Sexual Assault in Women in Canada: What You Should Know

Sexual assault and harassment remain the most violent and persistent forms of violence against women all across the world that are often rooted in gender inequality. In Canada, the rate of sexual assault is constantly going up and it poses an alarming situation for women everywhere. The impact of these violent attacks on women goes beyond mere survival, and to deal with the aftermath of these assaults, Canadians are spending billions of dollars each year. 

It would be even surprising to note that a vast majority of these cases are not reported to the police. The data of the sexual assault is collected from social surveys to help to understand the scope of these crimes. 

Since it remains a growing concern in Canada and all over the world, it is important to stay informed and educated about the facts and common questions about sexual assault.

1. How Common is Sexual Assault in Canada?

• Even though a majority of sexual assault cases go unreported, each year Canada reports more than 460,000 cases of sexual assault. 
• Of every  1000 cases of sexual violence only 33 are reported to the police and from these 33 reported cases, only 3 lead to a conviction, 6 are prosecuted and 12 result in charges being laid.
• Among these cases of sexual assaults, 93% of victims are female and  99% of accused perps are male. 
• One in three females reported having faced some sort of sexual assault in their lifetime. 
• The rate of sexual assault victimization is five times higher for women under 35. 
• Women with disabilities are three times more likely to be forced into sexual activity through threats or force. 
• In 82% of the cases, the assault committed by the person is more likely to be someone known to the victim, this includes, their friend, family member, or acquaintance. 

2. Levels of Sexual Assaults in Canada

• Level one sexual assault involve little to no physical harm to the victim
• Level two sexual assault can include bodily harm, use of a weapon, or a threat
• Level three sexual assaults involve the threat to the life of the survivor, physical wounds, or disfigurement. 

Regardless of the level of sexual assault, most victims experience some serious mental health disorders such as anxiety, depression, stress, and suicidal tendencies.

3. Why are women held responsible for their own safety and are expected to not step out or avoid drinking to stay out of trouble?

In any case of a sexual assault, only one party is responsible, the perpetrator. No victim should be held accountable for assaults. Victim blaming is not only unfair but it also proves to be extremely dangerous for humankind. It will only encourage the perpetrators and will increase mental health issues among women. 

The research related to the use of alcohol and sexual assault only points towards the fact that the consumption of alcohol by the victim has nothing to do with sexual assault. It is often used to excuse the behavior of the abuser.

4. Why would someone sexually assault or harass a woman?

Sexual assault, like other forms of violence against women, is rooted in gender inequality. Through politics, religion, media, the workplace, and cultural norms, men and women get the wrong idea that men have more social power than women. This leads to the belief that men have the right to control women. This belief is not only wrong but is unlawful. This kind of mentality promotes violence against women which often results in sexual assaults.

5. How do you know if someone is consenting to sexual activity?

Understanding what consent means plays a huge role in understanding sexual assault. Any type of sexual activity done without the consent of either party is considered an assault. An affirmative “yes” is always what defines consent. 

Communication plays a key role in understanding the basic meaning of consent. You should be careful towards the needs of your partner and make an effort to know whether or not they are comfortable with engaging in sexual activity. Unless you receive a positive yes from them, you should refrain from trying to engage them in any kind of sexual activity. 

Federal abuse charges can result in a conviction on sex crimes can be severe and life-changing. In case you or someone you love wrongly file a claim against you then you must consult David Genis – a professional sexual assault lawyer Toronto.