Gender-Based Violence Prevention Support Plan & Trauma-Informed Toolkit
Empowering Mi’kmaq and Indigenous communities through culturally grounded and trauma-informed care.
This toolkit was developed to raise awareness and prevent Gender-Based Violence (GBV) through an Indigenous lens and a holistic approach that focuses on healing the mind, body, and spirit. It supports community-based, community-led solutions and is designed for those ready to lead this work.
It offers guidance for service providers and organizations through training, cultural sensitization, and trauma-informed practices. The toolkit also supports those affected by GBV, especially Indigenous women and 2SLGBTQQIA+ community members — by promoting safety, empowerment, and healing.
Originally created for Mi’kmaq communities, this resource is intended to be adapted and used across all Indigenous and rural communities. Make this toolkit your own.
This toolkit is funded by Women and Gender Equality Canada
Understanding
Gender-Based Violence
Art by Wabimeguil Fine
Types of Violence
Art by Cody Houle
Impacts of GBV
Contributing Factors
Prevention Strategies
Art by Tim Yanke
The Medicine Wheel
Art by Cody Houle
2SLGBTQQIA+ Communities
Ceremony & Spiritual Practice
Trauma-Informed Practice
Seven Sacred Teachings
Cultural Healing & Ceremony
Resources & Downloads
“A nation is not conquered until the hearts of its women are on the ground. Then it is done, no matter how brave its warriors or how strong it’s weapons. The fight for ending violence against Aboriginal women is not a women’s issue, it is integral to Aboriginal rights, sovereignty, nationhood, our rights to culture, our way of living and ultimately to our survival as a people.”
-Cheyenne Proverb