Breaking News: New Brunswick Declares Gender-Based Violence an Epidemic

The province of New Brunswick has taken a groundbreaking step in acknowledging the severity of gender-based violence by declaring it an epidemic. This move follows in the footsteps of Nova Scotia, which made a similar declaration earlier. The announcement was made after a motion introduced by PC MLA Tammy Scott-Wallace was unanimously adopted in the legislature on Thursday.

A Long-Awaited Declaration

The declaration is a result of tireless efforts by over 20 organizations that wrote an open letter to the province, urging them to take action. These organizations have been working tirelessly to raise awareness about the issue and provide support to victims of gender-based violence. The letter highlighted the alarming rate of intimate partner violence in the province, which has seen an almost 40 percent increase over a 12-year period.

A Strategic Move

According to Scott-Wallace, naming the crisis an epidemic is not just symbolic, but a strategic move to secure the necessary resources to address the issue. "It is putting a proper name to a problem that needs to be addressed," she said. By declaring gender-based violence an epidemic, the province is acknowledging the severity of the issue and committing to take concrete steps to prevent it.

The Alarming Statistics

The most recent available data from 2023 reveals that New Brunswick has the third highest rate of intimate partner violence reported in the country. The statistics are even more alarming in rural communities, where the lack of resources and support makes it even more challenging for victims to seek help. The almost 40 percent increase in intimate partner violence over a 12-year period is a clear indication that the issue is not being adequately addressed.

The Importance of Awareness

Raising awareness about gender-based violence is crucial in preventing it. By talking openly about the issue, we can break the silence and stigma surrounding it. It is essential to educate people about the signs of gender-based violence, the importance of consent, and the resources available to victims. By working together, we can create a society where everyone feels safe and supported.

Get Involved

If you or someone you know is a victim of gender-based violence, there are resources available to help. You can reach out to local organizations, such as women’s shelters or support groups, for assistance. You can also contact the police or a crisis hotline for immediate help.

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• Breaking News: New Brunswick declares gender-based violence an epidemic
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Watch the Video

For more on this story, watch the video above. The video provides a detailed analysis of the issue and features interviews with experts and victims of gender-based violence.

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Content originally published by globalnews.ca