The BC Association of Social Workers adds its name to the growing list of organizations and individuals who want to see justice for all survivors of Woodlands School. That includes the five hundred individuals who have been exempted from the Settlement Agreement.

 

Because they were victimized prior to August 1, 1974 they are ineligible to sue the government under the Crown Proceedings Act. After all, the explanation goes, a line must be drawn somewhere.

 

But when that line cuts across aging, fragile people who have suffered unimaginable abuse while under the ‘care’ of the government, surely it is time for the government to step up and take responsibility, however long overdue. There should be no statute of limitations for such abuse.

 

We urge the government to demonstrate that ours is a compassionate and just society and that protection of those who are most vulnerable takes precedence over an arbitrary law. Such a show of humanity would be welcomed by all of us who recognize our mutual responsibility for one another and the need for government to right the wrongs inflicted under its watch.