MPP Sattler calls for Gender-Based Violence prevention tool in postsecondary institutions

QUEEN’S PARK – MPP Peggy Sattler, NDP critic for Colleges and Universities, tabled a motion today to bring back a tool to help tackle gender-based violence in postsecondary institutions, as part of the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence.

“Postsecondary students in Ontario experience gender-based and sexual violence at an alarmingly high rate,” said Sattler. “Addressing sexual violence through both prevention efforts and evidence-based support and resources for survivors is absolutely critical to making sure every student can thrive in our schools.”

Sattler’s motion calls for the return of the Student Voices on Sexual Violence Survey, a survey that was conducted once before Ford took office in 2018, and hasn’t been repeated since. The lack of data gathered makes it difficult for schools to know whether measures that have been put in place on campus are making a difference, and what gaps exist for ensuring student safety.

“Solutions can only be effective if they’re based on a robust understanding of what students are experiencing,” said Sattler. “College and university campuses are very diverse, and they’re ever-changing. We need to keep renewing our data on sexual violence so that our solutions can evolve, and so that we know what’s working and what isn’t working to reduce sexual violence.

“This is an incredibly important tool to implement. Let’s get moving on this today.”

Motion

That, in the opinion of this House, the Ministry of Colleges and Universities should regularly gather information and publicly report on students’ attitudes, beliefs and experiences related to sexual violence by implementing the Student Voices on Sexual Violence survey in all Ontario colleges, universities and private colleges at least every three years, following consultation with students, gender-based violence educators and experts on updates or additions to the survey questions, and allocate resources to act on the survey findings and ensure annual gender-based violence prevention and response training on campus.

Additional quotes

Ontario Undergraduate Student Alliance

"When the Student Voices on Sexual Violence Survey was first distributed in 2018, it provided important insight on the climate of gender-based and sexual violence on Ontario’s campuses. This data has been used to inform policy recommendations, drive targeted interventions at specific institutions, and most importantly, develop solutions to protect students. Gender-based and sexual violence is already an under-reported issue which is why collecting this information is crucial. It results in quantifiable evidence that can bridge the gap between lived experiences and policy changes to keep students safe."

College Student Alliance

"The Student Voices on Sexual Violence Survey was conducted only once in 2018, where less than half of college students reported having knowledge of institutional supports, services, and reporting procedures. While valuable, a single survey over six years is insufficient for addressing this issue' said Olivia Villeneuve of the College Student Alliance."

Alex Oestreicher, Ontario Student Voices

"We need concrete data to drive real change. The importance of data cannot be underestimated in our work to support student mental health and wellness on campus, this survey ensures we’re putting the well being of students as a first priority."

Cyrielle Ngeleka, Canadian Federation of Students, Ontario

“It’s no secret that sexual violence continues to be an issue on campuses across the province. The implementation of a reoccurring survey is a first step to improving sexual violence education, resources and supports that are survivor centric.”