Ending Violence Blog

As we approach Valentine’s Day, a time often associated with love and connection, we recognize that, for many women impacted by violence, Valentine’s Day can be a painful reminder of grief and disconnection. But together, we can transform this day into one of hope and connection. We invite you to join us in celebrating resilience, healing, and solidarity with survivors.

Parental alienation accusations disproportionately target mothers, reflecting deeply ingrained societal biases about women, motherhood, and caregiving roles. In the decades since women began making strides to secure safety for themselves and their children from intimate partner violence, an insidious counter-narrative has emerged in family courtrooms worldwide: parental alienation…

Share your invaluable input to inform their investigation and help shape actionable recommendations aimed at removing barriers and improving access to justice for survivors of sexual violence.

Do we stand by as the world is consumed by destructive forces, or do we choose the courage and responsibility needed to build a different future?

Recognizing that the “Friend Zone” does not exist empowers us to foster a culture that prioritizes consent and personal autonomy, effectively challenging the pervasive ideologies that underlie gender-based violence and inequality.

Leaving an abusive partner can be one of the hardest things a person does. Afterward, it’s common to experience a range of emotions, including depression, guilt, anger, loss, and sadness. Remember: There is no right way to feel or heal after you leave an abusive partner.

When facing the difficult decision of whether to end a relationship—especially one marked by unhealthy or abusive dynamics—it’s important to acknowledge your feelings, fears, and hopes. You know your situation best, including how you feel about your partner. But one thing is clear: your safety and well-being are non-negotiable priorities. Whatever choice you make, you are not alone.

The BC Government’s recognition of gender-based violence as an epidemic in its recent mandate letters signals an overdue acknowledgment of the pervasive crisis faced by women, girls, and gender-diverse individuals. While this recognition is necessary, it is not sufficient. BWSS calls for bold and immediate action to address the structural inequalities and entrenched systems that perpetuate this violence.

At BWSS, we hear from women who access our programs wondering if they’re making the right decision about dating—whether it’s about a specific person or dating in general. The truth is simple: only you can decide what’s best for you!

BWSS is calling for bold action: the expansion of rent subsidies tailored to the needs of women and children fleeing violence. This measure can create a pathway from crisis to stability, providing a tangible opportunity for survivors to rebuild their lives with dignity.

In a healthy relationship, both people should feel completely at ease with the level of physical intimacy—whether it’s holding hands, kissing, touching, or having sex. One thing you should always have control over is how far you’re comfortable going with your romantic partner, crush, or even someone you’re casually seeing. Your voice matters, and you should never feel pressured into doing anything you don’t want to do.

A deeper analysis is required to understand what’s at stake—not only for Canada’s economic and political stability but also for the lives and safety of marginalized groups, particularly women and Indigenous communities.