Gender-based violence and the role of family doctors

On December 6, we mark the National Day of Remembrance and Action on Violence Against Women. This day honours the 14 women murdered in 1989 at Montreal’s École Polytechnique simply because they were women. These young women were pursuing careers in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM)—fields where women continue to face barriers.

The challenges women encounter in STEM mirror those faced by women in other fields, including medicine. Women make up a growing number of family physicians in Canada, yet they still face gender-based inequities, from pay gaps to workplace discrimination. Supporting women in STEM and medicine is critical to breaking down these barriers and creating a future where everyone can contribute their skills and knowledge fully.

Gender-based violence is a public health crisis with lasting impacts on individuals, families and communities. BC Family Doctors is committed to creating safer, more equitable spaces in medicine. Together, we can honour the lives lost and advocate for a future where all women, in every field, can thrive without fear.

Resources are available to support you in identifying and responding to patients experiencing gender-based violence. Training programs, clinical guidelines and local organizations can help you deliver compassionate, effective care to survivors.

If you or someone you know is in danger, help is available. Call 9-1-1 in emergencies, reach out to a local support organization or to the Physician Health Program. You are not alone.

Let’s take action to honour those we have lost and work toward a future free of violence and full of opportunity for all.