At a time when women’s rights are under attack in several parts of the world (some uncomfortably close to us here in Canada), it’s never been more important to stand with and stand up for women—all women. We know women are strong and resilient, but we also know there are far too many of them who experience violence.
We know what it’s like to be marginalized.
At Women’s Resources, we serve all women, full stop. Our programs and services are for anyone in our community for whom being a woman is part of their gender identity. We are not here to draw lines or make judgements. We are here to help.
We know what it’s like to be marginalized, so naturally we want to be here for anyone who’s been hurt, whether psychologically, emotionally or physically, by gender-based violence. Under the federal government’s definition, that term refers to violence aimed at someone because of their gender, gender expression, gender identity or perceived gender. Such violence is a violation of human rights that must concern us all.
Indeed, according to the Canadian government, 59 per cent of trans and gender-diverse people experience violent victimization and are more likely to suffer injuries when attacked. At Women’s Resources, we are all too familiar with the prevalence of violence against straight, cisgender women, which makes it even more devastating to learn from RCMP statistics that trans and gender-diverse people are nearly twice as likely as cisgender women to experience intimate partner violence in their lifetimes.
We offer support to male survivors of abuse.
Because violence against women—all women—is so rampant in our society, our services extend even further. During the family court process, we offer support to male survivors of abuse. Boys entering our shelter along with their mothers are supported and kept safe. Our outreach in the community involves informing and educating boys and men about healthy relationships and other aspects of gender equality and violence reduction.
Women—all women—who experience violence deserve care and support to build lives free of fear and abuse. We are here to help, standing proudly by their side.
If you need help, please don’t wait, contact our 24/7 Crisis Line 1-800-565-5350 or visit our website Chat Line www.womensresources.ca
By Nancy Payne
