The Federal election is this Monday, September 20th and we are anxiously waiting to see how the outcome will impact survivors of sexualized violence.

At WAVAW, we know that an election at any level of government puts our free-of-charge services in a precarious position. Things we invite you to consider if you head to the polls on Monday include how can our government better serve our community? How can the way we vote help change the conditions that harm survivors? 

We’ve witnessed how a change in government can directly impact the safety and well-being of marginalized communities including BIPOC, 2SLQBTQ+, folks who live in poverty, and refugees. Many survivors we serve are from these communities, and oftentimes their experience of ‘normal’ looks like a government that does not believe in their right to safety and autonomy. 

Voting for a party who will dismantle systems of oppression is voting to enhance the lives of survivors of sexualized violence. A party’s platform on Indigenous sovereignty and land rights, access to affordable housing, and climate change speaks volumes about the future that they are envisioning for survivors. 

While you can review each party’s platform and watch them debate over what they believe is best for Canadians, we also encourage you to take a look at the laws and policies that candidates have supported over the past two years. Here are some examples of how parties in Canada have voted on bills related to issues surrounding marginalized people:

November 16, 2020 – Motion to implement a wealth tax to redistribute funds for basic income, healthcare, and housing | View Voting Outcome 

November 23, 2020 – An amendment to the Criminal Code for continuing education of judges on matters related to sexual assault law and social context | View Voting Outcome  

February 24, 2021 – Motion to reduce barriers to access prescriptions | View Voting Outcome 

May 25, 2021 – Bill C-15, An Act respecting the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples | View Voting Outcome

June 22, 2021 – Bill C-6, An Act to amend the Criminal Code to end conversion therapy in Canada | View Voting Outcome 

June 22, 2021 – Bill C-12, An Act respecting transparency and accountability in Canada’s efforts to achieve net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by the year 2050 | View Voting Outcome

This is only a snapshot of what MP’s are prioritizing for their constituents. You can search ourcommons.ca to see what matters your MP are supporting to see if they align with your values.

We also suggest searching each party’s platform to review where they stand on eradicating sexualized violence and gender-based violence to understand their commitment to survivors. Bonus points if they have worked with communities to establish these ideas!

Let’s work together to welcome a government committed to redefining normal to create a safer future!