Call for Contributions: Advocates, Activists, Architects of Moral Space?

Canada and the United States historically have shared a unique and close relationship, one which has been described as one of the “closest and most extensive” bilateral relationships in the world. Our countries share the world’s longest undefended border and have deeply integrated economies, cultural and social ties, and a long history of collaboration. Recently, however, relations between our governments have become strained or blatantly hostile, and families, friendships, and professional relationships have been tested by political and ideological divisions.     

In light of these unprecedented developments, we announce a forthcoming special issue of the Canadian Journal of Bioethics dedicated to examining the role of bioethicists in response to the current crisis – a crisis marked by a lack of confidence in science and medicine, increasing skepticism surrounding the significance of health care ethics, and challenges to patient care, research, and public health policies due to reductions in U.S. government funding for research, health care, and social support programs, as well as hostility to diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility (DEIA) initiatives.

In these challenging times, the necessity for robust ethical guidance and international collaboration has never been more evident. Bioethicists in Canada and the U.S. have a long history of working on shared projects, studying and publishing together, forming partnerships and friendships that have enhanced our capacity to perform our work well. We thus invite bioethicists from Canada and the U.S. to contribute brief, even provocative, essays to this special issue which can share lessons learned, prompt fresh ideas, catalyse conversations, and forge alliances between colleagues and community members on both sides of the border.  

Bioethicists hold various conceptions of their role. Although it is frequently stated that the discipline was forged in the crucible of the social justice movements of the 1960s and 70s, whether, or how, we ought to be advocates, activists, or “architects of moral space” (to use Margaret Urban Walker’s memorable phrase) is by no means self-evident. This issue is an opportunity to explore this underdeveloped aspect of our roles.   

The Canadian Journal of Bioethics is bilingual, online, and open access, thereby providing an exceptional opportunity to reach professional and lay audiences rapidly and without financial barriers.

Submission Guidelines:

• We are looking for timely perspectives and manuscripts should be between 1000 and 2000 words.
• Please include an abstract of no more than 250 words.
• All submissions will be editor-reviewed.
• The editorial board will accept anonymously authored manuscripts.
• The deadline for submissions is July 1, 2025.

We look forward to your contributions and to fostering a collaborative effort between Canadian and

American bioethicists. For more information and submission details, please visit: Information For Authors | Canadian Journal of Bioethics / Revue canadienne de bioéthique Should you have any questions or require further information, please contact: Ann Heesters (ann.heesters@uhn.ca) or Jason T. Eberl (jason.eberl@slu.edu).