Linda Gibbons, a staunch pro-life advocate, has been ordered to appear before a mental health court in Toronto for her peaceful protests outside an abortion clinic. Gibbons, known for her silent vigil in favor of the unborn, has repeatedly faced legal challenges due to her activities breaching Ontario’s ‘bubble zone’ laws protecting abortion facilities.
Despite the criticism and legal repercussion, the 75-year-old has remained silent throughout the proceedings, symbolizing the plight of the unborn. Her quiet demeanor in court led to the recent decision by Ontario Court Judge Kate Doorly to remand her case to a mental health court, while a ‘friend of the court’ was appointed to assist her legally.
Gibbons’s treatment in court has triggered outrage among supporters, including Campaign Life Coalition’s (CLC) Pete Baklinski. Critics argue it unjustly compares her actions to that of criminals involved in gangs and implies her pro-life advocacy is a symptom of mental instability.
Over the years, Gibbon’s peaceful pro-life activism has led to multiple arrests and approximately 11 years in jail. Her recent appearance in a mental health court follows her deliberate missing of a previous court date, choosing instead to continue her peaceful protest outside an abortion facility.