March 3, 2025 – We are devastated by yet another femicide in Nova Scotia—the eighth since October 2024 and the seventh linked to intimate partner violence. We extend our deepest condolences to the families, friends, and communities mourning this devastating loss. This tragedy is a stark reminder that gender-based violence remains a crisis in our communities.
Femicide is not an isolated tragedy; it is a systemic issue, and it is preventable. Yet, women in our province continue to face life-threatening violence, often at the hands of current or former partners. Every loss represents a failure to protect those most at-risk.
The Transition House Association of Nova Scotia (THANS) and our member organizations remain steadfast in our commitment to supporting survivors and their families. Across the province, our members provide emergency shelter, safety planning, advocacy, system navigation and other essential services to help women and children rebuild their lives free from violence. But frontline services alone cannot end femicide. We need an urgent, whole of society strategy to address the root causes of gender-based violence and prevent further loss of life.
While these actions alone will not address the root causes of gender-based violence, we call on all levels of government to respond immediately to this growing epidemic by:
- Increasing operational funding for organizations directly supporting victims and survivors, ensuring access to safety and stability for those impacted by violence.
- Implementing stronger accountability measures for justice and policing systems to improve responses to domestic and intimate partner violence.
- Meaningfully investing in comprehensive public education and prevention initiatives to challenge the societal attitudes that normalize violence against women.
We cannot allow these tragedies to continue. Addressing femicide requires more than words—it demands sustained action, investment, and commitment from all sectors of society.
If you or someone you know is experiencing violence, call or text the provincial support line toll-free at 1-855-225-0220 for confidential and anonymous support, or visit thans.ca for more resources. If you are in immediate danger, call 911.