Gender-based violence (GBV) refers to harmful acts directed at individuals based on their gender, gender identity, or perceived gender. It encompasses physical, sexual, emotional, psychological, and economic abuse, often rooted in power imbalances and systemic inequalities such as patriarchy, racism, and poverty. In Toronto, GBV has reached alarming levels, prompting the city to declare it an epidemic in 2023. Recent data shows that women and girls account for nearly 80% of intimate partner violence victims, with rates highest among young women aged 12–24, Indigenous women, racialized women, and members of the 2SLGBTQI+ community.
The causes of GBV are complex and interwoven. Socioeconomic stress, lack of affordable housing, mental health challenges, and cultural stigma all contribute to the persistence of violence. Many survivors face barriers to reporting abuse due to fear, shame, or distrust in the justice system. Despite increased awareness, support systems remain strained. In 2023 alone, shelters like Nellie’s in Toronto had to turn away hundreds of women due to capacity limits. The lack of accessible, culturally appropriate services further marginalizes vulnerable populations, especially newcomers and Indigenous women.
Prevention requires a multi-pronged approach: education on healthy relationships, community outreach, trauma-informed care, and policy reform. Toronto offers a range of support services, including the Assaulted Women’s Helpline (416-863-0511), Victim Services Toronto (416-808-7066), and organizations like METRAC and Family Service Toronto. These groups provide counselling, legal aid, housing support, and crisis intervention. However, lasting change depends on collective action and survivor-led initiatives that challenge harmful norms and promote healing.
To foster dialogue and drive transformative research, Waypoint Centre for Mental Health Care invites the community to attend “Storytelling for a Change”, a free in-person event on August 17, 2025, from 12pm to 6pm at Hazelton Manor in Vaughan. This gathering will explore how partnering with survivors of intimate partner violence can shape meaningful solutions. Through shared stories and collaborative discussion, attendees will gain insight into the lived realities of GBV and the power of survivor-led advocacy. Everyone is welcome—because change begins with listening.