Urgent Call for Change at Celebration for Slain Kelowna Mother

UPDATE: Hundreds gathered at the Kelowna Events Centre on Saturday to honor the life of Bailey McCourt, a 32-year-old mother tragically murdered earlier this year. The community’s outpouring of support underscores a strong push for legislative change to combat domestic violence, following McCourt’s brutal death on July 4, 2023.

McCourt was beaten to death in a parking lot by her estranged husband, James Plover, who has been charged with second-degree murder. Just hours before the incident, Plover had been convicted of assault and uttering threats in a domestic violence case but was released under court conditions. The circumstances surrounding McCourt’s death have ignited urgent calls for reform.

During the celebration, McCourt’s aunt, Debbie Henderson, expressed gratitude for the community’s support. “People I don’t even know came up and said, ‘Thank you for pushing for Bailey’s Law and change for domestic partner violence,’” she stated.

The proposed reforms, dubbed Bailey’s Law, include crucial measures such as bail reform, electronic monitoring for convicted domestic abusers awaiting sentencing, and mandatory criminal record checks for marriage licenses. “The fact that every five to six days, a woman is murdered by a domestic partner is atrocious,” Henderson said. “We are going to continue to push for change because it’s needed.”

Earlier this month, McCourt’s family launched a petition to the House of Commons for the “Intimate Partner Violence Prevention and Enforcement Act.” Sponsored by Liberal MP Will Greaves, the petition quickly garnered over 1,700 signatures, allowing Greaves to present it in Parliament.

Henderson emphasized the family’s commitment to ensuring McCourt’s death leads to meaningful change. “We’re leaning on one another and our community supports, and we’re so grateful for them,” she said, demonstrating the emotional toll this tragedy has taken.

As the community continues to rally around the cause, momentum is building for legislative reform that could protect future victims of domestic violence. The call for change is urgent and resonating, as advocates push for immediate action to prevent further tragedies. The family remains hopeful that Bailey’s legacy will lead to the necessary changes in the law.

Stay tuned for updates as this story develops and the community continues its fight for justice and reform.