disability

In the early 1990s, Sue Rodriguez challenged Canada’s Criminal Code prohibition on assisted dying. The 42-year-old, who was living with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), fought for the right to end her life at a time of her choosing with the aid of a physician. She believed the ban infringed on her right to liberty and security of the person as well as her right not to be subjected to cruel and unusual punishment, and her equality rights.

In 2007, 19-year-old Ashley Smith died in federal custody at the Grand Valley Institution for Women in Kitchener, Ontario.