, FSA has sought to end family violence, support inclusion of marginalized citizens, help children and families through difficult life transitions, support seniors and build strong, healthy, inclusive communities. FSA also works with government and other community organizations to advocate for social change to enhance the quality of life for all members of our community. FSA is a United Way member agency.
Editors: Please note the "Service" in Family Service Association of Toronto is singular.
