Yukon Faces Urgent Crisis in Family and Intimate Partner Violence

New statistics released by the Yukon Bureau of Statistics indicate a pressing crisis in family and intimate partner violence within the territory. The report, published in March 2024, reveals that Yukon has some of the highest per-capita rates of police-reported violence in Canada. Specifically, the data shows a **1.2-percent increase** in reported incidents of family violence and a **6.7-percent increase** in intimate partner violence from the previous year.

Advocates from local organizations, including the Victoria Faulkner Women’s Centre and the Yukon Status of Women Council, are emphasizing the need for enhanced support systems for victims. Megan Russell, executive director of the Victoria Faulkner Women’s Centre, expressed concern over the implications of these statistics. “Every number reflects someone in our community who didn’t feel safe in their own home,” she stated.

The challenges contributing to this crisis are compounded by the high cost of living and a limited housing supply in the Yukon. Russell noted the difficulty in interpreting the data. “It’s hard to know whether the increase in reported incidents of violence reflects an actual rise in violence or a greater willingness among victims to come forward,” she said.

Rae Lamache, executive director of the Yukon Status of Women Council, added that the statistics likely represent only a portion of the reality. “People are quite hesitant to come forward to the RCMP in small, tight-knit communities because there are concerns about confidentiality and privacy,” she explained. Lamache also highlighted fears among parents regarding potential involvement from Family and Children’s Services, which can deter victims from seeking assistance.

Yukon’s rates of family violence rank third-highest in Canada, following Nunavut and the Northwest Territories. Lamache pointed out that Indigenous women frequently bear the brunt of this violence, facing heightened risks of murder and disappearance. “It’s not a secret that Indigenous populations often experience intergenerational trauma, mental health challenges, and substance use issues,” she stated. She emphasized the cyclical nature of violence, mental health concerns, and substance abuse, illustrating the complex interplay of these factors.

Both organizations are closely monitoring the response from the newly elected Yukon Party government. During the recent election campaign, the Victoria Faulkner Women’s Centre posed questions regarding the candidates’ plans to address gender-based violence. Russell reported that the Yukon Party committed to ensuring victims receive necessary supports in a timely and respectful manner. “I interpret that as the door is open for conversations,” she remarked.

Advocates agree that immediate action is required to improve support systems for victims of violence. Lamache called for a variety of support options, including counseling, wraparound services, and stable housing solutions. Russell echoed this sentiment, advocating for increased legal advocacy, culturally safe services, and ongoing funding for gender equity and Indigenous-led organizations.

The new statistics paint a sobering picture of family and intimate partner violence in Yukon, underscoring the urgent need for comprehensive strategies to protect vulnerable individuals and foster a safer community.