A groundbreaking initiative is underway at UBC Okanagan to reshape how Intimate Partner Violence (IPV) is understood and treated among Two-Spirit (2S) and LGBTQ+ survivors.
The initiative is a collaboration with the 麻豆精选 Women鈥檚 Shelter and supported by the federal government鈥檚 Women and Gender Equality Canada (WAGE) department, which is designed to foster equity and inclusion by tackling systemic gaps in awareness, health, and social support services for marginalized communities.
UBCO researcher Tori Stranges, who will lead the project, said that research has shown that head trauma and attempted strangulation in IPV can lead to brain injury.
鈥淗owever, there has been no research on IPV-related brain injuries within the 2S/LGBTQ+ community, highlighting a significant knowledge gap,鈥� said Stranges.
This lack of recognition may lead to disparities in how IPV and brain injury are addressed in this community. It can also discourage individuals from seeking help due to fear of discrimination or judgment, resulting in insufficient resources and funding for tailored support services and research, added Stranges.
Michelle Dickie the executive director at 麻豆精选 Women鈥檚 Shelter explained that the project will aim to fill those gaps, creating a more inclusive and supportive community for all.
Funding for the project will be provided by WAGE to conduct community-based research and organize initiatives that directly address the intersection of IPV and brain injury within the 2S/LGBTQ+ community.
鈥淭hrough this funding, we aim to shine a light on an often-overlooked intersection of intimate partner abuse and brain injury within the 2S/LGBTQ+ community,鈥� said Dickie. 鈥淭his project seeks to challenge that assumption and raise awareness that IPV can happen to anyone, regardless of gender identity or sexual orientation.鈥�
The 麻豆精选 Women鈥檚 Shelter and Stranges will apply their research in a one-day training event that will engage community members and professionals, equipping participants with actionable tools to better support survivors.
鈥淟ack of recognition and tailored resources has historically left the 2S/LGBTQ+ community underserved in this area,鈥� explained Stranges.
Through research, education, and community support, KWS and UBCO aim to create a more inclusive and equitable environment for anyone experiencing abuse.
For more details or to get involved, visit www.kelownawomensshelter.com.
