Ending Violence Blog
Via our award winning blog Battered Women’s Support Services provides education and advocacy as we work towards the elimination of violence.
BWSS Response to the BC Government’s Mandate on Gender-Based Violence as an Epidemic
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.
Should I Date?: A Guide to Self-Reflection and Healthy Choices
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!
Breaking Barriers: Addressing the Housing Crisis for Women Fleeing Violence in BC
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.
How to Build Healthy Boundaries in Romantic Relationships
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.
Trump’s Rhetoric Against Canada: A New Chapter in an Old Playbook
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.
BWSS Granted Leave to Intervene in Ahluwalia v. Ahluwalia
Intimate partner violence (IPV) manifests in many forms, all of which cause profound harm to victims and survivors, who are disproportionately women and children. In August, the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada declared that gender-based violence is an epidemic…
Why Is This a Threat? (Stalking Awareness Month)
A note that says “I love you”… For many, it’s a tender message. But for someone escaping intimate partner violence, finding this note—written in their abusive partner’s handwriting—on their workplace desk or the door of their new apartment can be a chilling sign: their stalker has found them and plans to continue the abuse.
The Growing Concern of Matricide: Analyzing Sons Killing Their Mothers in Canada and Globally
Matricide, the act of a son killing his mother, represents one of the most disturbing and tragic forms of gender-based violence. While statistically rare, it reveals a deeply entrenched intersection of mental health crises, misogyny, patriarchal values, and systemic failures…
Bro-der Security: A Feminist Guide to the MAGA vs. Tech Bro Immigration Cage Match (Now with Bonus Canadian Content!)
If American politics were a reality TV show—and let’s face it, it basically is—this season's main event would be the immigration smackdown between MAGA populists and Silicon Valley tech bros. In one corner: flag-waving patriots chanting, “Build the wall!” In the...
You Still Need Consent Under The Mistletoe
The holiday season is all about giving, and of course, being kind to others. So as the new year approaches, let’s take this opportunity to sharpen our understanding of consent.
Breaking Free Together: Finding Safety for Domestic Violence Victims and Their Companion Animals
Violence against women and companion animals is a stark, often interconnected form of abuse that reveals the abusive partner’s desire to exert control and instill fear. Abusive partners frequently harm or threaten pets to manipulate their victims, knowing the deep emotional bond between the victim and their companion animal. This dynamic can trap victims in abusive relationships, as the fear of harm coming to their beloved pets becomes a barrier to leaving.
Gisèle Pelicot’s Courageous Stand Leads to Conviction of Ex-Husband and 50 Others involved in a Decade of Unseen Terror
Violence against women is an epidemic that doesn’t pause for the holidays. Intimate partner, domestic, or sexualized violence can escalate during this time, making a safety plan is essential. Here’s what you need to know.