The tragic murder of a Kootenay community member by her ex-husband has left us outraged and heartbroken. Gender-based violence is a harsh reality in every community, and we feel compelled to speak out against the abuse women too often suffer in silence. With this letter, we stand in solidarity with survivors and those still enduring violence. We support and admire the efforts of all individuals and agencies working to bring change. Action and change are long overdue. Gender-based violence is unacceptable and preventable, and we believe in the possibility of safer communities for women and children.

In 2024, Kaslo Community Service received 19 referrals from community members who have reported experiencing domestic violence. Gender-based violence is pervasive in our province, with nearly 30% of women experiencing physical or sexual intimate partner violence, according to Statistics Canada. That figure is much higher for Indigenous women in BC, reaching 42%. Even with this statistic, we know gender-based violence continues to be an underreported crime due to its complexity and stigma.

Kaslo Community Services stands with YWCA and other signatories to call upon Premier Eby to Declare Gender Based Violence an epidemic.

Please join us in signing by following this link:

https://ywcavan.org/gender-based-violence-epidemic#sign

If you, or someone you know is experiencing domestic violence please reach out to Kaslo Community Services by calling 250 353 7691 or for 24/7 support call  VictimLinkBC: 1-800-563-0808 (toll-free, 24/7, multilingual service available)