Violence is a chronic social issue. Historical, systemic and social factors all contribute to the perpetuation of violence in our world today. The Committee believes that prevention programs and intervention services are most effective when they explore, expose and address causes of violence.

The nature of violence demands that prevention strategies openly address that violence is predominately about male violence against women and children. Anti-violence strategies must be proactive and community based. A coordinated response is necessary for the elimination of violence.

Historically, women and children have been socially, economically and legally disadvantaged in Canadian society and it is understood that attitudes and institutions that support, condone or perpetuate traditional power imbalances must be challenged if violence is to be eradicated. The Committee recognizes that victims/survivors of violence are primarily but not exclusively women and children.