After Brampton Now Toronto City Council Declares Gender-Based Violence an Epidemic in the City

Toronto City Council has formally designated gender-based violence and intimate partner violence an epidemic in the city, a crucial step towards addressing the severe issue. The proposal was spearheaded by newly elected Mayor Olivia Chow, who called on the provincial and federal governments to follow suit. Notably, the Ontario government previously refused to make a such pronouncement.

The proclamation also calls on higher levels of government to put into action the recommendations made by an inquest into the sad deaths of three women in Renfrew County, Ontario, in 2015. Over a year ago, the jury at the coroner’s inquest published 86 recommendations aimed at averting similar catastrophes in the future.

Mayor Olivia Chow has spoken out about her personal connection to the subject, recalling her mother’s violence at the hands of her father. She emphasised the significance of easily available support mechanisms, such as secure and cheap housing, which many victims now lack. The city hopes that by issuing this proclamation, it will increase awareness and spur the required efforts to solve this urgent public health issue.

Toronto has now joined 30 other municipalities in Ontario in making its own statements, recognising the seriousness of intimate partner abuse and its destructive impact on individuals and communities. Notable regions like as Ottawa, Peel Region, Halton Region, and Renfrew County have all taken similar efforts to recognise the importance of this issue.