A Living History: Ontario’s VAW/GBV Movement

The journey toward safety, equity, and justice for women and gender-diverse people has been shaped by decades of advocacy, courage, and community collaboration. Those working in gender-based violence prevention and response continue to build upon the foundation laid by the early pioneers of the Violence Against Women (VAW) movement. Understanding this history helps us reflect on where we have been and where we must go next.

In this Facebook Live presentation, A Living History: Ontario’s VAW/GBV Movement, Deborah Sinclair traces the evolution of the VAW movement in Ontario over the past 50 years. Drawing on her research and the voices of 22 trailblazing activists, Sinclair explores the victories, struggles, and shifts that have defined the movement and the enduring question that continues to resonate today:
Are we still a movement, or have we become a sector?

The discussion offers insight into how grassroots activism, survivor leadership, and community organizing have transformed services, legislation, and public understanding of violence against women and gender-based violence. It also invites viewers to reflect on the ongoing need for unity, innovation, and accountability across the field.

Watch the full conversation and explore how collective advocacy continues to influence today’s work to prevent and respond to violence:

Watch here: https://www.gbvlearningnetwork.ca/our-work/facebook-lives/A%20Living%20History/index.html