Weaving Threads of Change
Transformative Responses to GBV
This project is rooted in the understanding that the current reliance on legal systems and state-based interventions, not only often fails to meet the needs of survivors, but continues to perpetuate cycles of abuse and oppression, in particular, survivors who are from immigrant, newcomer and non-status communities. Our project aims to address these gaps by exploring and promoting anti-carceral and transformative justice responses through an intersectional lens. We hope to re-center the need for alternative responses by highlighting harm that existing legal responses create and the limitations they impose on meaningful accountability and healing for survivors. These responses are grounded in the lived experiences and needs of those who are seeking and demanding alternatives.
What the anti-gender-based violence sector/movement has told us in Ottawa:
In our most recent convening of the GBV sector for the Community Safety and Wellbeing Plan in Ottawa that took place in April 2024, it was identified that alternative responses to police and the legal system were a key priority for the sector. Here are the key recommendations as outlined in the report;
“There was a call for alternative models to traditional police intervention and a question around how we can think about anti-carceral ways to address violence prevention.” (Pg 19 Community Safety and Wellbeing Report – What We Learned, July 2024)
Some survivors of GBV have experienced disproportionate harm at the hands of the systems that they were told would protect them. Police violence, systemic racism, abandonment by the state, and a lack of culturally responsive supports have left many survivors without viable options for safety and justice. By shifting the focus to community-based solutions and expanding survivor options, we aim to create a more just and supportive framework for addressing GBV. A framework that empowers survivors, respects their autonomy, and contributes to the dismantling of harmful systems of oppression is part of building a future where all survivors have access to safe, compassionate, and effective alternatives.
Phases of the Project
Phase 1: Project Set-Up and Planning
In this initial phase, we will finalize project roles, establish our research and advisory committees, and develop a community agreement to ensure safe, respectful engagement. We'll also set up project management tools and plan a community engagement event to introduce the project to partners and gather insights on direction.
Phase 2: Project Mapping and Co-Design
We will conduct a literature review and environmental scan on existing non-carceral GBV supports and policies. This phase also involves co-designing the project's lines of inquiry with the research team and advisory committee to ensure community needs are centered throughout the process, specifically those of immigrant, newcomer, and non-status community members.
Phase 3: Data Collection and Community Feedback
During this phase, we will conduct interviews and focus groups with service providers and community members with lived experience of GBV. We will hear from community members about their needs and non-legal alternatives, while ensuring trauma-informed practices and culturally responsive supports are in place.
Phase 4: Data Analysis
We will analyze the data collected from interviews and focus groups, identifying key themes and insights. This phase focuses on understanding non-legal supports and determining how they can better meet the needs of survivors from marginalized communities.
Phase 5: Reporting and Knowledge Dissemination
In the final phase, we will compile findings into a comprehensive report and develop resources to share with the community. The resources we develop will reflect the experiences of the community and the medium we choose will be selected based on the consultations and input of the Advisory Committee.
Who will guide this project?
Community Advisory Committee comprised of 16 different GBV organizations, community advocates, and survivors
Members of the OCTEVAW, Vivic Research and the Centre for Resilience and Social Development (CRSD)
How to stay informed?
Follow OCTEVAW on Facebook, Instagram, and x (formerly Twitter) or sign up to our newsletter for project updates.
If you are interested in contributing to this project or would like more information, please contact research@octevaw-cocvff.ca. Together, we can create safer, more supportive communities for everyone.