The government of Nova Scotia is inviting applications from individuals with personal, professional, or community-based experience in addressing gender-based violence to join a new ministers' table. This initiative aims to create a crucial platform for community voices, particularly those who have firsthand experience with gender-based violence.
The ministers' table will be co-led by Justice Minister Becky Druhan and Leah Martin, who holds a position responsible for the Advisory Council on the Status of Women. Together, they will bring together up to 25 community members who can provide valuable insights and advice to the government in efforts to prevent, address, and respond to gender-based violence effectively.
“This is an opportunity to bring voices together from across the province, especially those on the front lines and those with lived experience,” stated Druhan. She emphasized the importance of listening directly to individuals engaged in this vital work. By doing so, the government aims to identify actionable steps to create meaningful change in the community and improve outcomes for victims and survivors of gender-based violence.
This initiative forms part of the 2025-26 provincial budget, which allocates over $100 million to tackle issues related to gender-based and intimate partner violence. Such a significant financial commitment highlights the government's recognition of the urgency and importance of addressing these pressing social issues.
Leah Martin echoed Druhan’s sentiments, stating that the province is not starting from ground zero. “Advocates, professionals, and service providers have been doing this work for years in communities across Nova Scotia,” Martin noted. She emphasized that the input and expertise from these individuals will be crucial in guiding the government's efforts and in fostering collaboration to achieve substantial, lasting change for victims and survivors.
The newly established ministers' table is part of a comprehensive response to the ongoing challenges presented by gender-based and intimate partner violence in Nova Scotia. It is expected to convene at least four times a year, during which participants will engage in discussions regarding both prevention techniques and response strategies.
In summary, the creation of this ministers' table represents a significant step forward in Nova Scotia's continued effort to combat gender-based violence. By harnessing the perspectives of those directly affected and those who work with affected individuals, the government hopes to develop more effective measures and policies. The commitment of over $100 million signifies a robust investment toward creating safer communities in Nova Scotia.
