BURLINGTON — The driving force behind Keira’s Law, a young girl named Keira herself, embodied the epitome of a cherished daughter to Jennifer Kagan-Viater — intelligent, compassionate, simultaneously gentle and strong, and capable of captivating anyone’s heart upon meeting.
Keira, along with all those impacted by intimate partner violence, was honored during a poignant event commemorating the successful passage of Keira’s Law.
Over 100 supporters, including politicians, representatives from women’s shelters, members of the Halton Regional Police (HRP), and friends, gathered on August 17 at Millcroft Park. The gathering offered a time for reflection on coercive control, domestic abuse, appreciation for those instrumental in passing the law, and remembrance of all victims.
Jennifer Kagan-Viater shared about Keira’s character, recalling that her daughter’s favorite time was free play. This was perhaps a respite from the distressing reality she faced under her father’s care. Keira was a soulful individual who could connect with people of all ages. She was driven to do right and, like her mother, had a passion for advocating against injustice.
Tragically, Keira’s life was cut short. On February 9, 2020, she went missing while spending the weekend with her father, Robin Brown. She was later found deceased alongside her father at the base of Rattlesnake Point Conservation Area in Milton.
Keira’s Law, both federally (Bill C-233) and provincially (Bill 102), was established to enhance the understanding of domestic violence and coercive control among judges and justices of the peace. This aims to safeguard children and women who may be at risk.
Philip Viater, Keira’s stepfather and Jennifer’s husband, praised Jennifer’s determination in getting the law passed. He expressed how Keira was an immense joy and shared her creative and inquisitive nature. He also noted that Keira’s Law was a powerful legacy to remember her by.
As a family law lawyer, Philip Viater witnessed the positive impact of Keira’s Law on the judicial system. He acknowledged the ongoing cultural shift in addressing domestic violence and emphasized the importance of continued conversations and education.
Keira’s Law was introduced in 2022 by Oakville North—Burlington Liberal MP Pam Damoff and Quebec MP Anju Dhillon. The law was passed by the Senate in April and received Royal Assent in the provincial legislature. Oakville North—Burlington MPP Effie Triantafilopoulos led its passage.
The event attendees recognized the courage of Jennifer Kagan-Viater in sharing her story and acknowledged the significance of opening hearts to enact change. They highlighted the importance of addressing coercive control and domestic violence for the well-being of women and girls.
In unity, participants embraced the legacy of Keira’s Law as a beacon of hope and a catalyst for transformative change.