We Count Femicide Because… The Urgent Need for Action in Ontario’s 2025 Election

In Ontario, 162 femicides have been reported by the media since May 1, 2022—an alarming increase compared to the previous four years. This devastating reality highlights the urgent need for systemic changes to support survivors and prevent gender-based violence (GBV).

As we approach the 2025 Ontario election, it’s critical that we hold candidates accountable for addressing the crisis. Survivors and frontline workers are demanding affordable housing, core funding for support services, and stronger prevention strategies to ensure safety and justice for those impacted by GBV.

The Crisis: What the Numbers Show

📌 Most femicides are committed by a current or former intimate partner.
📌 Trauma is the leading cause of death among victims.
📌 Racialized women, children, and gender-diverse individuals are disproportionately affected.
📌 70% of shelters can’t afford to double staff, and nearly 60% face a shortage of relief workers.

What Needs to Change?

🔹 Affordable & Safe Housing: Survivors need stable homes to rebuild their lives, but a lack of affordable housing is forcing them to stay in unsafe situations or shelters long-term.
🔹 Core Funding for Shelters & Services: Shelters and GBV support organizations need sustainable funding—not short-term, project-based grants—to retain staff and provide life-saving services.
🔹 Prevention & Education: Addressing racism, sexism, and gender-based oppression through education and community programs is essential to stopping violence before it starts.

What You Can Do

With the 2025 election approaching, it’s time to demand action. Ask candidates:
❓ Will you invest in sustainable funding for GBV shelters and services?
❓ Will you increase access to affordable housing for survivors?
❓ Will you declare Intimate Partner Violence an epidemic in Ontario?

Survivors deserve more than just words—they deserve action. Let’s make femicide prevention a priority in this election.

📢 Get involved & learn more: www.oaith.ca/oaith-work/we-count-femicide-because