Gender-based violence (GBV) is an act of violence that is rooted in exploiting the unequal power relationships between genders. Women, Girls, Two Spirit, Trans, and Non-Binary people are at the highest risk of experiencing gender-based violence. Acts of violence include experiences of emotional abuse, intimate partner violence, family violence, sexual violence, assault, sexual offences and stalking.
Gender-based violence can also include experiences of:
- Name-calling
- Manipulation
- Forced sex or sexual acts
- Control of money
- Isolation from friends/family
- Threats of harm
- Grabbing, pinching, pushing or hitting
- Stalking
- Cyber-violence
Visit the Canadian Women’s Organization GBV fact sheet for more information regarding gender-based violence.
To get help
- Unsafe At Home Ottawa – text and chat support for violence & abuse: Access to services for those who may be living through increased violence and abuse at home during the COVID-19 pandemic.
- Ottawa Victim Services: Provides support and referrals.
- LGBTQ Resource Guide: A comprehensive Queer and Trans resource and program guide for 2SLGBTQ+ aged 12-24.
- Minwaashin Lodge Ottawa: Indigenous women support center.
- Fem’aide: Information and support for French speaking women.
Crisis lines
- 613-562-2333: The Ottawa Rape Crisis Centre’s 24-Hr Crisis-Line
- 613-789-1141: Minwaashin Lodge violence against Indigenous women Crisis Line
- 613-238-3311: Ottawa Distress Centre
- 613-789-8096: Sexual Assault Centre
- 1-877-330-6366: Trans Lifeline
- 1-866-887-0015: Support Services for Male Survivors of Sexual Violence
How to help someone you think may be a victim of violence
Warning signs that someone is experiencing violence:
- They make excuses for their partners’ behaviour
- They become angry when others mention their partners’ behaviour
- They seem to be sick more often
- They make attempts to cover bruises or injuries
- They seem withdrawn, sad, lonely, and afraid
Visit Western University’s guide for more information on how to identify if an individual may be a victim of violence.
When worried about someone else:
- Remember that violence is everyone’s business
- Share with the individual that you care about them
- Listen without judgment
- Acknowledge that they are in a difficult situation
- Be aware of organizations and resources that offer support
Learn more:
- Safety Planning: Tool to develop a safety plan for individuals who experience violence.
