Imagine receiving the devastating news that a beloved daughter, sister, or family member has lost her life—simply because she was a woman. It’s a tragic reality no family should ever face. Yet, by the end of June this year, at least 35 families in Ontario had already faced that nightmare, their lives forever changed by the loss of someone irreplaceable.
As we approach December 6, the National Day of Remembrance and Action on Violence Against Women, these painful numbers cast a heavy shadow on our communities. This day isn’t only about honouring the memory of the 14 young women killed in a misogynistic act of terror at l’École Polytechnique in Montreal in 1989. It’s also a stark reminder that, 35 years later, we still have a long road ahead in creating a society where women are safe, where violence against women is neither tolerated nor excused, and where every woman is valued and protected.
Each year, I join community members from Halton and Hamilton to light candles in commemoration of this solemn day. Each flame serves as a reminder and a call to ignite change within our communities. This year, we stand together, knowing that 95 municipalities in Ontario have declared intimate partner violence an epidemic. Hamilton’s decision came after learning that, in 2022 alone, Hamilton police responded to 12,514 domestic or intimate partner violence calls, while violence-against-women crisis support lines received 7,660 calls. These statistics reveal the severity of a crisis impacting neighbourhoods across Ontario.
As a father of two daughters, this issue hits close to home. I am keenly aware that gender-based violence knows no borders, race, class, or age. It takes many forms—physical, emotional, psychological, economic, and sexual—and its impact is devastating and far-reaching.
Of the 35 reported cases of femicide in Ontario so far this year, the overwhelming majority—89%—of those charged were men who were closely connected to the victim. These connections often represented the very relationships that should have provided love and safety. Among those charged, 37% were current or former intimate partners, highlighting the dangers that many women face even within their most trusted relationships. Another 23% were family members, such as fathers or sons, underscoring the painful reality that violence can emerge from within the home itself. The remaining 29% were other men known to the victim, showing that the threat extends beyond partners and family to include acquaintances who can just as easily breach trust and security.
While it’s encouraging to see communities declare intimate partner violence an epidemic, we need to move beyond symbolic gestures toward tangible action. Like our campaign theme this year, United in ACTION, we need to come together as a community to drive real change. As we light our candles and gather in remembrance, let’s also take the next step. Let’s speak out and support organizations dedicated to preventing violence like United Way Halton & Hamilton, and advocate for stronger protections and resources.
Addressing this epidemic requires comprehensive solutions that recognize and respond to the unique needs of vulnerable populations who are often at higher risk. Indigenous women, racialized women, LGBTQ2+ individuals, seniors, and those with disabilities face disproportionate rates of violence and need approaches that are both sensitive and inclusive to their specific circumstances.
United Way plays a critical role in providing a robust network of support through partnerships with local agencies, ensuring that survivors have access to essential resources such as mental health services, safe housing, and programs that foster economic empowerment. These supports are lifelines that help survivors rebuild their lives and find stability.
Your dedication and support are crucial for sustaining and expanding these programs, allowing us to continue serving the most vulnerable members of our community.
United in ACTION, we can build a future where women and girls are safe, valued, and empowered to thrive.
Brad Park
President and CEO
United Way Halton & Hamilton
