Excerpt
This research explores the experiences of Inuit women and girls affected by gender-based violence. Grounded in community perspectives and lived experience, the report examines barriers, supports, and opportunities for strengthening safety, wellbeing, and healing while contributing to broader conversations about violence prevention and community-led responses.
Summary
Gender-based violence in Nunavut is connected to colonization, housing shortages, family and community disruption, limited services, and other systemic conditions. This report draws on the experiences of 126 participants from all three regions of Nunavut. Participants described violence as cumulative and relational, not only as isolated incidents.
Disability and mental health barriers can increase a person’s risk of violence and can also result from violence. Survivors may face isolation, stigma, dependence, and difficulty reaching safe, trustworthy services.
The report calls for Inuit-led, culturally grounded, disability-informed, and trauma-aware responses. It emphasizes accessible services, language and cultural safety, community accountability, and sustained investment in community-driven prevention and healing.