Law P-22.1, enacted to combat sexual violence (VACS) in post-secondary institutions, has been praised for its intersectional approach and its efforts to protect vulnerable populations. However, a closer examination reveals that certain communities, particularly Indigenous populations, remain largely marginalized in its application and support measures.
Un manque de reconnaissance des réalités autochtones
The Rebuilding Trust report highlights the importance of considering cultural and historical differences in addressing sexual violence. It states that “issues of violence among Indigenous peoples must be understood within a historical and social perspective, as these factors have played a determining role in the adoption of violent behaviours.”
Moreover, Indigenous women are disproportionately affected by sexual victimization. According to the report’s statistics, sexual violence accounts for 33% of crimes committed against Indigenous women, compared to just 10% for non-Indigenous women. This disparity underscores the urgent need for measures tailored to Indigenous realities.
Despite this, specific recommendations for these populations remain scarce in Law P-22.1.
Institutional Gaps
Post-secondary institutions in Quebec, which are primarily located in urban areas, often fail to consider the unique challenges faced by Indigenous students when implementing their institutional policies. The distance from their families, linguistic and cultural barriers, and a lack of familiarity with non-Indigenous systems further exacerbate their vulnerability.
Additionally, the current judicial approach, which requires survivors to file a complaint against their aggressor, can trigger historical and intergenerational trauma for Indigenous communities. As emphasized in the Rebuilding Trust report (Corte and Desrosiers, 2020), it is essential to integrate holistic policies that align with Indigenous values and customs.
Best Practices and Existing Resources
Some initiatives illustrate successful models of best practices. The First Peoples’ Centre at Dawson College, for example, provides culturally sensitive support tailored to the realities of Indigenous students. Its team, composed of Indigenous professionals, offers culturally adapted assistance that considers social, economic, and historical challenges.
Other noteworthy initiatives include:
- The First Nations Support Program at Cégep de l’Abitibi-Témiscamingue, which aims to provide tailored support to reduce dropout rates among Indigenous youth.
- Indigenous Friendship Centres in various regions of Quebec, which offer psychosocial and cultural support services for Indigenous students and families living in urban areas.
- The Quebec Indigenous Health Network, which provides training to raise awareness among social and medical service professionals about the specific needs of Indigenous communities.
Recommendations for Greater Inclusion
Afin de pallier ces lacunes, il est donc nécessaire de :
To address these gaps, the following measures should be implemented:
- Develop specific training programs for professionals on Indigenous realities, including historical, social, and cultural issues.
- Establish culturally adapted psychosocial support services, such as peer groups or services provided by professionals from Indigenous communities.
- Adopt a holistic and inclusive approach, ensuring that the services offered to students align with their customs and values.
- Improve access to resources by supporting and drawing inspiration from initiatives like Dawson College’s First Peoples’ Centre.
- Develop partnerships with Indigenous community members to co-create policies and practices that respect local customs.
- Increase funding for existing programs to ensure their sustainability and expansion in other post-secondary institutions.
Law P-22.1 represents an important step in the fight against sexual violence, but it does not fully address the needs of Indigenous populations. By recognizing the unique realities of these communities and integrating tailored practices, we can create a more equitable and respectful environment for all.
The YWCA Montreal Support Program
The YWCA Montreal supports post-secondary institutions in implementing Law P-22.1. This support includes awareness workshops, specialized training on issues related to sexual violence, and a resource directory for professionals working with marginalized communities, including Indigenous populations.
The YWCA leverages its recognized expertise to promote an inclusive and intersectional approach, which is essential in meeting the diverse needs of survivors.
