Take Action

Social Justice

SOCIAL JUSTICE

 

As members of the Catholic Women’s League, we are called to live our faith through action. Guided by Catholic Social Teaching and CWL resolutions, our Social Justice Committee monitors key issues affecting human dignity, family life, the vulnerable, and the common good. This section provides updates on issues we are actively tracking, along with practical ways to pray, learn, advocate, and serve. Together, we seek to act justly, love tenderly, and walk humbly with God.

 

      Bill C9 UPDATE: (Combating Hate Crime) & Potential Restrictions on Religious Freedom. 

This bill is now before the Senate.   

ACTION:  Please read Cardinal Leo’s March 27 letter to the Canadian Senators, then write to Alberta’s four senators today. Urge them to strengthen Bill C-9 by ensuring it protects vulnerable communities and safeguards the fundamental freedoms Canadians hold dear.

Send your letters (no postage required) to The Honourable:

  • Patti Laboucane-Benson
  • Paula Simons
  • Scott Tannas
  • Kristopher Wells

Senate of Canada
Ottawa, ON    K1A 0A4

_________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Bill C-218 – An Act to amend the
Criminal Code  re MAID for Mental Illness Alone. 

This private members bill was proposed June 20, 2025, and is awaiting second reading.  See the February 24, 2026 press release from the Canadian Council of
Bishops (CCCB) for more information.  ACTION: Contact justice.cwl.stpeters@gmail.com to register for a Lunch & Letter writing session on Thursday, April 16 from 11-2 pm. 
This letter writing guide is also available. 

__________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

          Alberta Disability Income Assistance Changes

 Alberta Disability Income Assistance Changes

The Catholic Women’s League of Canada (CWL) is committed to upholding the dignity of every person and showing particular care for those who are poor, vulnerable, or living with disabilities. In that spirit, this summary outlines recent and upcoming changes to disability income assistance in Alberta, and why CWL members are paying close attention.

What is Changing

  • Alberta is restructuring disability income supports into two main programs:
    • AISH (Assured Income for the Severely Handicapped), for individuals with permanent disabilities that severely limit their ability to earn a living.
    • ADAP (Alberta Disability Assistance Program), for individuals with disabilities who may have some capacity to work but face ongoing limitations.
  • Current recipients are being transitioned into this new structure beginning July 1, 2026, with reassessments and re-classification taking place over an 18 month period.

          In addition to the AISH or ADAP provincial programs, the federal government introduced the Canada Disability Benefit in 2025, which provides up to $200 per month to eligible Canadians. Alberta counts this benefit as income for those receiving AISH (and ADAP), resulting in a corresponding reduction in provincial payments.

Government’s Stated Rationale

  • The Alberta government has stated that its disability income system provides the highest overall level of support in Canada when compared with other provinces.
  • The restructuring is intended to better reflect different levels of disability, encourage participation in work where possible, and support long-term sustainability.
  • Health benefits such as prescription drugs, dental, and vision care are expected to continue under both AISH and ADAP.

CWL Concerns and Reflections

  • Transitions and reassessments may create uncertainty and stress for people with disabilities and their families, especially those who rely on caregivers or aging parents.
  • Administrative and medical requirements may place added pressure on families and health-care providers during reassessment periods.
  • Treating the federal disability benefit as income may reduce the practical impact of that support for those with the greatest needs.

A Pastoral Perspective

Guided by Catholic social teaching, the CWL approaches this issue in a spirit of compassion, solidarity, and respect for human dignity. CWL members recognize that policies affect real people and families, often in complex and deeply personal ways.

Members are encouraged to:

  • Pray for those living with disabilities, their caregivers, and all who support them;
  • Listen attentively to the experiences of those affected;
  • Engage respectfully with elected representatives to share concerns grounded in lived experience and care for the vulnerable.

This summary is provided for information and reflection. It does not represent an official advocacy position unless otherwise approved by the appropriate CWL council.