Who We Are
We are a coalition led by Violence Against Women (VAW) women's organizations, working with community and government agencies, individuals, survivors and consumers, who are committed to the eradication of violence against women and their children. We strive to reflect and represent the diversity of our community.
Vision
To live in communities without violence.
Mission
Communities without violence, abuse, oppression, and exploitation of women (and their children). Guided by an anti-racist, anti-oppression feminist framework, we support efforts through advocacy, education and leadership to engage the community to end violence against women (and their children) by working to remove systemic barriers that perpetuate this violence
Long Term Goals
Over the long haul, WAWG will focus its efforts on:
- Educating service providers, professionals, and the general public regarding the causes and effects of women abuse, systemic discrimination and oppression.
- Actively support and engage in activities, which investigate and evaluate issues relevant to woman abuse
- Commitment to Achieve Ongoing and Long Term Goals
Value Statements
WAWG believes:
- It is a basic human right for all individuals to live free of violence, oppression or exploitation
- Violence against women in its many forms stems from a global and cultural context of discrimination against women and is supported by the economic, social and political structures of society
- Many forms of abuse are illegal and all forms are morally offensive demanding that the offender, not victims be held responsible for their behaviour
- Violence against women has a destructive, long lasting impact on women, her children and family relationships, as well as the community as a whole
- There is a profoundly negative impact on children who are exposed to woman abuse
- Given that women who have experienced violence may display a variety of behaviours that may not be understood or considered appropriate, it is essential that these behaviours can be coping strategies in reaction to violence which the woman incorporates as necessary for survival.
- Women have the right to services that are sensitive and appropriate and that meet their needs, regardless of social, cultural, racial, physical, religious, sexual orientation or economic factors
- All members of WAWG, consumer and the general public should be treated with respect, compassion, sensitivity and consideration for personhood
