Intersections of IPV and Trafficking
February 22nd marks National Human Trafficking Awareness Day in Canada.
Human trafficking is a major issue in our province. Ontario has the second highest rate of Human Trafficking out of all the provinces in Canada (Stats Can). Trafficking is an incredibly pressing issue in our community as 62% of Canadian human trafficking cases originate in the GTA. Human trafficking is a form of gender-based violence that disproportionately impacts women and girls and is most often perpetuated by men.
There is a very strong correlation between human trafficking and intimate partner violence. According to Statistics Canda, 91% of human trafficking survivors/victims knew the trafficker and about one-third (34%) of survivors/victims of human trafficking were trafficked by an intimate partner. Even outside of intimate relationships, traffickers will often use “love” and “romance” as a “lure”.
Ontario has an Anti Human Trafficking Strategy that outlined a plan for 2020-2025, as we reach the end of this 5-year strategy, we call on the provincial government to renew their commitment to eliminating human trafficking, along with all other forms of gender-based violence.
The Durham Region Human Trafficking Coalition provides more resources and information on identifying, stopping, and accessing support in relation to human trafficking. You can visit their site here to learn more.
If you or someone you know is experiencing trafficking, there is support available. The Canadian Human Trafficking Hotline, a confidential, multi-lingual service is available 24/7. If you suspect that you or someone you know may be being exploited, if you want to access support, or if you want to learn more, call 1-833-900-1010 or connect with them via chat at www.canadianhumantraffickinghotline.ca.
If you are seeking support with family law during or after leaving an abusive relationship, please reach out to us at 905-728-0978 ext. 235 or toll-free at 1-866-516-3116 ext. 235 or email us at Intake@LukesPlace.ca to book an appointment.
