Message of Solidarity: Surge of Intimate Partner Violence-Related Deaths in NS
Wellness Within extends its heartfelt support to families and communities affected by recent tragedies resulting from Intimate Partner Violence (IPV) here in Nova Scotia. The prevalence of IPV in Nova Scotia is long known by advocacy groups and has been recognized by the provincial government as an epidemic. The recent surge in deaths shows that there is much work left to be done.
We commend and stand in solidarity with the family of Brenda Tatlock-Burke as they have become fierce advocates in identifying Brenda's death as being the result of IPV. The partners of people who are currently or previously employed by police forces face even more complex barriers when it comes to navigating IPV. Wellness Within recognizes the need to acknowledge the power dynamic and the implications of Brenda’s husband being an ex-RCMP officer. We share the family’s frustration in the way the RCMP failed to do this when first reporting on the case.
As participants in the Mass Casualty Commission proceedings alongside Avalon Sexual Assault Centre and the Women’s Legal Education and Action Fund (LEAF), Wellness Within stresses that implementing the recommendations outlined by the commission is crucial to ending gender-based violence and improving gender equality. The Commission does well to reject a focus on carceral responses to gender-based violence, which have been shown to be ineffective and harmful.
There are times when people feel unable to report instances of IPV, and do not feel like telling police will keep them safe. Wellness Within calls on the government of Nova Scotia to invest in and support community organizations and advocacy groups that help to support survivors. Collective action is needed to create systemic change and a culture of safety and empowerment for those experiencing intimate partner violence.
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Wellness Within is a volunteer-based registered non-profit organization that serves women, transgender, and nonbinary people who have experienced criminalization and are pregnant or have young children in Nova Scotia, part of the unceded and unsurrendered ancestral territory of the Mi'kmaq people.
Wellness Within supports people through the full spectrum of reproductive health experience; facilitates workshops and education sessions; develops resource materials; and advocates for reproductive justice issues.
Contact: Natasha Hines, Chair, (902)717-2956 or natasha_hines@outlook.com, and Dr. Martha Paynter, Director of Research, 902-292-7082 or martha.paynter@gmail.com