According to a May 29 news release, the objectives of the program “support targeted and community-driven efforts ... to address the complex root causes of gender-based violence, violence against women, girls and 2SLGBTQQIA+ people.”
The initiative places particular focus on those residing in rural areas with the aim of “[reducing] underlying risk factors that lead to harm and victimization.”
Funding for the program stems from the province’s four-year, $13.6-million bilateral agreement with the federal government under the National Action Plan to End Gender-based Violence — a 10-year initiative focused on victim support, increasing prevention, strengthening response and attending to underserved and at-risk populations.
Newfoundland and Labrador joined the national plan in December 2023.
Grant requests are capped at $50,000, projects must be related to community-based violence prevention and consideration will be given to those focusing on:
- The development of “community support networks”
- Support for survivors, their families and communities
- Engaging men and boys in the prevention of gender-based violence
- Putting an end to the “normalization” of violence
- Addressing the stigma attached to gender-based violence
- Promoting the mental well-being of those impacted
Sherry Gambin-Walsh, Newfoundland and Labrador’s minister responsible for women and gender equity, said community-led organizations are “uniquely positioned to lead violence prevention efforts” via their “knowledge, expertise and strong local connections.”
“Supporting these organizations is a recognition of the vital work grassroots groups do every day to build a safer, more inclusive and resilient Newfoundland and Labrador,” said Gambin-Walsh in a statement.
According to a federal government web page dedicated to the national action plan, gender-based violence can be physical, sexual, psychological, emotional or financial. It can also include “technology-facilitated violence.”
“Everyone has the right to live free from violence,” it states. “However, many people continue to experience violence every day because of their sex, gender, gender identity, gender expression or perceived gender.”
It goes on to call gender-based violence “one of the most pervasive, deadly and deeply rooted human rights violations of our time.”
If you have any information, story ideas or news tips for Law360 Canada, please contact Terry Davidson at t.davidson@lexisnexis.ca or 905-415-5899.