DCAO Film Night Sept 28 2026
About this Event
On May 15, 2026, the Supreme Court of Canada made a landmark decision recognizing the tort of intimate partner violence in the case of Ahluwalia v. Ahluwalia, a development that will forever shape the legal landscape for survivors of family violence.
Join us for an evening of film, dialogue and legal reflection as we examine this pivotal moment in Canadian history.
The evening begins with a screening of the acclaimed 1984 film "The Burning Bed" starring Farrah Fawcett. Based on a true story, the award-winning film brought widespread attention to the realities of domestic violence and remains a powerful portrayal of abuse, coercive control, resilience and survival.
Following the screening, our panel of lawyers will explore the significance of the Supreme Court's decision arising from the case of Kuldeep Kaur Ahluwalia, featuring:
Deepa Mattoo
Former Executive Director of the Barbra Schlifer Commemorative Clinic and one of Canada’s leading advocates in gender-based violence law reform. A lawyer and intersectional feminist scholar-practitioner, she has appeared before the Supreme Court of Canada, advised on systemic legal reform, and trained thousands of professionals on trauma-informed and culturally responsive approaches to violence against women and gender-diverse people.
Anna Matas
A respected family lawyer, mediator and arbitrator, Anna Matas has extensive experience representing clients in complex family law matters. She is widely recognized for her contributions to the development of family law in Canada and for her leadership within the legal profession. She appeared before the Supreme Court of Canada on behalf of the intervenor, the Barbra Schlifer Commemorative Clinic, to make submission in the case of Ahluwalia v. Ahluwalia.
Leanne Townsend
An experienced family lawyer, mediator, divorce coach and professor, Leanne Townsend is known for her leadership, education and client-centred approach to resolving complex family disputes. She regularly writes and speaks on family law issues and is a strong advocate for modern, accessible approaches to family justice.
Moderator: Steve Benmor
Steve Benmor is a Certified Specialist in Family Law and one of Canada's leading divorce lawyers. A respected lawyer/mediator/arbitrator, he has extensive experience in complex family law matters and is widely recognized for his leadership within the legal profession and in community development. As moderator, he will guide an engaging discussion on the legal significance of the Supreme Court's decision and its broader impact on the future treatment of violence against women.
Our panelists will discuss the legal implications of the decision, its impact on family and civil law, and what it means for survivors, practitioners and the future of access to justice.
Whether you are a lawyer, mediator, mental health professional, coach, student, or an interested member of our community, this event offers a unique opportunity to engage with an important chapter in Canadian legal history through the power of film and thoughtful discussion.
Agenda
🕑: 06:00 PM - 07:00 PM
Reception
Info: Guests are invited to enjoy light refreshments and connect with colleagues before the program begins. This reception offers an opportunity to meet members of the legal and not-for-profit sectors while reflecting on the significance of the evening's topic and the evolving legal response to intimate partner violence.
🕑: 07:00 PM - 08:30 PM
Film
Info: Enjoy a screening of the acclaimed 1984 drama, The Burning Bed, starring Farrah Fawcett. Based on a true story, the film follows the experiences of a woman trapped in a violent marriage and was instrumental in bringing the realities of domestic violence into the public conversation. Its theme continues to resonate today as Canada's legal system further recognizes the lasting impact of intimate partner violence.
🕑: 08:30 PM - 10:00 PM
Discussion
Info: Following the film, join an engaging panel discussion examining the landmark Supreme Court of Canada decision in Ahluwalia v. Ahluwalia decision. The conversation will explore how Kuldeep Kaur Ahluwalia's case reshaped Canadian law through the recognition of the tort of intimate partner violence, the legal implications of the decision, and its impact on survivors, family law, and the broader justice system. Panelists will also discuss the role of coercive control, access to justice, and the path forward for legal professionals and advocates.
Where is it happening?
Event Location & Nearby Stays:
CAD 30.00
