What I'd really like to talk to you about, then, are our recommendations to you, which are at the end of our presentation. They are the following:
We really do need legislative and policy changes that meet Canada's international human rights obligations and prevent the separation of a mother from her children when a woman is experiencing family violence and abuse, has children who are Canadian citizens and is being forced to leave the country, as well as a co-application process for couples that ensures women are aware of their rights when they arrive in Canada.
We also need flexible funding models that include a national fund for women's shelters to access in order to address the needs of immigrant, refugee and trafficked women. Also, shelters need specially trained staff to work with immigrants and trafficked women and cover the basic needs of abused women without status, as well as housing programs geared to the needs of immigrant and refugee women fleeing violence.
We also need standardized programs, including translation services, settlement supports with both a rural and an urban focus, and programs that increase the awareness of men with respect to the effects of domestic violence upon themselves and their children.
Finally, we need a strong national campaign against racism, anti-immigration and Islamophobia, with tools that can be shared across agencies and programs. All Canadians should have the ability to feel safe and respected in their communities.
Thank you.