FAQ
What is this campaign about?
This campaign is calling on the Government of Canada to issue the National Apology recommended by the Senate of Canada in its 2018 report, *The Shame Is Ours*. The report documented the coercive and discriminatory adoption practices that separated more than 350,000 mothers from their newborns between the 1940s and the 1990s.
Why is a National Apology needed?
The Senate found that these practices were systemic, widespread, and rooted in discrimination against unmarried mothers. Many were pressured, coerced, or forced into surrendering their babies. A National Apology acknowledges this harm, validates survivors’ experiences, and affirms that this should never have happened.
Did the Senate already recommend an apology?
Yes. In 2018, the Senate of Canada released *The Shame Is Ours*, which included a clear recommendation that the federal government issue a formal National Apology. That recommendation has not yet been acted on.
What happened with the federal petition?
The petition is now closed. It was read in the House of Commons on May 26, 2026, which triggered a 45‑day period for the government to issue a response. The petition helped bring national attention to this issue, but it is no longer an action item for individuals.
Can individuals sign the Open Letter?
No. The Open Letter is for organizations only. Individuals can support the campaign by contacting their Member of Parliament and by encouraging organizations they are connected to to sign on.
How can individuals help?
The most effective action is to contact your MP using the email template or phone script provided on the “What You Can Do” page. Individuals can also invite organizations to add their name to the Open Letter.
How can organizations sign on?
Organizations can sign on by emailing their name, province or territory, the name and role of the authorized signatory, a contact email, and an optional logo. Full instructions are available on the Sign‑On page.
Why are logos requested from organizations?
Logos help visually demonstrate the breadth and diversity of national support. Organizations that prefer not to send a logo will still be listed by name.
Is this campaign partisan?
No. This is a non‑partisan, human‑rights‑based campaign grounded in the Senate’s findings. The call for a National Apology is not tied to any political party.
Who is behind this campaign?
This campaign is led by survivors, advocates, and community members committed to ensuring that the Senate’s recommendation is acted upon. It is not affiliated with any political party or government body.
Where can I learn more?
You can read the Senate’s full report, *The Shame Is Ours*, and explore the resources provided throughout this website, including the Open Letter and the What You Can Do page.
Follow the campaign on Instagram: @canadiansforanationalapology