A delegation from 50 women’s shelters and safe houses gathers outside Quebec’s National Assembly on Tuesday morning to demand stronger measures against conjugal violence. Intimate partner violence reports in Quebec have tripled over the past decade, with another woman killed last week. Police have yet to classify her death as a homicide linked to conjugal violence, but confirmation would make her the sixth victim this year.
Rising Demand and Budget Concerns
The Regroupement des maisons pour femmes victimes de violence conjugale, which represents shelters across nearly every region of the province, plans to present a list of demands to lawmakers ahead of the spring Quebec budget. The group highlights budgetary stagnation that threatens the health and lives of domestic violence victims.
This protest forms part of a broader campaign to better protect women and children. The organization criticizes the 2023, 2024, and 2025 budgets for overlooking the needs of help centers and shelters. “Despite their vital role and social impact, the government has been slow to recognize their true value,” the group states on its website. “Demand for help is surging, and shelters lack the capacity to respond.”
Specific Funding Requests
Advocates call for stable, recurring funding of $57 million over three years to maintain equitable support across all shelters and achieve pay equity. “We urge the government to fully embrace its responsibilities,” the Regroupement declares. “Shelters are not a luxury—they serve as a critical safety net and essential service for women and girls.”
Protest Details
Organizers describe Tuesday’s event as a silent rally featuring silhouettes of women and children to illustrate the toll of conjugal violence. The demonstration takes place at 11:30 a.m. in front of the National Assembly in Quebec City, followed by presentations of demands to representatives from various political parties.
Help for Victims
Individuals in immediate danger should dial 911. Those affected by family or intimate partner violence can access support through crisis lines and local services.
