“We need to send a message to the people of Ontario that your government believes ending violence against women and girls is a priority,” said Gordon. “Women across the province are advocating for equality and safety in their lives. As Guelph’s MPP, I’ll advocate for funding and programs to reach that goal.”

Inadequate funding has meant that community rape crisis and sexual assault centres in Ontario have had only a 3% increase in base funding since 1995.

“Just as ending violence against women is an equality issue, women need broad reform in our system - we need to end the gender wage gap, invest in child care, and improve affordable housing programs,” said Gordon. “And fundamentally, we need to ensure that no woman has to choose between living with violence or living in poverty.”

In particular, specific issues of poverty for women, single mothers and disadvantaged communities must be addressed within the province’s poverty reduction strategy.

“Violence against women is a political issue, and elected representatives need to listen to women’s organizations in our community to ensure we’re doing our part,” said Gordon.