Far too often, the most vulnerable in our society experience negative attitudes towards their human dignity. This is often expressed by words or actions, when people with disabilities or chronic illness - or the frail elderly - are treated like a burden on society.

Many people who live in nursing homes are rarely visited or included in the lives of family; they are often marginalized or abandoned. The lack of human connection leads to loneliness, and feelings that one is 'better off dead.'

To effectively oppose euthanasia and assisted suicide, we need to stir within our culture a new attitude of being with - and protecting - the most vulnerable.

We need to uphold the dignity of the vulnerable in our society, and not abandon them. We need to care for people, and recognize how selfish attitudes are part of a culture of death. We need to care for people, not kill them. We need to build a culture of care.

Contact: 1-877-439-3348 or epcc.ca.

Mission Fields Spring 2007