The Canadian Council of Muslim Women (CCMW) launched its gender-based violence project titled Addressing Barriers for Muslim Women and Girls Facing GBV. This project developed a systemic change strategy and tools to address the barriers Muslim women face when dealing with gender-based violence (GBV). The project also provided service coordination for Muslim women experiencing GBV.
We recognize that it can be challenging for Muslim women facing gender-based violence to access services and supports that are cultually sensistive and that affirm their identities and experiences.
CCMW connects Muslim women facing gender-based violence with service providers, counsellors and therapists, and lawyers and legal services.
End GBV, Heal Together
CCMW launched a multilingual social media public awareness campaign to combat gender-based violence (GBV). Join the conversation and help keep Muslim women safe, informed, and empowered against gender-based violence. Click here to access the campaign in your language.
What is Gender-Based Violence?
It is the types of abuse that women, girls, and Two Spirit, trans and non-binary people are at highest risk of experiencing. It can take physical and emotional forms, such as: name-calling, hitting, pushing, blocking, stalking/criminal harassment, rape, sexual assault, control, and manipulation. GBV can take many forms:
Cyber
Physical
Sexual
Societal
Psychological
Emotional, and
Economic
Neglect, discrimination, and harassment can also be forms of GBV. GBV is preventable. – Women and Gender Equality Canada (WAGE)
This video is from a series, which was produced as part of CCMW’s efforts to amplify awareness around CCMW’s Emergency Bursary Fund during Ramadan 2025. The project was brought to life through a collaboration with FoxWing Productions Inc., with direction and writing by Hassan Babar, production and editing by Al-Raffay Mirza, and cinematography and colour grading by Khai Prendergast. Through storytelling and lived experiences, the series highlights gender-based violence does not look the same for every woman, but its impact is far-reaching, touching mental health, economic security, and personal safety.
Access Gender-Based Violence Support in Your Preferred Language
Are you a CCMW client going through a financial emergency?
You may qualify for the CCMW Emergency Bursary.
If you are going through unexpected financial difficulties because of violence that you have faced, legal fees or the Covid-19 pandemic, CCMW is here to help you. Our Emergency Bursary program provides urgent financial help for CCMW clients in these situations.
We consider each request based on the financial need of the client, the merits of the situation, and how severe the situation is.
Please review our CCMW Emergency Bursary Policy and Procedures prior to filling out the form; if your Application is missing supporting documents, it will not be considered.
Resources
Here are a few resources that may be helpful.
Case law: Mahr By Pamela Cross
Toolkit: Engaging Men & Boys to End Violence in the Family Project
Webinar: Understanding Canadian Muslim Women Seeking Family Law Counsel Seminars
Toolkit: Marriage Contract
Policy, Program and Practices Review Guide: Strengthening Supports and Services for Muslim Women and Girls Facing Gender-based Violence
Upcoming Webinars
Take a look at all of our upcoming Gender-Based Violence related webinars
Are you a legal professional or service provider?
CCMW LAW is seeking Ontario family lawyers committed to providing culturally responsive, trauma-informed, and client-centred services to Muslim women. To join our referral roster, please complete the form.
