WomanACT Statement on Ontario’s Declaration of Intimate Partner Violence as Endemic

On November 5^th, 2025 the Ontario Legislature unanimously passed a motion recognizing intimate partner violence (IPV) as an endemic, an important acknowledgment that IPV is a persistent,  long-standing and systemic problem requiring sustained attention.

This milestone reflects the strength of survivors and the tireless work of VAW advocates, organizations, and municipalities who have championed the declaration of IPV and/or GBV as an epidemic for years to stress the urgency and magnitude of the issue.

Building on this foundation, we continue to advocate alongside communities across Ontario for comprehensive responses to IPV. Together, we can match words with the meaningful, sustained commitments needed to build a safer, more equitable Ontario for women, gender-diverse people in all communities.

WomanACT’s research on The Current State of Intimate Partner Violence (IPV) in Ontario has shown that preventing violence and supporting survivors requires coordinated, system-level change. In our written submission to the Standing Committee on Justice Policy for their study on IPV, in collaboration with community stakeholders, we outlined evidence-informed recommendations to strengthen prevention, improve survivor-centered responses, and address the structural conditions, such as housing, economic insecurity, and digital abuse, that contribute to violence.

WomanACT remains committed to collaborating with survivors, government partners, and service providers to ensure that this declaration leads to concrete, long-term action and meaningful support for those affected by Gender Based Violence.

This recognition during Woman Abuse Prevention Month and ahead of the global 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence (GBV) reflects growing awareness and commitment across all parties to address this critical issue. We welcome this step forward and remain committed to working collaboratively toward even stronger action.

We are grateful to work in partnership with all levels of government and community stakeholders committed to ending intimate partner violence and gender-based violence.

With commitment,

Harmy Mendoza
Executive Director
WomanACT

Endorsed by the following WomanACT members:

Abrigo Centre

Barbara Issett, Individual WomanACT Member

Barbra Schlifer Commemorative Clinic

Bina Patel, Individual WomanACT Member

Child Development Institute

Colleen Rogers, Individual WomanACT Member

Elizabeth Fry Toronto

Kimberly Gillespie, Individual WomanACT Member

Kris Boyce, Individual WomanACT Member

Nellie’s

North York Women’s Centre

Parkdale Queen West Community Health Centre

Shanice Harris, Individual WomanACT Member

Shivangi Sawh, Individual WomanACT Member

West Neighbourhood House

Yorktown Family Services

Media Contact

Aakanksha Mathur (she/her)  
Manager of Public Policy, Advocacy and Communications  
WomanACT  
416-944-9242 Ext. 231  
amathur@womanact.ca  
womanact.ca