Sexual Violence Prevention Month  

May is recognized as Sexual Violence Prevention Month in Ontario and across Canada. This is an important time to raise awareness about the prevalence of sexual violence and to strengthen efforts to support survivors and prevent harm.

Sexual violence is deeply gendered. Women, girls, and gender-diverse people are far more likely to experience sexual violence than men. In Canada, approximately 1 in 4 women have experienced sexual assault since the age of 15, and the risk is even greater for Indigenous women, women with disabilities, and those facing other systemic barriers. The person responsible for this violence is often someone known to the survivor, including friends, acquaintances, family members, or intimate partners.

Sexual violence that occurs within intimate relationships is referred to as intimate partner sexual violence. This form of violence involves coercion, threats, manipulation, or physical force, and is rooted in power and control. Despite persistent myths, sexual violence can and does occur within relationships and marriage.

It is difficult to capture the full scope of intimate partner sexual violence, as it remains significantly underreported. Research suggests that fewer than 1 in 10 sexual assaults in Canada are reported to police, a trend reflected in Ontario. Many survivors do not come forward due to fear, stigma, concerns about not being believed, or lack of trust in the legal system. Even when recognized, this form of violence is often misunderstood or minimized.

Intimate partner sexual violence can have profound and long-term impacts on survivors’ physical, emotional, and financial well-being. It is also associated with increased risk of serious harm and lethality, particularly when combined with other forms of abuse.

At Luke’s Place, we see firsthand how survivors of intimate partner sexual violence face additional barriers when navigating the family law system. Many are forced to represent themselves while managing ongoing safety concerns and trauma. Our services provide trauma-informed, survivor-centred legal support to help women make informed decisions, prioritize their safety, and move forward with greater stability and confidence.

If you or someone you know needs support, Luke’s Place offers free legal information, advice, and resources for women navigating family court after abuse.

Resources

If you or someone you know is experiencing sexual violence, support is available:

• Ontario Coalition of Rape Crisis Centres
  A network of sexual assault centres across Ontario offering free, confidential support services. You can find your local centre through their website.
• Assaulted Women’s Helpline
  24/7 confidential support for women across Ontario
  📞 1-866-863-0511 | TTY: 1-866-863-7868
• Ending Violence Association of Canada
  A Canada-wide directory of sexual assault centres, crisis lines, and support services by province and territory.
• Luke’s Place Support and Resource Centre for Women and Children
  Provides free legal information, advice, and support for women navigating the family law system after intimate partner violence.
  📞 905-728-0978 ext. 235 | Toll-free: 1-866-516-3116 ext. 235