Ahead of the 2026 municipal election, the Waterloo Region Gender-Based Violence Strategy has reached out to municipal candidates across Waterloo Region to hear how they would address gender-based violence within their roles as municipal leaders.
Candidates were invited to respond to the following three questions:
Gender-based violence was declared an epidemic in Waterloo Region in 2023. Within the scope of municipal and regional government responsibilities, what specific actions would you take as a municipal leader to prevent and respond to gender-based violence in all its forms in our community?
Survivors of domestic violence, sexual violence, and human trafficking rely on community-based organizations for counselling, advocacy, safety planning, outreach, and other essential supports. What role do you believe municipal and regional governments should play in strengthening these services and addressing gaps in support?
Women and gender-diverse people experiencing homelessness are rarely recognized as victims of gender-based violence, yet more than 74% experience gender-based violence on a weekly basis. Further, according to information gathered through the YWCA Women’s Emergency Shelter, nearly half of women experiencing homelessness identify gender-based violence as the direct cause of their homelessness. For racialized and newcomer women, experiences of violence are often compounded by systemic barriers including poverty, discrimination, language barriers, lack of affordable housing, and limited access to culturally responsive supports.
What actions would you take to improve access to safe and affordable housing, strengthen community supports, and address the unique barriers faced by survivors of gender-based violence seeking safety and stability?
Candidates have been encouraged to share their responses publicly through their own social media platforms to help foster community dialogue and awareness around gender-based violence in Waterloo Region. Responses submitted to the GBV Strategy may also be shared through our community networks.