City councillors in Vancouver are set to deliberate on a proposal this week regarding the development of a strategy to prevent gender-based violence. This initiative, put forth by Councillor Rebecca Bligh, aims to create a task force comprising both law enforcement personnel and survivors of gender-based violence.
While the motion has garnered optimism from advocates, many stress the importance of taking concrete action to address the issue. Angela Marie MacDougall of the Battered Women’s Support Services (BWSS) acknowledges the significance of the proposed task force but emphasizes that it is just a starting point, not the ultimate solution.
MacDougall highlights the need for a comprehensive municipal action plan rather than relying solely on raising awareness. Alongside the task force, BWSS is advocating for a public awareness campaign and increased funding to combat gender-based violence effectively.
Expressing concern over the rising incidents of violence against women in Vancouver, MacDougall urges city officials to appoint a dedicated leader to head the task force. She points out that despite claims of a decrease in overall violence, the rates of gender-based violence have, in fact, surged, leading to tragic outcomes for numerous women.
In the past 15 months alone, over 30 women in British Columbia fell victim to gender-based violence, underscoring the urgency of addressing this pressing issue. The motion will be deliberated at the upcoming session of the city’s Standing Committee on City Finance and Services.
Keyphrase: Gender-based violence prevention