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Press Release – Ontario Ministries of Children, Community and Social Services, and Women’s Social and Economic Opportunity
On November 7, Michael Parsa, Minister of Children, Community and Social Services, and Charmaine Williams, Associate Minister of Women's Social and Economic Opportunity, released the following statement:
“Our government stands with the victims, survivors, communities and our partners across the province in recognizing Woman Abuse Prevention Month this November.
Tragedies, such as the recent events in Sault Ste. Marie, are solemn reminders of the devastation that can be caused by intimate partner violence. As a province, we come together in mourning with those affected by these senseless crimes.
It is absolutely unacceptable that one in three women will experience sexual violence in their lifetime, with women being three times more likely to experience stalking and three-and-a-half times more likely to be a victim of intimate partner violence than men. The risk of experiencing violence is higher for women who are Indigenous, racialized or newcomers, as well as women with disabilities.
Our government has zero tolerance for violence against women and children in all its forms. That’s why we are taking action to prevent and address gender-based violence. This year alone we are investing nearly $247 million to support victims of violence, and almost $29 million in violence prevention initiatives.
Ontario will continue to take a stand against gender-based violence and work with our partners to support survivors and people at risk. This month we encourage all Ontarians to show their support by participating in the Wrapped in Courage campaign, taking the White Ribbon pledge, joining events in their local community and helping those around them who may be experiencing violence.
Together, we can work toward building an Ontario that is free of gender-based violence and full of opportunities for girls and women.”
If you or someone you know is experiencing violence, you can find resources and supports, including helplines and shelters, at Ontario.ca/safe.
