Mary Ellen Douglas, the coalition’s national organizer, said the conference seeks to educate people about pro-life issues today.

And the conference also comes at a politically significant time.

“I think it’s extremely important because we’re in the middle of an election campaign. For Canadians, it’s extremely important that we obtain good men and women who will stand up for life in Parliament,” she said.

Douglas said lack of political will from all parties in the last 40 years has led to the absence of protection for unborn children.

Speakers will include Stephanie Gray of the Canadian Centre for Bio-ethical Reform in B.C., National Post columnist and Catholic priest Fr. Raymond de Souza, and Dr. Sheila Harding, associate dean of the University of Saskatchewan’s College of Medicine.

A political panel will also feature two Ontario MPs: Liberal MP Tom Wappel and Conservative MP Jeff Watson.

Douglas said there is a parallel between the anti-slavery and pro-life movements since both campaigns have faced similar types of opposition and share a tenacity in continuing their struggle despite obstacles along the way.

“Until we protect the most innocent, things just aren’t going to change,” Douglas said.

For more information, visit www.campaignlifecoalition.com .