Henry Morgentaler

HenryMorgentaler

Henry Morgentaler
Born	Henekh Morgentaler 19 March 1923 Łódź, Poland
Died	29 May 2013 (aged 90) Toronto, Ontario, Canada
Nationality	Canadian
Occupation	Physician, activist
Known for	Abortion rights in Canada
Children	4

Henry Morgentaler (born Henekh Morgentaler; 19 March 1923 – 29 May 2013) was a Canadian physician and pro-choice activist who played a pivotal role in the abortion rights movement in Canada. He was a prominent figure in the fight to decriminalize abortion in Canada and was instrumental in the landmark R v Morgentaler decision by the Supreme Court of Canada.

Early Life

Henry Morgentaler was born in Łódź, Poland, to a Jewish family. During World War II, he was imprisoned in the Auschwitz concentration camp and later transferred to the Dachau concentration camp. After the war, he emigrated to Canada in 1950.

Medical Career

Morgentaler graduated from the Université de Montréal with a medical degree in 1953. He initially practiced as a general practitioner in Montreal, Quebec. Over time, he became increasingly involved in the pro-choice movement, advocating for women's rights to access safe and legal abortions.

Activism and Legal Battles

In 1969, Morgentaler opened his first abortion clinic in Montreal, challenging the existing laws that restricted access to abortion. His actions led to multiple arrests and trials. The most significant legal battle was the R v Morgentaler case, which culminated in the 1988 decision by the Supreme Court of Canada that struck down the federal abortion law as unconstitutional.

Legacy

Henry Morgentaler's activism had a profound impact on reproductive rights in Canada. He continued to open clinics across the country, providing safe abortion services. His work earned him both praise and criticism, but he remained a steadfast advocate for women's rights until his death in 2013.

Personal Life

Morgentaler was married twice and had four children. He passed away on 29 May 2013 in Toronto, Ontario.

See Also

• Abortion in Canada
• R v Morgentaler
• Reproductive rights
• Supreme Court of Canada