It aims to give victims resources and confidence to pursue their legal options
Canada's Department of Justice has announced additional funding for projects that support survivors of workplace sexual harassment, among others, in Ontario.
Justice Canada is providing more than $6 million over five years for three projects, which support survivors of workplace sexual harassment, sexual assault, and intimate partner violence.
The project supporting survivors of workplace sexual harassment is called #AndMeToo, under the Barbra Schlifer Commemorative Clinic (BSCC), which would be receiving $374,879 over three years, 2021-22 to 2023-24.
The initiative aims to create comprehensive resources to inform victims of workplace sexual harassment in the hospitality and service industries of their rights, the community and legal supports available, as well as how to navigate the justice system and approach their employers.
It would also give more people who experienced workplace sexual harassment the confidence to understand and pursue legal options, according to the government announcement.
The other project receiving funding is the "It's My Choice Project," also an initiative from BSCC, which aims to enhance BSCC's capacity to support more survivors of sexual assault, intimate partner violence, and gender-based violence in Ontario.
Read more: Sexual harassment in the workplace is an 'epidemic,' says HR survey
The Family Court Support Worker Programme, administered by the Ontario Ministry of Children, Community, and Social Services, will also receive portion of the funding to further support victims of intimate partner violence in the family court process.
"These three projects are great examples of innovative approaches to ensuring that all Canadians can feel safe, supported and respected," said Justice Minister and Attorney General of Canada David Lametti in a statement.
The $6 million funding will be provided to the Ontario Ministry of Children, Community, and Social Services, as well as the BSCC.
"Providing support for organisation like the Barbra Schlifer Commemorative Clinic and the Ontario Ministry of Children, Community and Social Services is critical so that they can better support, empower, and keep victims of sexual and gender-based violence safe," said Lametti.
