Gender-based Violence (GBV) is one of the most pervasive forms of violence impacting people around the world, with certain populations being disproportionately affected such as Indigenous, racialized, immigrant and refugee women. This intersection of gender-based violence with settlement and integration as well as needs identified by service providers in the sector calls for more capacity and knowledge building, resources, and information for providers to incorporate into their services and practices.  

In response to these needs identified by the sector and in recognition of the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women on November 25, AMSSA has developed the E-Learning Course: Introduction to Intersections of Gender-Based Violence for the BC-Yukon Settlement and Integration Sector. 

November 25 not only marks global awareness of GBV, it is also the beginning of the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-based Violence, an annual international campaign which began in 1991 to speak out against gender-based violence and renew commitments to ending violence against women, girls, and 2SLGBTQI+ communities. For more resources and information on ways to join the campaign and get involved, visit 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-based Violence – Canada.ca. 

Course Overview 

This course aims to build the sector’s capacity in understanding and recognizing GBV in the broader newcomer context, within rural and small centre settlement contexts, and highlights ways to collaborate cross-sectorally for more effective and responsive supports.  

By the end of this e-learning course, participants will be able to: 

• Define gender-based violence (GBV) and recognize its forms in the newcomer and refugee context. 

• Identify key risk factors, barriers, and intersecting identities that shape GBV experiences. 

• Apply trauma- and violence-informed, culturally safe, and anti-oppressive principles in frontline work. 

• Respond safely and appropriately to GBV disclosures within professional boundaries. 

• Collaborate effectively with anti-violence and community partners to support survivors. 

Included in this e-learning course is a downloadable resource toolkit that offers a concise reference for frontline settlement staff in the BC-Yukon region on how to recognize, respond to, and refer cases of gender-based violence (GBV) among newcomers, refugees, and immigrants. It also provides regional crisis contacts, culturally specific supports, and practical tools to help staff respond safely and effectively while maintaining clear boundaries and personal well-being.   

This e-learning course is free. Upon successful completion of series of chapters and quizzes, participants will be able to obtain a certificate of completion.

Register here