Issue 2015-2 1404-510 West Hastings Street, Vancouver BC V6B 1L8 Tel 604.633.2506 Fax 604.633.2507 www.endingviolence.org GETHE TO R! E B This year EVA BC is working C C Five keynote presenters will be N C with key cross sector partners E O among those present to share L L to host a joint collaborative O L their expertise and experiences I A

training forum that is the first of V B with training forum participants

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Columbia. On December 9-10, T workers, police, policy-makers

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Ending Violence Association of D Liz Donegan of the Austin Police

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L O A P U S X BC, BC Society of Transition E Department’s Sex Crimes Unit; Houses, and Police Victim well-known violence and trauma Services of BC, along with the expert Lori Haskell; Deepa Royal Canadian Mounted Mattoo, a lawyer with the South Police, BC Association of Chiefs Asian Legal Clinic of Ontario; of Police, Provincial Office December 9 & 10, 2015 Georgia Nemetz, psychologist of Domestic Violence, Ministry and expert on vicarious trauma; of Justice and Government Hyatt Regency Hotel and BC’s Representative for partners will gather together in Vancouver BC Children and Youth, Mary Ellen Vancouver for a two-day, cross Turpel-Lafond. Read on for a provincial, cross sector training BCCollaborates.ca sampling of what to expect forum. from them… continued page 3

Sgt. Liz Donegan Lori Haskell Deepa Mattoo Mary Ellen Turpel-Lafond

INSIDE THIS ISSUE ICAT: BC’s Collaborative Model ...... p. 12 News from Around BC ...... p. 15 Training, Projects & Partnerships...... p. 17 EVA BC NEWSLETTER / FALL 2015

Ending Violence Association Message from the Executive Director of British Columbia (EVA BC) Welcome to everyone attending this year’s joint training forum, 1404-510 West Hastings Street Together! BC Collaborates to Stop Sexual & Domestic Violence. Vancouver, BC V6B 1L8 This training forum marks a first in BC history with its unparalleled Phone: 604-633-2506 cross-sector collaboration to address the epidemic of violence Fax: 604-633-2507 against women and children. We trust you will be inspired and Toll-free (members only): informed by the incredible keynotes and workshops offered. 1-877-633-2505 This edition of the newsletter features articles graciously [email protected] contributed by the five distinguished keynote speakers who will www.endingviolence.org be presenting at the training forum. Editor Sgt. Elizabeth Donegan of the Austin Police Department’s Sex Nancy Boyce Crimes Unit looks at an issue anti-violence workers know well – a lack of understanding about sexual assault that results in the Layout and Design blaming of victims. Well-known violence and trauma expert Britt Permien Lori Haskell shares insights into the impacts of trauma and the Contributors psychological harms of sexual and domestic violence. Deepa EVA BC and CCWS staff, Mattoo, Staff Lawyer with the South Asian Legal Clinic of Ontario, Nicki Breuer, Anne Davis, relates some of SALCO’s findings into the complexities and realities Elizabeth Donegan, Lori Haskell, of forced marriages. Dr. Georgia Nemetz, a registered clinical Jason James, Maureen MacLennan, psychologist and expert on vicarious trauma reminds us that taking Deepa Mattoo, Georgia Nemetz, and care of ourselves is not indulgent or selfish, it’s essential, as she Mary Ellen Turpel-Lafond. offers commonsense advice on how to recognize and manage the impacts of the very difficult work we do. And BC’s Representative for Children and Youth, Mary Ellen Turpel-Lafond, inspires us with This newsletter is published two times per her message of collaboration and cooperation as keys to enhancing year and provided free of charge to EVA BC safety for women and children. We are thrilled and grateful that members. The views expressed by newsletter each and every one of these speakers is sharing their expertise contributors do not necessarily reflect those of with us this year. the EVA BC Board and/or staff. Submit your ideas, articles and photos for future newslet- I hope training forum participants will especially enjoy the incredible ters to [email protected]. opportunity to build relationships with colleagues from the many EVA BC core services are supported by the anti-violence programs and other sectors represented at this year’s Ministry of Justice and the Vancouver Coastal collaborative training forum. Again, welcome all! Health Authority. With respect, Tracy Porteous Charitable # 13926 5821 RR0001

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TOGETHER! BC COLLABORATES TO STOP

SEXUAL AND DOMESTIC VIOLENCE continued from page 1

SHE WAS ASKING FOR IT are filled with anger and remorse. We Irish are famous for our wakes and celebration of life. By Elizabeth Donegan Growing up, it was normal to attend a wake and How many times have we heard a victim of sexual following it, a get-together with family and friends. assault was somehow responsible for being sexually My own father at his wake was remembered with assaulted? The victim did not act like a rape victim. laughter and tears. Each of my four sisters reacted She should have known better. What did she expect? very differently — one cried rather hysterically; one laughed in the middle of the wake; one sister initially It seems incredible that we ourselves would ever showed little reaction at all. Their responses did not think or say that a victim of sexual assault had some make their grief any less. If we could understand culpability in the assault—yet that occurs more that the reactions of victims to sexual assault are as often than not. In no other crime do we challenge varied as are the reactions to death, we would have the credibility and believability of a victim from the an easier time understanding and accepting their moment she discloses on throughout the judicial response to the assault. process. In some cases, as in the Roman Polanski rape, we continue blaming the victim decades later Leave your Baggage at the Door despite the judgment by the court. We often run into another common barrier - victim blaming. Looking for fault in the victim’s actions, Part of the issue surrounding our lack of understand- which would lead us to believe that she asked for it. ing of sexual assault goes back to institutionalized think- When a victim is sexually assaulted we immediately ing. We learned as young children from our parents begin looking at whether the assault and victim are about sexual assault; who are the victims and who credible. When that doesn’t discredit her, we then are the suspects that commit these crimes. As we switch to her behavior. She shouldn’t have been grew older we continued to hear a similar theme drinking. She should have known better than to go which was consistently reinforced by what was home with someone she just met. She should have reported in the media. We have a difficult time in our locked her door. We can overcome these biases by society coming to terms with sexual assault victims having a better understanding of the psychology of behaving outside our preconceived ideas about how sexual assault victimization and being sensitive to she/he should act. We need to understand that all our own bias, prejudice and myths. victims of crime act in a manner that is very individual to their personal experiences. Each of us has Perpetrator Accountability experienced traumatic events in our lives, these Traditionally the non-stranger rapist has been viewed events have molded us to react to certain incidents as less culpable for his actions (boys will be boys; he in a way that works for us. had too much to drink and didn’t communicate his intentions well), less dangerous than stranger rapist. Understanding Trauma The finding of recent studies indicate that non- To put it into perspective, we all have experienced stranger rapists are “as likely to be serial and multi- death in our lives. Grief is a very personal, individual faceted offenders as incarcerated rapists”.2 experience. Some of us might grieve outwardly — sharing our thoughts, our feelings, and our loss with The research clearly indicates the overwhelming anyone who might listen. Still, some might not show percentages of rapes are committed by non- any emotion, preferring to grieve in private; others strangers. Yet, we refuse to hold these perpetrators

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accountable. The current “Hollywood” version of trauma on the brain, body and self, have enormous rape is a myth, alive, well - and flourishing. We as a implications for the criminal justice system. society do not want to believe that those who are A trauma informed approach is, in fact, increasingly committing the majority of rapes are people we know becoming recognized as essential for working and trust. It hits too close to home. The actions of effectively with clients who have experienced sexual the perpetrator should be the focus of the investigation. violence and abuse in a variety of settings, including Perpetrators know better than anyone else the bias, the health care sector, mental health services and prejudice, and myths our society holds against increasingly, for police and legal responses. victims of sexual assault. They exploit our bias and we as a society are responsible to a certain degree The brain’s response to trauma is complex, and for allowing that to happen. human behavior in response to trauma, particularly sexual violence, can be subject not only to misunder- We can make a difference in our response to sexual standing but even stereotyping. For example, there assault investigations. We can effect cultural change by still persist popular but mistaken beliefs that victims ensuring victims receive the best possible service and of sexual assault are expected to react in certain perpetrators are held accountable for their crimes. This ways, such as fighting back and reporting the type of change begins by believing victims. assault immediately, in order to demonstrate that Sergeant Elizabeth Donegan is a 23-year they really were victimized. But many women freeze veteran of the Austin Police during unwanted sexual experiences and when Department in Austin, Texas. under threat so they do not fight back. And there are For over nine years she led many reasons victims might not choose to report an the APD Sex Crimes Unit, experience of sexual or domestic violence to the widely recognized for its police immediately or ever. progressive approach toward Recent neurobiological research, therefore, offers investigating sexual assault, important information to correct some of the misap- providing better service to prehensions and biases that too often shape victims, and changing the traditional social and institutional responses to culture surrounding the victims of sexual and domestic violence. Trauma investigation of non-stranger informed approaches can help remedy this. sexual assault. Some Key Elements of Trauma – The Disruption of Memory and Narrative UNDERSTANDING AND RESPONDING One of the major advances in our understanding of TO THE PSYCHOLOGICAL HARMS trauma pertains to the ways in which traumatic OF SEXUAL AND DOMESTIC memories are encoded. This encoding has signifi- VIOLENCE: A TRAUMA INFORMED cant implications for how people relate their experiences of abuse, violence and trauma. A traumatic APPROACH experience such as a sexual assault or experience By Lori Haskell of domestic violence is a threat or injury that requires self-protective reaction– essentially fight or Sexual and domestic violence are traumatic events. flight. During a traumatic experience the neurobiological In many cases, the responses and coping of women responses dominate and these self-protective who have endured traumatic events, and the ways in reactions literally hijacks the brain and body in which they may recount these experiences, are not order to achieve survival against the perceived well understood by police, members of the legal system, threat. For women who experience ongoing sexual, and the general public. But the developments in and/or physical abuse, there is a pervasive impact neurobiological knowledge about the impact of

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on the brain, resulting in wide-ranging behavioral • Exhibit no apparent emotional expression and neurobiological effects, including high levels of following the assault chronic physiological arousal. • Struggle with decision making • Have great difficulty processing information and One of the more significant findings in this area forming a narrative. results from the use of brain imaging technology. • Demonstrate a loss of memory for events Scientists can now identify which parts of the brain preceding the assault are activated when a person contemplates a • Seek mental and physical health care but if they traumatic memory such as sexual assault. It is critical do, they may not consult with a professional with for anyone working with women who have experienced specialized training in psychological trauma. sexual violence to be aware of trauma related They often are given diagnoses or explanations difficulties in memory and recall. that do not capture the depth of their experience Relevance of the Neurobiology of or worse which pathologize them, which can Traumatic Responses for the then, in turn, undermine their credibility. Criminal Justice System Trauma informed work with victims of sexual violence The developments in neurobiological knowledge and domestic violence means understanding the about the impact of trauma on the brain, body and pervasiveness of these experiences and recognizing self, have enormous implications for the criminal justice the diversity of victim responses. It means appreciating system and for those working within this system, or the physical, psychological, social and emotional working to support those going through it. effects and impacts of trauma in victims’ lives. It means working to respect victims and avoiding Very often in a sexual assault and rape case, a re-traumatizing them in the institutions they must victim’s presentation is not a straightforward narrative navigate. A trauma informed approach can help us or linear recounting of her experiences, but instead craft better policy and individual interventions to support may be rather a fragmented non-linear narrative with victims, while we work towards a world without moments of intense affect, along with moments violence against women and children. of questioning and confusion. This is a common pattern of recall of traumatized persons. Dr. Lori Haskell has been dedicated to the prevention, treatment, and training on As well, the victim of sexual violence may present in issues of sexual violence for a flat, monotone manner and may not express any the past 25 years. Her visible emotional reactions. This can seem counter- research work includes intuitive to both the victim and others. Many first projects addressing the responders are confused by this presentation, impact of trauma on Aboriginal and they may minimize or discount the victim’s experi- peoples, trauma and the ence because they make the mistaken assumption service challenges for devel- that if the rape or sexual assault was traumatic, then opmentally disabled people, the victim will express intense emotions and upset in complex trauma and home- recounting the event. lessness, and restorative During and following a sexual assault victims may: justice and gendered violence. • Not be able to make self-protective decisions and REFERENCES fail to fight or otherwise physically resist during Boeschen, L. E., Sales, B. D., &Koss, M. P. (1998). Rape trauma the assault experts in the courtroom. Psychology, Public Policy and Law, • Experience “frozen fright” during the assault 4,414- 432. • Have difficulty remembering specific details of Cozolino, Louis (2006). The Neuroscience of Psychotherapy the event, especially if they have had a freeze or dissociative response Edna B. Foa and Barbara Olasov Rothbaum (1998) Treating the

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Trauma of Rape: Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy for PTSD. New across races, religions, continents and economic status. York: Guilford Press. Clients who are facing FM are also often populations Herman, J. (1990) Trauma and Recovery: The Aftermath of that are marginalized on a number of levels relating to Violence—From Domestic Abuse to Political Terror, New York: race, income, immigration status, and language, and Basic Books. face significant barriers to equality, which contribute to Lanius RA, Williamson PC, Densmore M, Boksman K, Neufeld the conditions leading to FM and family violence. RW, Gati JS, Menon RS (2004). The Nature of Traumatic SALCO has encountered cases where victims from Memories: A 4.0 Tesla fMRI various backgrounds entered into matrimonial Functional Connectivity Analysis. Am J Psychiatry arrangements through their families under false Jan;161(1):36-44. pretenses that involved physical abuse, emotional van der kolk, Bessel (2014). The body Keeps the Score: Brain, abuse and exploitation. In its work with victims of Mind, and Body in the Healing of Trauma. forced marriage, SALCO has uncovered a number of van der Kolk, (2006), Clinical Implications of Neuroscience policy, legal and social barriers to addressing these Research in PTSD. Annals of the New York Academy of issues. These barriers and gaps include but are not Sciences, pp. 1-17 limited to: • Lack of protocols at an institutional level, FORCED MARRIAGES: • Jurisdictional issues, COMPLEXITIES AND REALITY • Lack of trust between communities and authorities, By Deepa Mattoo • Cultural stereotyping of the issue, • Complexities related to the immigration and Incidents of forced marriages (FM) and issues refugee process, and related to FM are not new to Canada. The South • The context in which this practice is located Asian Legal Clinic of Ontario (SALCO) has been includes social and economic concerns, regressive actively working on the issue of forced/non-consensual immigration policies, xenophobia, racism, marriage with an advisory committee of community heterosexism/homophobia and poverty. agencies since 2005 2. The issue of FM has many myths attached to it. One of the most common Since the release of the SALCO’s statistical report myths is that there is no difference between forced (2013) “Who/If/When to Marry: The Incidence of 4 marriages and arranged marriages. In reality, a collective Forced Marriage in Ontario” , this issue has decision of families is involved in arranged marriages, attracted a lot of wanted and unwanted attention in but unlike forced marriages, there is clear choice and Canada. The report contains data on demographic consent of the parties getting married. information about FM clients, and substantive data about the driving factors leading to FM, the barriers “A forced marriage is a form of violence and an clients face, and the challenges service providers abuse of human rights. It is a practice in which a confront in serving FM clients. While the attention marriage takes place without the free consent of the has created options for better resources and funding individuals getting married. Forced marriage can on the issue, it has also been co-opted to further their 3 happen to anyone; of any gender, of any age.” This racist discourses and agendas through focus on crimi- definition of forced marriages evolved from extensive nalization of these issues through Bill S-7, Zero discussions and debates among member agencies Tolerance for Barbaric Cultural Practices Act, and of SALCO’s advisory group from 2007 to 2009, it more recently with an announcement of a “tip line” was later renamed as Network of Agencies against for reporting barbaric cultural practices. Forced Marriages (NAAFM). This terminology of “barbaric” communities divides Community advocates and organizations addressing communities between “backward” cultures and FM understand that FM as a practice is not confined to “modern” cultures. The perpetuation of racist myths a particular culture, religion or region, but it occurs

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that target specific racialized and marginalized com- stand for survivors of gender based violence, whose munities further homogenizes them. Criminalization voices have told us time and time again that they and a “tip line” for issues of FM is no solution to the would not come forward if it meant criminal sanctions real needs of FM survivors and, in fact, creates an or deportation for their own family. We must continue environment of fear mongering against immigrant to ensure that survivors (and not perpetrators) are communities that perpetuates xenophobia, racism at the center of these discussions. and islamophobia in Canada. Deepa Mattoo, LLB, MBA is a Staff Lawyer with South Forced marriages, like many other issues related to Asian Legal Clinic of Ontario gender based violence is very complex and (SALCO). She has been commonly perceived by mainstream Canadians as a working with SALCO since particular cultural practice, which leads to a lack of 2007. She has a long history accountability from the larger society. It is often of providing services to low- regarded as a common practice among immigrants income and vulnerable popu- from South Asia, the Middle East and certain parts lations. Deepa has worked with of Africa. However, according to SALCO’s research, multiple projects related to forced marriages occur in many cultures and faiths Forced Marriages and so-called and to Canadian citizens, though condemned by “Honour Based Violence” most communities and religions. “Every major faith and has become a resident condemns the practice [of forced marriage] and expert on the issues. requires freely given consent for marriage, as does the law in most states.”5 The issue of criminalization of forced marriages in VICARIOUS TRAUMA, YOUR JOB the Canadian context is unique because existing AND ITS IMPACT: ALL THE COM- criminal laws have sufficient provisions that can be MONSENSE ADVICE YOU WOULD applied to duress, harm, assault, kidnapping and the GIVE YOUR BEST FRIEND like that might be inflicted on survivors of forced By Georgia Nemetz marriage. In spite of existing laws, survivors rarely disclose the issues of violence to police and other Most health care professionals, first responders, policy enforcement agencies because, in most cases of makers and caretakers involved with victims of forced marriages, families are the perpetrators of domestic and sexual violence at any level tend to violence, and at the same time the only social support become immersed in their clients, their cases and of survivor. This complexity makes it complicated for the collateral damage. Rightfully so, but the hidden survivors to disclose and isolates survivors even further cost in the scenario is the deterioration of the mental if the only option is to pursue criminal action against and physical health of all those involved in the their perpetrators. In addition, the criminal justice helping process. The vicarious or secondary system is neither trained to deal with the complexities trauma (Figley 1995) spans a large continuum from of FM nor are sensitive towards it. In fact, in many interviewing a victim or suspect to reviewing a file, cases where survivors disclose they have reported viewing evidence to actual treatment of a victim they face racism from the justice system. In addition, and/or their family, collaborating with lawyers to our experience tells us that criminalization has testifying in court. All of the above are exacerbated potential to become a tool to further target and over by feelings of inadequacy, inability to right a wrong, police racialized communities. frustration at imperfect or antiquated systems and despair at lack of fiscal and organizational We suggest that educating and raising awareness resources. Most cope for a period of time fueled by within immigration, law enforcement, health and passion, hyper-vigilance and the sheer volume of education sectors is the best practice. Finally, we

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the workload. Somehow it becomes easier to • impaired judgment continue when there is no hope of delegation. • preoccupation with client and trauma • inability to separate home and work The cost is typically insidious and evidenced in every • relationship discord facet of the individual’s life. At work things start slipping • irritability, decreased tolerance and through ever widening cracks, details get lost, precision anger outbursts and conscientiousness begin to slowly diminish. The • increase in addictive behaviors opposite is also possible where the individual • difficulty making decisions becomes ever more vigilant to the point of obsession. • impulsiveness and risk-taking You begin to stay later and later as your productivity • social withdrawal slowly decreases. You become angry and frustrated • procrastination at yourselves, colleagues and clients. This decreased • apathy, decreased motivation tolerance and irritability then invades your home life. • cognitive impairment i.e. focus, concentration, Your family becomes the target of your frustration memory and problem-solving and shortened temper, conflicts increase and gaps • inability to multi-task widen in your relationships with partners, family members • easily overwhelmed and friends. Everything becomes overwhelming and you begin to withdraw and isolate because it’s just How to Cope easier. Your personal behaviors are effected as well, one • need to replenish and commit drink becomes two or three, your self- care diminishes to life outside of work and physical activity declines dramatically. You don’t • accept limitations return phone calls, make excuses for social events • record and celebrate success and non-interactive activities become the norm. • debrief with colleagues Feelings of anxiety, hopelessness, fatigue, irritability • seek professional help and frustration ensue. • understand normal response to abnormal Is everyone vulnerable, yes to varying degrees and situation not a sign of weakness at different points in their careers. No one can • get undisturbed sleep consistently outrun the psychological avalanche • maintain healthy habits caused by consistently dealing with this population. • if necessary take time off Your vulnerability at any given time depends on your • take breaks and vacations psychological and physical status, general stress • build resilience with outside friends, interests levels and degree of personalization with any specific and hobbies case. All of the aforementioned only serve to • prioritize and engage in constructive decrease your resiliency and thus increase your problem-solving vulnerability to cumulative stress, critical incident • do not self-medicate, become more self-critical, stress and vicarious trauma. Where you are on these work harder or QUIT continua at any given time dictates your resiliency and response and explains why individuals react Remember! Taking care of uniquely to similar stressors. Very often for long yourself is not indulgent, serving first responders and caretakers it is a minor situation, which upsets the delicate psychological self-centred, selfish or balance we all struggle to maintain. narcissistic. It is essential to Signs and Symptoms allow you to be an effective • any change in your normal behavior caregiver, parent, partner, • sleep disturbance • change in eating habits friend and professional.

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Additional Tips: In my work as B.C.’s Representative for Children and • set attainable goals and reward yourself Youth, I am only too well aware of the incidence of • set realistic expectations and develop appropriate intimate partner violence and its effects on children boundaries and youth. • be assertive with your own needs As a society, our general response to perpetrators of • delegate where possible domestic violence has taken a siloed approach and • ask for help has ranged from lacklustre – believing it to be a family • monitor your own physical and psychological matter – to punitive. Although there has been warning signs significant reform in the way police deal with • do not let cumulative stressors build domestic violence, a cooperative approach is far • examine your shoulds more likely to prevent this violence in the first place. • debrief with colleagues Social workers, schools, community agencies, cultural • let stake holders i.e. family and friends know how organizations, centres of worship and the health you are feeling; don’t pretend and cover-up system each play a role, yet for the most part, have • maintain structure and routine responded separately. Meantime, intimate partner • be aware of and monitor your unhealthy stress violence remains widespread and very often shrouded reduces in secrecy. • know your limits When our existing responses to sexual assault and Dr. Georgia Nemetz is a Registered Clinical Psychologist domestic violence are scattered, women, children in full-time private practice. She is and their families are left at risk. The reality is that the retired Chief of Psychology intimate partner violence crosses cultures, religions at the Royal Columbian Hospital, and generations, and how we respond must reflect a post she held for 25 years. Dr. this diversity. There is power in cooperative Nemetz provides consultation on approaches to preventing violence and much more is a range of topics to several required than what government can do alone. police forces including the RCMP This approach is key to enhancing the safety and Vancouver Police of women and children and contributing to better Department and other clients long-term outcomes. such as WorkSafe BC and Emergency Health Services. Because domestic violence does not discriminate, tackling these issues requires collaborative leader- ship with a diverse response that includes education, COLLABORATION AND COOPERATION: training and practice. KEYS TO ENHANCING SAFETY FOR If we agree that collaborative improvement is WOMEN AND CHILDREN vital, any discussion of domestic violence must By Mary Ellen Turpel-Lafond include child welfare – applying a child protection lens to domestic violence – as part and parcel Less than a generation ago, there was little under- and not a separate issue, particularly as standing of the impact of trauma on individuals, families domestic violence has been identified as the and society. Research in the past 10 or so years has second most common form of substantiated child given us insight into this impact and how long-term maltreatment in Canada. We now know much and multi-generational injuries affect the brains of about the impact witnessing domestic violence women, children and youth who are abused or has on child and youth development. There is witness abuse. It is now clear that violence and substantial evidence indicating that children who trauma can wreak havoc on our physical and mental witness domestic violence have “psycho-social health as well as our relationships with others. maladaptation” resulting from actual physical

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changes in the makeup of their central nervous internalize stress – it’s what they have in common system. Sadly, individuals with these changes do with each other. It makes sense that medical profes- not function well in society. sionals receive some education about the link between common health issues and domestic In addition to brain changes affecting children and violence so that they will recognize the link and youth who witness domestic abuse, 30 to 40 per understand when to ask questions of their patients cent of these children and youth also experience about intimate partner violence. physical abuse. These children need specialized interventions and supports that help address their The B.C. government has a domestic violence plan, experiences of witnessing abuse. but it does not address the role of factors such as poverty and unemployment, effective community As well as ensuring the inclusion of a child protection collaboration or cross-sectoral training. If we are to lens on domestic violence, it is crucial to take into do better in B.C. we must commit to the development account issues of diversity that can make it challenging of a robust, comprehensive approach that is focused for victims to access services to keep them and their on partnerships, education and training. Only then children safe. can we look each other in the eye and know we are Recognizing helpful ways to respond, both within doing what we can to address the impact of trauma and across cultures and communities, takes a on women, children and youth. certain type of leadership – leadership that is collab- Mary Ellen Turpel-Lafond is BC’s Representative for orative and recognizes the importance of deepening Children and Youth. A judge on our collective approach to the issue of domestic leave from the Saskatchewan violence through partnerships and training. This is Provincial Court, she worked true whether you are a community service provider, a as a criminal law judge in religious organization or a health care provider. youth and adult courts, with Religion is a reality in the lives of many people. an emphasis on developing Through traditions and teachings, religious institutions partnerships to better serve pass on values and beliefs to their members. the needs of young people in Religious leaders may provide guidance or instruction the justice system, particularly to members in a supportive relationship. In the context sexually exploited children of domestic violence, religious teachings and commu- and youth, and children and nities can help to shape the discussion by educating youth with disabilities. and advocating for its end. Clearly, women should feel safe in their religious communities and should not feel shame at any time. REFERENCES They should feel free to reach out for support and 1 Lisak, D., Understanding the Predatory Nature of Sexual services both within the wider secular community Violence, available online at www2.ucsc.edu/rape- and within their faith-based institution. Collaborative prevention/pdfs/PredatoryNature.pdf partnerships between these two communities can 2 SALCO’s historical data from minutes of Advisory committee mean consistent advocacy and support for victims. meeting. In addition, religious students can be trained to identify 3 SALCO/NAAFM functional definition finalized in 2009 as domestic violence and to respond appropriately. documented in the meeting minutes of advisory. 4 Likewise, doctors and other health care providers Forced Marriage report: “Who if when to Marry: could benefit from partnerships with the justice, The incidence of forced marriage in Ontario”. religious and social service systems, and from training 5 Annotated Bibliography on Comparative and International to get better at recognizing and screening for possible Law relating to Forced Marriage;http://www.justice.gc.ca/eng/pi/ signs of domestic violence. Victims of abuse fcy-fea/lib-bib/rep-rap/2007/mar/chap1.html

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BOOK REVIEW

BY NICKI BREUER, ODIN BOOKS

The Body Keeps the Score: Brain, Mind, ing experts in their field are among many supporters and Body in the Healing of Trauma offering high praise for The Body Keeps The Score. And yet, he has as many detractors as supporters. By Basel A. van der Kolk, M.D. In the past twenty plus years, many mental health Paperback, 464 pages professionals have questioned psychiatry’s notion (including biographical that all mental illnesses begin and end from the neck reference and index) up. But how can the brain be independent of the Viking, 1st Edition, body that supports it? Is it possible that ingesting September 8, 2015 psychiatric medications into the body will help, if not ISBN: 9780393706130 heal the mind or will it just mask an array of symp- Retail Price at ODIN toms? It’s complicated. BOOKS $24 As a researcher, van der Kolk has always remained true to himself, determined to follow the science wherever it takes him. A first glance at the contents, including sections on After four decades spent studying and treating EMDR and Yoga in treatment will lead many to trauma and post-traumatic stress, Bessel van der believe his research has been derailed; psychiatry Kolk can rightly consider himself a specialist in the has recognized somatoform disorders as a valid cat- field of trauma. With more than 100 peer-reviewed egory. These methods have been making their way papers on psychological trauma under his belt, he into the collective mainstream; supporting “whole continues his scientific studies, publishing research body” healing is no longer an anomaly. Advocates findings in peer-reviewed scientific journals. believe, quite reasonably, that only by reclaiming their bodies can survivors hope to unlock secrets In 1995 he published Traumatic Stress: The Effects buried within both body and mind. of Overwhelming Experience on Mind, Body, and Society, a text touted as the gold standard, a refer- Divided into five sections, he front-loads the book ence belonging in all academic libraries, and one with a combination of stories and science. It’s not till used in many educational institutions. the fifth section that he offers what he labels “Paths to Recovery.” This section provides ways and means His writing is captivating; he knows how to engage of accessing and finding ways to heal from trauma. his readers. His continuing belief that mind and body are inextricably connected is being embraced in both In reading this book, I found myself highlighting sec- medical and mental health communities. tions with post-it notes in order to re-read them again later. For me, that’s a sign there’s more to be Judith Herman, MD, Clinical Professor of Psychiatry, learned, and it deserves a place on my bookshelf. Harvard Medical School and author of Trauma and Recovery, Daniel J. Siegel, M.D., Clinical Professor of Psychiatry, UCLA School of Medicine, and author of Mindsight and Brainstorm, both considered lead-

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ICAT: BC’S COLLABORATIVE MODEL

BY DEBBY HAMILTON, MANAGER, COMMUNITY COORDINATION FOR WOMEN’S SAFETY AND INTERAGENCY CASE ASSESSMENT TEAMS

ICATs are partnership groups that include criminal coordinating committee supports the work of the justice, child welfare, health, victim service, anti-violence ICAT and can assist in resolving systemic and public and community workers with a collective goal of awareness issues that come to an ICAT’s attention. keeping “highest risk” domestic violence victims, This assistance may come in the form of resources, their children and the community safer. Highest risk, problem solving or ideas for funding. The coordinating in this context, means risk factors are present that committee may assist with or participate in the may indicate the domestic violence may quickly escalate development and delivery of ICAT training to the to a point of serious bodily harm or death. It is crucial community to promote understanding of risk and to recognize that any domestic violence has this explain how to make a referral to the ICAT. potential and it must be responded to and monitored. ICAT informational materials to assist local groups, Within the ICAT model, this goal is achieved by including a brochure, PowerPoint presentation and legally and ethically sharing risk-related information webinar, can be downloaded from endingviolence.org to identify risk and to build a safety net for victims, /prevention-programs/ccws-program/interagency- their children and the community, along with initiating case-assessment-teams-icats/ interventions and monitoring suspects. A principle of ICAT is to keep the victim central to the process and Typically, the ICAT is co-chaired by one police officer to build on the expertise that she has used to keep and one representative from a community-based vic- herself and her children safe in the past. tim assistance program or other victim service pro- gram. The co-chairs regularly update the coordinating committee about overall progress of the ICAT, including the number of ICAT referrals and meetings, trends, successes and obstacles. The ICAT does not disclose any identifying information about cases to the coordinating committee. Domestic violence cases that are suspected as being high risk are referred to the police ICAT contact. Agencies or individuals in the community Debby Hamilton delivers ICAT training, March 2015 who are not ICAT members can still refer cases to the ICAT. The police ICAT contact then circulates the Since 2010, approximately 50 BC communities are victim and suspect names and birthdates for the next either operating or developing ICATs. Community ICAT meeting. If the situation is urgent an emergency Coordination for Women’s Safety (CCWS) responds meeting may be arranged as soon as practicable. to requests from many communities and all regions Individual ICAT members then research their agency of BC to provide training, information, resources and for relevant risk related information about the victim support for ICAT initiatives. and suspect. This information is brought to the ICAT meeting where data is reviewed for presence of the How do ICATs work? 19 risk factors identified in the BC Summary of Generally, an ICAT is a sub-committee of the local Domestic Violence Risk Factors (BCSDVRF). When coordinating initiative, such as the Violence Against the risk level is determined, information sharing Women in Relationships (VAWIR) Committee. The proceeds and a report is created. An enhanced

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safety plan for the victim and a monitoring and support cases, child protection social workers. Some RCMP plan for the suspect is developed. Detachments refer to one or more police officers in a detachment designated to work with domestic ICATs use the BCSDVRF 19 Risk Factors, which is violence cases as a DVU. The DVU may be a part of consistently used among police, child welfare, cor- an HRDVT or an ICAT. Unlike a DVU, an ICAT is not rections and criminal justice partners across BC. an investigative body. This group of indicators are evidence based, but these factors do not operate as a checklist. Local domestic violence-related coordinating com- Professional judgment, and consideration and mittees include a broad range of service providers knowledge of domestic violence are required of the and responders to domestic violence. These com- ICAT members to carefully consider the risk factors mittees identify and address service gaps and safety in the context of victim and suspect vulnerabilities. needs, using a strategic planning model. Networking, training and information sharing is part Victims of domestic violence, their children, of a typical agenda, but information about specific extended family, workplaces, the community and cases is not shared. suspects are kept safer by providing comprehensive safety plans that include mental health and practical Who funds ICATs? support and monitoring to the suspect. The Ministry of Justice’s Community Safety and Children, new partners, extended family, workplace Crime Prevention Branch, Ministry of Children and colleagues and pets are vulnerable to harm when there Family Development and RCMP have all provided is a high risk of domestic violence. Their safety is taken grant funding to support communities building into consideration during the review and monitoring. collaborations and ICATs. This has resulted in the identification and publishing of best practices, and How are ICATs different from DVUs, increased CCWS’ capacity to train and support HRDVs or Coordinating Committees? communities and address other critical needs that The sole purpose of an ICAT is to increase safety arise. However, communities continue to operate and reduce harm that results from domestic ICATs within their existing mandates and acknowledge violence. Domestic Violence Units (DVUs), Highest that this creates a strain for individuals and organizations. Risk Domestic Violence Teams (HRDVT), and local EVA BC and other agencies continue to seek domestic violence coordination committees are opportunities to build capacity for support agencies. efforts that help communities respond effectively to domestic violence. They are each different in their Why did ICAT start? makeup and function, but they complement one The need for an information sharing and risk identification another and add strength to the local domestic mechanism was identified by the North Okanagan violence response. Violence Against Women in Relationships Committee HRDVTs are usually comprised of partnerships in 2008 and was funded to research and develop a between police, child welfare, victim services and protocol and practices by the Ministry of Justice. In Community Corrections. They are governed by police February 2010, the first ICAT case was reviewed. detachments and focus primarily on investigation and Since that time, almost 650 cases have been intervention after a police report. Domestic violence reviewed by 25 ICATs that were surveyed. These 650 cases reviewed by an HRDVT do not necessarily cases kept 1,701 people safer through enhanced need to be designated Highest Risk, however the risk safety plans, including 662 children. In the cases factors present will be identified and assessed. reviewed, less that 7% of the children were taken into A DVU may be an integrated unit within a police care by child welfare agencies and fewer than 5% detachment/department consisting of police, cases had further episodes of violence. There was a community-based victim services and, in some dramatic drop in breaches of protection orders.

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Why can we share information? Prevention Division of the Ministry of Justice. This Simply put, life trumps privacy. Privacy laws meeting brought together the expertise of teams in limit situations in which someone’s personal BC that were collaborating to review highest information can be shared, but they allow per- risk domestic violence. The meeting identified best sonal information to be disclosed in the public practices related to safety, privacy and records interest or where compelling circumstances management and resulted in a set of best practices exist that affect anyone’s health or safety. to support teams. Personal information can also be disclosed Research Project to assist in a police investigation or in making a As ICATs develop, members are reporting clear decision to start an investigation. benefits to highest-risk domestic violence victims The provincial Freedom of Information and and to the practice of collaborative justice. However, Protection of Privacy Act specifically permits release all outcome information so far is anecdotal or in the of personal information if disclosure is for the form of basic summary data. purpose of reducing the risk of domestic violence if In 2015, EVA BC embarked on the ICAT Research domestic violence is reasonably likely to occur. This Project in partnership with the FREDA Centre for amendment was enacted in the aftermath of the Research on Violence Against Women and Children. Peter Lee domestic violence murders and suicide This project is funded by the Law Foundation of BC where a perceived inability to share risk-related and is governed by an oversight committee com- information between sectors was identified as a prised of stakeholders and subject matter experts. systemic problem needing to be addressed to The results from the research will evolve and prevent more domestic violence homicides. become evident over the next two years. A legacy Why should we share information? benefit and outcome would be the creation of stan- Sharing information appropriately within an ICAT dardized data collection tools and a process for col- can save lives. Risk management is the process of lection that will serve BC for years to come. managing the risks that are identified in a risk Future of ICATs in BC assessment. Risk management generally includes As the groundswell of ICATs continues to grow in both victim and perpetrator factors, as well as BC, benefits are realized and challenges emerge. community vulnerability factors that may affect the Significant workload pressures are stretching the safety of victims, their children or others, including capacity of coordinating agencies, there is a need the perpetrator. for records management standards and the ICAT Best Practices Guidelines demand for training continues to translate into an As ICATs developed from grassroots community ongoing waitlist. initiatives, members saw clear benefits to high-risk Despite these obstacles, ICAT member agencies are domestic violence victims and to the agencies enthusiastic and see results from their efforts. In involved. At the same time, there was a wide addition to the safety benefits for highest risk variation in practice and concerns about that women and their children, enhanced relationships of lack of consistency, common understanding and trust and camaraderie are reported amongst the uniform practice. ICAT members. In response to these concerns, the Ending Violence Association of BC’s CCWS program hosted a round- table in 2013 funded by the RCMP’s Family Violence Initiative and the Victim Services and Crime

PAGE 14 EVA BC NEWSLETTER / FALL 2015 NEWS FROM AROUND BC

Walking With Our Sisters Events in Powell River Create Memorial Exhibition Public Awareness CONTRIBUTED BY ANNE DAVIS, PROGRAM COORDINATOR, CONTRIBUTED BY MAUREEN MACLENNAN, STV COMOX VALLEY TRANSITION SOCIETY OUTREACH COORDINATOR, POWELL RIVER TRANSITION HOUSE SOCIETY Courtenay was the only BC stop this past summer for the Walking With Our Sisters memorial exhibit Plans are underway to hold Powell River’s first that honours the more than 1,181 missing and murdered Purple Lights Night event this winter, as well as the Indigenous women and girls in Canada and the annual Shoe Memorial on December 6th. The Shoe United States. The K’ómoks First Nation, I-Hos Memorial is a moving tribute to women and children Gallery, and Comox Valley Transition Society each who have lost their lives to domestic violence and provided a lead coordinator for this collaborative the Powell River event involves local partners Police- effort that involved 400 volunteers who carried out a Based Victim Services and the RCMP. STV number of events to raise awareness and build com- Outreach has also been connecting with the local munity throughout the year leading up to the event. Association for Community Living and will be participating The memorial exhibit was hosted at the K’ómoks in that agency’s yearly “Festival of Trees” event, First Nation Band Hall from July 31 to August 15. which falls in the middle of the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender Violence, making it a great violence Tsow-Tun Le Lum Recovery Centre from Nanoose awareness activity. sent teams of elders each day the memorial was open to provide cultural services including cedar The STV Outreach cell phone collection program is brushing for those who were emotionally impacted in full swing. Ads to request drop offs were placed in by visiting the memorial. 4,431 visitors went through the local newspaper with great response. The furni- the exhibit – an astonishing number for a community ture program to support women has been going of our size. through some changes because the space we’ve used is being renovated for a new library. Plans are Those involved are choosing a new name and will in the works to join forces with the local Mennonite continue to work together to continue the rela- thrift store when a woman is leaving either her home tionships and the momentum of Walking With Our or the transition house and needs to replenish her Sisters. This work will be carried out under the household furnishings, dishes and the like. Also, umbrella of Comox Valley Transition Society. STV Outreach and PBVS are connecting to organize a ‘Walk A Mile In Her Shoes’ event for the spring. Documentary Profiles Successful Fundraiser MZ Judged CONTRIBUTED BY JASON JAMES, STRENGTHENING FAMILIES COORDINATOR, NORTHERN SOCIETY FOR DOMESTIC PEACE The Mz Judged Documentary tells the story of a small rural town raising awareness and funds in a unique way that gets the whole community involved. What started in 2008 as a fundraiser in Prince Rupert for the North Coast Transition L-R: Christina Entrekin Coad from EVA BC, Anne Davis and Society is now a full-fledged fundraising extrava- Gladys Osawamick from Comox Valley Transition Society.

PAGE 15 EVA BC NEWSLETTER / FALL 2015 ganza in other rural BC communities. Last year, EVA BC Meet and Greet the Northern Society for Domestic Peace raised On September 24th, EVA BC hosted a “Meet and over $50,000 through this event to fund the Greet” brunch for member programs in the Lower delivery of a voluntary men’s program. Mainland to learn about their current needs and The documentary is intended for TV broadcast to concerns, and to update them on EVA BC’s activities. further raise awareness and funds towards Everyone in attendance participated in an excellent programs that address violence against women. It is dialogue about challenges and issues programs our hope to inspire other towns to take on their own are facing. Mz Judged event and provide local support to programs to end violence against women. View the trailer at www.mzjudged.com

CFL Violence Against Women Policy On August 6th, the Canadian Football League on prevention, education and response to violence. announced its first Policy on Violence Against The policy applies to all CFL employees including Women at a media conference at BC Place players, coaches, officials, executives and staff. All Stadium. CFL Commissioner Jeffrey Orridge, along will receive annual mandatory training on violence with a host of dignitaries that included Tracy against women and the issues surrounding it. With Porteous, EVA BC Executive Director & Chair of the policy endorsed by the CFL Board of the Ending Violence Association of Canada (EVA Governors, the league’s teams will work with the CAN); the Honourable Stephanie Cadieux, Minister league office and EVA CAN to identify the right of Children and Family Development; and BC Lions regional experts to provide training, assessment President and CEO Dennis Skulsky. and counselling services. The CFL developed their policy in partnership with The development of the CFL policy can be traced the Ending Violence Association of Canada, follow- back to the incredible success of EVA BC’s Be ing consultations with a number of women who are More Than a Bystander initiative launched in 2011 experts in the anti-violence field. It focuses in partnership with the BC Lions.

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TRAINING, PROJECTS & PARTNERSHIPS

Be More Than a Bystander Western Canada Sexual Assault This year’s football season marked the 5th year of Initiative Be More Than a Bystander. It continues to be a huge We are now in the second year of the Western success on all fronts, with its total publicity reach Canadian Sexual Assault Initiative. In our first year of now surpassing 137 million impressions and a the project, we conducted a gender-based needs hugely successful youth education program that has assessment to identify needs and gaps in relation to connected BC Lions in person with over 64,000 responding to sexual assault. Three priorities for the youth throughout the province. project include updating the sexual assault anti- Lots of work has been going into creating sustain- violence worker handbook, creating sexual assault ability for the program, so we’re happy to report tip sheets based on best practices, and developing there is more Be More Than a Bystander coming in sexual assault policy and protocol guidelines for the years ahead! On April 24th, the Ministry of universities and colleges. Children and Family Development announced their Sexual Assault: Anti-Violence Worker Handbook continuing support for the youth education compo- We are very excited to be updating the Sexual nent of Be More Than a Bystander, pledging Assault: Anti-Violence Worker Handbook, which was $480,000 for the next three years. last revised in 2007. The updates will reflect changes More recently, Status of Women Canada committed in policy, legislation, and best practices, as well as funding over the next two years to support the recent developments in our understanding of the engagement of whole communities throughout the dynamics and impacts of sexual assault and how province, especially remote, rural and Indigenous best to respond to sexual violence. communities and those identified with high rates of Sexual Assault Tip Sheets vulnerable youth populations. Using interactive technology We are in the process of developing sexual assault is one of the ways we plan to connect with people in disclosure response tip sheets tailored to various remote areas as we deliver the Be More Than a sectors (e.g., police, Crown, sheriffs, physicians, Bystander message and work to foster community nurses, paramedics, high schools, universities). Our leadership and engage local governments. goal in sharing best practices for responding to sexual assault disclosures with members of other sectors who interact survivors on a regular basis is to improve the response of every system and improve the experience of sexual assault survivors as they navigate through a variety of systems. Sexual Assault Policy and Protocol Guidelines for Universities and Colleges In order to support campus communities in developing and strengthening their response to campus sexual assault, we are developing a set of sexual assault policy and protocol guidelines for universities and colleges. The guidelines will aim to support the Field signs are viewed by thousands of people at every game, development and revision of policies and protocols, in stadium and on television. outline the various reporting options (including Third

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Party Reporting) and services (including community- • Stop alleged abusive partners from exploiting based anti-violence services) available to survivors, police resources to find and gain access to provide guidance around confidentiality and information women fleeing abusive relationships. sharing, and highlight the critical components of • Create a bridge between women-serving campus sexual assault training and education. agencies that provide confidential services to women fleeing violence and police investigating Indigenous Communities a missing person report. Safety Project Participation in the network is optional for all We bid a fond farewell this past summer to the service providers and the women they serve. For ISCP’s consultant, Bev Jacobs. Colleagues and more information, contact EVA BC’s Program friends gathered at the EVA BC offices on August Manager, Laura Woods at 604-633-2506 ext. 17 or 12th to honour Bev and express thanks for both her at [email protected]. friendship and her accomplishments on behalf of the Indigenous Communities Safety Project. Canadian Domestic Homicide Prevention Initiative for Vulnerable Since its inception, the ISCP has delivered its Knowledge Sharing Workshop in over 23 BC Populations (CDHPIVP) Indigenous communities, which were followed by the EVA BC is one of more than 40 community service development of community safety plans. In August, organizations, government departments, and univer- a group of ISCP training facilitators from around the sities who have joined together to better understand province met with Bev and EVA BC/CCWS staff to and address domestic homicide through the creation plan for the project’s next steps. of the Canadian Domestic Homicide Prevention Initiative for Vulnerable Population (CDHPIVP). EVA BC Missing Women Response BC is a key project partner on this 5-year project, Network and will be working closely with researchers and other partners from across the country, including the A new, province-wide BC Missing Women Response FREDA Centre for Research on Violence Against Network was launched on October 28, 2015. It is a Women and Children (Simon Fraser University). partnership between EVA BC, the RCMP “E” Division’s BC Missing Persons Centre and the Surrey This national, collaborative project will involve the Women’s Centre. This network is an outgrowth of a development of a national domestic homicide data- successful pilot project developed by the Surrey base, and research related to domestic violence risk Women’s Centre that established a communication assessment, risk management, and safety planning system between law enforcement and victim services with vulnerable populations. Four vulnerable groups in their community to help locate missing women and that are at higher risk for domestic homicide and/or to keep them safe, while respecting their privacy. experience various barriers to accessing services were selected for the project: (1) Aboriginal populations; The primary purposes of the BC Missing Women (2) immigrant and refugee populations; (3) rural, Network are to: remote, and Northern populations; and (4) children • Locate women and children who have exposed to domestic violence. The research will experienced, or are at risk of experiencing, identify unique risk factors for each of these vulnerable violence that could result in serious bodily harm populations with the goal of enhancing evidence- or death. based information about effective risk assessment, • Protect the anonymity and whereabouts of risk management, and safety planning strategies to women and children who are fleeing violence, prevent lethal domestic violence for these groups particularly in cases where their estranged partner and their communities. or other extended family reports them as missing.

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EVA BC and the Community Coordination for provided to assist provincial Directors of Practice Women’s Safety (CCWS) have developed and from MCFD in understanding the information sharing, supported the maintenance of Interagency Case ICAT process, risk factors and ethics around victim Assessment Teams (ICATs) in communities across and offender support and privacy. the province since 2001, with funding from the ICAT Safety Planning and Risk Assessment Ministry of Justice and Ministry of Children and Training (Langley; March 11, 2015): At the request Family Development. These cross-sectoral partner- of PODV, delivered ICAT Training in Langley primarily ships, involving police, child welfare, health, social for MCFD, RCMP, DAAs, Community Corrections service, victim support, and other anti-violence agencies, and Aboriginal Services Agencies. work together to undertake risk assessment, risk management, and safety planning in highest risk Increasing Safety: Moving VAWIR Forward in the cases of domestic violence. EVA BC’s experience Lakes District (Burns Lake; March 12, 2015): and expertise in the areas of risk assessment, risk CCWS facilitated session to assist with reviving and management, and safety planning will be invaluable refocusing the VAWIR Committee. to the work of the CDHPIVP, and will improve domestic Supporting Victims and Risk Management homicide prevention efforts for those vulnerable (Kelowna; March 12, 2015): This half-day presentation, populations that are the focus of this work. focused on supporting victims during the risk management process, was delivered during a B- Safer training by Randy Kropp. Northwest Regional ICAT Training (March 2-6, 2015): ICAT training was delivered in several COMMUNITY COORDINATION for Women’s Safety Northwest communities that included Smithers, Gitxsan Territory, Terrace, Prince Rupert, communities CCWS helps BC communities develop new models from Haisla Territory – Kitimat and Kitamaat Village; and improving existing models of cross-sector and Nisga’a Territory – Gitwinksihlkw, Gingolx, coordination on violence against women. Learn Gitlaxt’aamiks and Laxgalts’ap. more at www.endingviolence.org/ccws. Risk and Safety Planning (Clearwater Hospital, Coordination Initiative Capacity April 16, 2015): Short presentation at the Building Highlights Clearwater Hospital with doctors and School District personnel. The purpose of the presentation was to The first half of 2015 was incredibly busy for the give context to the Summary of DV Risk Factors so CCWS team as they supported coordination efforts that the participants had a broader understanding of in communities throughout the province and delivered what to look for with their patients or students. the following training sessions: ICAT Safety Planning and Risk Identification VAWIR/ ICAT (Vancouver; January 14, 2015): (Bella Coola; April 27, 2015): This training was Half-day ICAT overview presentation was delivered delivered to 22 participants that included representatives to the VAWIR Committee. from Nuxalk Health, Elders, RCMP, Mental Health VAWIR/ ICAT (Coquitlam, Port Coquitlam, and Addictions, MCFD, STV Outreach, CBVS, Port Moody; January 22, 2015): Half-day Transition House (on Reserve), Youth Mental Health, ICAT overview presentation was delivered to School District and CWWA. the Tri-Cities VAWIR Committee. ICAT Risk Identification, Management and ICAT Safety Planning and Risk Assessment Information Sharing (Duncan; June 8, 2015): The (MCFD; January 26 & 27, 2015): Delivered two-day focus of this ICAT refresher training was on com- ICAT training to Ministry of Children and Family plicated information sharing, multiple case studies Development Directors of Practice. This training was and ensuring all relevant partners are at the table.

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Developing a Collaborative Response to Sexual Assault (Golden; June 18 & 19, 2015): A 2-day training on sexual violence and developing a coordi- nated response was delivered to 23 participants from several sectors. Safe Choices Support and Education Program ICAT Safety Planning and Risk Identification (Sea to focuses on improving the health and safety of Sky – Whistler/Pemberton/Squamish; June 22, 2015): LGBT2SQ (lesbian, gay, bisexual, trans*, Two-Spirit A half-day ICAT refresher training was provided to 25 and queer) women who are currently or have been in ICAT members from Pemberton, Squamish and Whistler. abusive same-sex/gender relationships and preventing ICAT Safety Planning and Risk Identification (Tri relationship violence. Safe Choices works by providing Cities – Coquitlam, Port Coquitlam, Port Moody; information and tools in the form of community work- June 23, 2015): 50 participants covered information shops that encourage healthy relationships, as well sharing, identifying risk factors and creating compre- as delivering educational workshops that focus on hensive risk management plans. LGBT2SQ women’s experiences, for those who work in anti-violence, victims services, social services and ICAT Safety Planning and Risk Identification health care settings. (Sunshine Coast – Sechelt, Robert’s Creek, Gibsons; June 24, 2015): This one-day ICAT work- The Safe Choices program has delivered several shop was presented to over 50 participants. workshops this fall, including Healthy Relationships workshops at BOLDFest 2015 and UBC Consent VAWIR Launch Day (Agassiz, April 23, 2015): Week, and Service Provider workshops at Hollyburn CCWS was invited by Hope and Area Transition Family Services and at the Together! BC Society to speak at the VAWIR Launch day in Collaborates to Stop Sexual & Domestic Violence Agassiz for the Fraser Cascade area coordination multi-sector training forum. Please contact us if you initiative. Over 50 representatives from the Upper would like to arrange a workshop for your staff, Fraser Valley Region attended. volunteers, and/or partners in a Vancouver Coastal West Kootenay Regional VAWIR/ICAT – for Trail, Health service area! Castlegar and Nelson (Castlegar; June 15 & 16, The Safe Choices program is also recruiting new 2015): 60 participants attended this two-day work- Advisory Committee members and workshop facilitators. shop that reviewed and updated the purpose, princi- Please contact Kate Rossiter, Program Coordinator, ples and best practices of both the VAWIR initiatives if you are interested in joining the Advisory and their offspring, the ICATs. Committee or know someone in the Lower Mainland Joint Training Forum 2015 Workshops who would be a great workshop facilitator. We also invite you to ‘like’ the Safe Choices Facebook page CCWS is participating in a keynote panel and delivering (see link below) and support our work! two workshops at this year’s training forum, “Together! BC Collaborates to Stop Sexual & Domestic Violence.” For the Safe Choices workshop schedule, check the This year’s forum is a collaboration between Ending Calendar of Events on the EVA BC website at Violence Association of BC, BC Society of Transition www.endingviolence.org or visit the Safe Choices Houses, BC Association of Chiefs of Police, RCMP, page at http://endingviolence.org/safe_choices. You Police Victim Services and the Province of BC: can also find us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/ • Panel Discussion – Information Sharing in High SafeChoicesProgram. Risk Cases Contact Kate Rossiter, Safe Choices Program • Interagency Case Assessment Teams: Working Coordinator, by email at [email protected] Together to Reduce the Impact of Domestic Violence or by telephone at 604.633.2506 ext. 12. • Increasing Safety: Collaborative Risk Management for Domestic Violence Prevention

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EVA BC STAFF UPDATE

Thank you, Bev! Welcome, Christina Entrekin Coad!

As many of you know, Bev Jacobs has been the Christina joined EVA BC in July as our Manager of Indigenous Communities’ Safety Project Consultant Training and Policy and as Coordinator of the since its inception. It has been our pleasure to have Indigenous Communities Safety Project. the chance to work with Bev. As some of you may Immediately prior to her position with EVA BC, recall, Beverley’s Mohawk name is Gowehgyuseh Christina was Director of Advocacy with the Office of and means “she is visiting.” Thanks for visiting the BC Representative for Children and Youth. us, Bev! Welcome, Christina!

Welcome, Brooke McLardy! Welcome, Mona Chan!

EVA BC and CCWS are very pleased to welcome Mona Chan brings over 10 years work experience to her job Brooke McLardy to our staff team as a CCWS Regional as EVA BC’s Administrative Assistant. Born in Hong Kong, Coordinator. Brooke brings nine years experience in the she also brings her proficiency in two languages, Cantonese anti-violence field to her position. She most recently and English. After a number of years in the corporate and worked as Community Programs Director for Vernon financial sectors, Mona decided to seek out more meaningful Women’s Transition House Society. Welcome, Brooke! work in the non-profit sector. Welcome, Mona!

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Announcements

EVA Notes Launched EVA BC is proud to announce the recent launch of a new monthly service to our member programs – EVA Notes: A recurring series of notes on gender-based violence. EVA Notes will be a series of two-page briefing notes intended to inform and direct anti-violence workers on timely and complex issues. Please contact EVA BC Program Manager Laura Woods at [email protected] with your suggestions for future issues.

Proposed Changes to Residential Tenancy Act Earlier this year, EVA BC participated in a consultation convened by the Residential Tenancy Branch about creating changes to accommodate women impacted by domestic violence. The BC Government now has pro- posed legislation in the works that would allow women fleeing domestic violence to break fixed term tenancies. EVA BC is advocating that this accommodation be extended to include survivors of sexual assault.

Upcoming Events 2015

November 20 – Transgender Day of Remembrance November 25 – International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women November 25 to December 10 – 16 Days of Activism Against Gender Violence December 1 – World AIDS Day December 3 – International Day of Persons with Disabilities December 6 – National Day of Remembrance and Action on Violence Against Women December 10 – Human Rights Day

EVA BC Resources

All EVA BC resources are available on our website at endingviolence.org/research-publications/

What is New with ICAT? – EVA Notes, October 2015 issue.

New BC Missing Women Network – EVA Notes, November 2015 issue.

ICAT Best Practices Guide – Released in July 2015, this guide has been distributed to a variety of stakeholders, including ICATs that received training and Community-Based Victim Services in communities with an ICAT. It is available in e-version and a limited number of print copies are also being distributed to ICAT members at trainings.

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EVA BC BOARD OF DIRECTORS

REGION 1 – NORTH VANCOUVER ISLAND REGION 6 – OKANAGAN– VACANT REGION 11 – NORTH EAST Isabel McKinnon Donalda Beeson Community Based Victim Assistance Program REGION 7 – EAST KOOTENAYS Stopping the Violence Counselling Program/ Comox Valley Family Services Association Lendina Bambrick Robson Valley Support Society 1415 Cliffe Ave, Courtenay, BC V9N 2K6 STV Outreach Program Box 430, 942 – 3rd Avenue, McBride, BC V0J 2E0 Work Phone: 250-338-7575 ext. 224 Kootenai Community Centre Society Work Phone: 250-569-2266 (McBride) Fax: 250-338-7601 Box 237, Creston, BC V0B 1G0 Fax 250-569-2200 Work Email: [email protected] Work Phone: 250-402-0068 250-566-9107 (Valemount) Fax: 250-402-0067 Work Email: [email protected] REGION 2 – SOUTH VANCOUVER ISLAND Work Email: [email protected] Cathy Welch, Co-Chair FLOATING SEAT – VACANT STV Counselling Program REGION 8 – WEST KOOTENAYS Cowichan Women Against Violence Society Ernestine (Ernie) Wood SPECIAL ADVISOR 103 – 255 Ingram Street, Duncan, BC V9L 1P3 STV Outreach Program Irene Willsie Work Phone: 250-748-7000 ext 223 Nelson Community Services Centre Society Stopping the Violence Counselling Program Fax: 250-748-9364 201 – 518 Lake Street, Nelson, BC V1L 4C6 Contact Women’s Group Society Work Email: [email protected] Work Phone: 250-352-3504 ext 227 P.O. Box 4094, Williams Lake, BC V2G 2V2 Fax: 250-352-3750 Work Phone:250-392-4118 REGION 3 – LOWER MAINLAND Work Email: [email protected] Fax: 250-392-4145 Carol Martin Work Email:[email protected] Community Based Victim Assistance Program REGION 9 – NORTH WEST Downtown Eastside Women’s Centre Cheryl Rumley 302 Columbia Street, Vancouver, BC V6A 4J1 STV Counselling Program/STV Outreach Program Work Phone: 604-681-8480 ext. 233 Tamitik Status of Women Association Fax: 604-681-8470 350 – 370 City Centre, Kitimat BC V8C 1T6 Work Email: [email protected]; Work Phone: 250-632-8787 [email protected] Fax: 250-632-2022 Work Email:[email protected] REGION 4 – FRASER VALLEY – VACANT REGION 10 – NORTH CENTRAL REGION 5 – INTERIOR Bally Bassi, Co-Chair Jan Seelinger Community Based Victim Assistance Program / Community Based Victim Services Stopping the Violence Counselling Program/ Shuswap Area Family Emergency (SAFE) Society STV Outreach Program P.O. Box 1463, Salmon Arm, BC V1E 4P6 Prince George & District Elizabeth Fry Society Work Phone: 250-832-0005 1575 – Fifth Avenue, Prince George, BC V2L 3L9 Fax: 250-832-0037 Work Phone: 250-563-1113 ext 108 Work Email: [email protected] Fax 250-563-8765 (WORKS FULL TIME) Work Email: [email protected] (WORKS FULL TIME – ALTERNATE FRIDAYS OFF)

EVA BC STAFF COMMUNITY COORDINATION Tracy Porteous Christina Entrekin Coad FOR WOMEN’S SAFETY Executive Director Training & Policy Manager and PROGRAM [email protected] Indigenous Communities Safety Debby Hamilton (Contact for all programs) Project Coordinator Manager, CCWS & ICAT • Vernon [email protected] Habiba Rashid [email protected] • 778-475-6164 Office Manager Nancy Boyce Gail Edinger [email protected] Communications Manager Regional Coordinator • 100 Mile House [email protected] Laura Woods [email protected] • 250-397-2389 Program Manager Jessica Lee Brooke McLardy [email protected] Program Administrator Regional Coordinator • Vernon (Contact for CBVS, STV Counselling [email protected] [email protected] • 250-540-7528 and STV/Multicultural Outreach Mona Chan Programs) Morgen Baldwin Administrative Assistant Regional Coordinator (contracted) Kate Rossiter [email protected] [email protected] • 250-631-7897 Research & Projects Manager and Safe Choices Program Coordinator Gisela Ruebsaat [email protected] Legal Analyst (contracted) • Victoria [email protected] [email protected] • 250-592-6073

PAGE 23 EVA BC NEWSLETTER / SPRING 2015