Ahead of the second reading debate in the House of Lords on Friday 18 July concerning Lord Falconer's 'Assisted Dying' Bill, these are just some of the ways in which you can make your support for a culture in which we deem no lives not worth living. How have you acted - or will you act - to make heard the case for keeping the current law?
Write to Peers
This is crucial. This is your chance to have someone with a vote on Lord Falconer's Bill hear why such a law would hurt you. Members of the House of Lords do not have constituents and for hundreds of newer peers, this will be their first opportunity to vote on the issue, so it is up to you to engage them.
- Click here to request the names of three randomly selected Peers to write to, and make your voice heard - today.
Contact your MP
The bill is being debated in the House of Lords, but your elected representatives should know how you feel about this issue, so contact them or arrange a meeting.
- Ask them to sign EDM 86, a Parliamentary motion arguing against the adoption of Lord Falconer's bill and denouncing rising numbers of assisted suicide deaths under Washington state's Oregon-inspired law. Visit our website for key points concerning both the specifics of the Falconer Bill, and the broader arguments.
- Ask them to engage colleagues in the House of Lords and in their party's leadership on the issue, seeking their support for the current legal position.
Challenge the PM & stand with disabled people
This bill is set to be subject to a free vote, but many senior politicians have already publicly declared their opposition to legal change. Parliamentarians have accepted party leaders' overall vision in electing them - these same leaders must not be afraid to offer leadership in opposing the 'Assisted Dying Bill'.
- Sign Not Dead Yet's petition seeking action from the Prime Minister to back up his declared opposition to assisted suicide
- Join disabled people outside Parliament on 18 July to lobby peers.
Engage with the media
Write to national and local newspapers, comment on online news items, phone in to radio shows, contact news editors offering to share your story more fully and speak out on social media. In an area where it all too often seems that whoever shouts loudest wins, be brave, be respectful and be honest. Do you have relevant personal or professional experiences that you could share?
- If you've known times where legalised assisted suicide would have robbed you or a loved one, speak out.
- If you've known patients who've been glad to get past fear and anguish, speak out.
- If you've seen firsthand the reality of assisted suicide and euthanasia abroad, speak out.
It can be hard, but it will be valuable and your voice will be appreciated by so many people who feel swept up and disenfranchised.
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