Planned Parenthood Association of Edmonton

Planned Parenthood Association of Edmonton

Planned Parenthood Association of Edmonton [PPAE] is a charitable organization that provides sexual health education and counseling services in Edmonton and surrounding communities. Established in 1964, when it was still illegal in Canada to offer information on sexual health or reproductive options, the PPAE advocated for the legalization of the dissemination of contraceptive information by medical professionals and public organizations, and they provided discreet counseling and educational services to Edmontonians. In 1969, when the federal government passed an omnibus bill that legalized birth control, abortion and homosexuality -- famously taking the government out of the bedrooms of Canadians -- they also removed the legal constraints on sexual education and counseling. Nevertheless, the PPAE remained a contentious organization in the city. Their mandate to provide information on all aspects of reproductive issues -- including parenting, adoption and abortion -- and birth control created considerable controversy among anti-abortion activists and religious institutions. However, the PPAE continued to advocate for the reproductive choice of citizens, believing that 'individuals have the right to information and access to resources and services on sexuality and reproductive health without experiencing fear, shame, or exploitation.'

City of Edmonton Archives