NEW STARTS FOR WOMEN INC

STATEMENT OF PHILOSOPHY

It is a basic human right to live without fear of violence or abuse. All women have the right to live in safety and dignity, free from threat, intimidation and violence.

Violence against women is a criminal offense. It is everyone’s right to receive protection under the law, regardless of the relationship of the parties involved, or where the crime occurs.

This crime transcends all classes, cultures, ethnic origins, marital status and sexual orientation, boundaries.

We acknowledge that some groups of women in our society, such as economically disadvantaged, immigrant, First Nation, francophone and disabled women face a double oppression.

Many forms of violence against women reflect patriarchal attitudes and the economic structure in our society.

Children’s lives are traumatized by exposure to violent environments. Their witnessing and normalizing of violence against women and abuse perpetuates the cycle. Their needs are specific and distinct from the needs of their parents.

Violence and abuse against women is a crime and societal problem- not a private matter. Therefore, all levels of government and society must share responsibility to eliminate it. The solutions lie ultimately in changing values and behaviours so that the outcome is equality between men and women. A gender-based analysis of violence against women is essential to understand these inequalities. Adequate financial support of Shelters and services must be provided. Legislation and enforcement of the law must reflect the seriousness of the crime.