Understanding Gender-Based Violence
Gender-based violence (GBV) refers to harmful behaviours directed at someone because of their gender. In Canada, women, girls, and Two Spirit, trans, and non-binary individuals are disproportionately affected.
Gender-based violence can show up in many ways: emotional, physical, or sexual. This might include harassment, insults, intimidation, hitting or restraining someone, stalking, sexual assault, or other actions meant to exert power or control. Many of these acts are illegal.
GBV isn’t limited to intimate relationships. It can occur within families, between coworkers, among friends, or in everyday interactions with acquaintances or strangers. While it can take place anywhere, it most often happens out of public view, between people who know one another, in the physical space, or increasingly in the digital space.
“Every 6 days, a woman in Canada is killed by her intimate partner. But abusive relationships often fly under the radar — and many people end up trapped for years under threats of violence if they try to escape or reach out for help.”
Anyone can be harmed by violence, regardless of background. However, the risk is not equal for everyone. Certain groups face heightened vulnerability because of systemic discrimination and unmet needs. These include:
People with disabilities
Indigenous and racialized women
Trans and non-binary people
Women who are precariously housed or experiencing homelessness
Individuals living in rural or remote communities with limited support services
Recognizing who is at risk, and why, is an important step toward prevention. By educating ourselves and advocating for equitable, accessible support, we can help build communities where everyone is safe and valued.
“If you don’t think this impacts anyone you know — think again. Two-thirds (64%) of Canadians know a woman who has experienced physical, sexual, or emotional abuse.”
Violence against women remains a widespread and deeply concerning issue in Canada, touching lives in every community. Recognizing the many ways it shows up, and the personal and economic toll it takes, is an essential step in our shared work to end it.
If someone you care about confided that they were being harmed, would you feel prepared to support them?
Gender-based violence is often surrounded by silence and misunderstanding. Many people who experience abuse are met with shame or disbelief, while those who want to help sometimes feel unsure about what to say or do. Reducing stigma and building confidence to respond with compassion is an important part of creating safer communities for everyone.
Believe them!
Guide them to resources in the local community: police, women’s shelter or emergency housing.
Educate yourself. There are many online resources and local projects in your community. The Canadian Women’s Foundation have excellent resources to guide your learning, in particular the Signal For Help free Mini-Course
About Soroptimist International of Victoria Westshore:
Founded in 2010, Soroptimist International of Victoria Westshore is dedicated to investing in programs and projects that bring about sustainable, measurable change for women and girls. They provide innovative programs that deal with tough issues: ending violence against women, human trafficking, educational and financial literacy, and career support and mentorship. Through the fun of friendship and the unity of purpose, they empower women and girls to reach their full potential and achieve their dreams