Henry Morgentaler

Canadian physician and abortion rights advocate

Henry Morgentaler

Henry Morgentaler (March 19, 1923 – May 29, 2013) was a Canadian physician and abortion rights advocate who played a pivotal role in the movement to legalize abortion in Canada. He was a prominent figure in the fight for women's reproductive rights and was instrumental in challenging the legal restrictions on abortion.

Early Life and Education

Henry Morgentaler was born in Łódź, Poland, to a Jewish family. During World War II, he survived the Holocaust, spending time in the Łódź Ghetto and later in the Auschwitz concentration camp. After the war, Morgentaler immigrated to Canada in 1950, where he pursued a career in medicine. He graduated from the Université de Montréal with a medical degree in 1953.

Medical Career

Morgentaler began his medical practice as a general practitioner in Montreal, Quebec. Over time, he became increasingly involved in the movement for abortion rights, motivated by his belief in women's right to choose and the need for safe, legal abortion services.

Advocacy for Abortion Rights

In the 1960s, Morgentaler began performing abortions in defiance of Canadian law, which at the time only allowed abortions to be performed in hospitals with the approval of a therapeutic abortion committee. He opened his first abortion clinic in Montreal in 1969, challenging the legal restrictions and advocating for the decriminalization of abortion.

Legal Challenges

Morgentaler's actions led to numerous legal battles. He was arrested several times and faced multiple trials. His most significant legal victory came in 1988, when the Supreme Court of Canada ruled in R v Morgentaler that the existing abortion law was unconstitutional, effectively decriminalizing abortion in Canada.

Impact and Legacy

Morgentaler's work had a profound impact on Canadian society and the legal landscape regarding abortion. He was a controversial figure, admired by many for his courage and dedication to women's rights, while also facing significant opposition from anti-abortion groups.

In recognition of his contributions, Morgentaler received several awards and honors, including the Order of Canada, although his appointment was met with controversy and legal challenges.

Personal Life

Morgentaler was married three times and had four children. He continued to advocate for reproductive rights throughout his life, even after retiring from active medical practice.

Death

Henry Morgentaler passed away on May 29, 2013, at the age of 90. His legacy continues to influence the ongoing debate over abortion rights in Canada and around the world.

Related Pages

• Abortion in Canada
• R v Morgentaler
• Reproductive rights
• Order of Canada