The City of Brampton and The Region of Peel have both declared gender-based violence and intimate partner violence an epidemic. In a motion brought forward by Councillor Navjit Kaur Brar and Councillor Rowena Santos at Brampton Committee of Council on June 21, council unanimously agreed that the problem is an epidemic and must be addressed with increased supports by all levels of government. The Region of Peel Council also unanimously passed a similar motion on June 22.
Councillor Santos has been an ardent supporter for combating gender-based violence and says “the declaration of an epidemic is important as it escalates this growing problem to the provincial and federal governments and demands immediate action to this crisis situation, urging them to prioritize the implementation of comprehensive measures to address gender-based violence.”
By formally recognizing the epidemic, Brampton and Peel Region is demanding increased funding and support for organizations and agencies including Safe Centre Peel, PCAWA, Embrave, Armagh House, Zonta House, Hope 24/7, Cupid’s Sting and Women and Children Precious Shelter. These essential resources provide vital support and safe spaces for individuals seeking to escape violent relationships.
Both the City of Brampton and Peel Region have a longstanding commitment to addressing domestic violence and violence against women. The City of Brampton council previously passed a motion to support existing programs and work with regional organizations dedicated to assisting survivors of domestic violence. The Region of Peel launched annual awareness campaigns, including “Break the Silence,” which have played a crucial role in empowering women and raising public consciousness about the issue.
By combining their efforts, Brampton and Peel Region aim to create a lasting impact, protect vulnerable community members, and ensure the well-being of all residents. They call upon the provincial and federal governments to heed their declaration and take immediate and meaningful action to combat gender-based violence and intimate partner violence.
Councillor Santos and Councillor Brar previously put forward a motion in December 2022 to empower women leaders in the City of Brampton and address their underrepresentation at leadership tables. By supporting and developing women leaders, the City aims to enhance the effectiveness of policies and create a more inclusive and equitable environment in the fight against GBV.
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Media Contact
Anitpal (Nitu) Grewal – C: (437) 331-4555, Email: Anitpal.Grewal@Brampton.ca
Related Content
- City Council December 14th: Discussion Item at the request of Regional Councillor Santos re: Supporting and Empowering Women at the City of Brampton
- Committee of Council June 21st: Delegations re: Item 9.3.3 – Gender-Based Violence and Intimate Partner Violence in the City of Brampton (timestamp: 1:12:41)
- Committe of Council June 21st: Discussion Item Gender-Based Violence and Intimate Partner Violence in the City of Brampton (timestamp: 1:34:20)
- Regional Council Meeting- June 22, 2023
- Motion to Declare a Gender-Based Violence and Intimate Partner Violence Epidemic in the City of Brampton
- New Initiative to Support and Empower Women at the City of Brampton
- SANTOS: Single mom’s perspective on systemic injustice at a city scale
