New campaign aims to bring awareness to gender-based violence in N.S.

An image from a new gender-based violence campaign in Nova Scotia. (Source: Government of Nova Scotia)

A new campaign in Nova Scotia hopes to help youth recognize the warning signs of gender-based violence in relationships.

Aimed at youth aged 12 to 20, the campaign aims to bring awareness to red flags such as manipulation, jealousy, and control.

“When the harm isn’t physical, we may not recognize it as abuse – but gender-based violence takes many forms,” said Leah Martin, minister responsible for the Advisory Council on the Status of Women, in a news release Monday.

“We want young people to be able to name these behaviours for what they are, trust their instincts and know that they deserve healthy, respectful relationships.”

The campaign will feature digital advertising on social media, gaming apps, and streaming platforms.

Signs and posters will also be placed in public areas such as schools and libraries.

“Youth are especially vulnerable to intimate partner violence as they develop their identity, independence and desire for connection,” said Kimm Kent, director and co-founder of Peer Outreach Support Services & Education, in the release.

“Too often, coercive and controlling behaviours are confused as ‘love.’ Creating awareness of the non-physical forms of intimate partner violence is essential in preventing violence and promoting healthier, safer relationships. This is a great campaign and sadly needed.”

The province says more than 3,000 instances of intimate partner violence were reported to police last year and about 79 per cent of the victims were women.

For more Nova Scotia news, visit our dedicated provincial page